endicott fall 2014
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endicott!F U A F l o r e n c e U n i v e r s i t y o f t h e A r t s & E n d i c o t t C o l l e g e
FALL 2014 Florence Italy
CULTURAL CULTURAL INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION TO ITALYTO ITALY
Travel Travel diariesdiaries
endicottcollege
A note from the staf f : A note from the staf f: Olimpia BozzaOlimpia Bozza
For me,
the opportunity to live
my country and explore it along with
the students is something that is invaluable and
really f ills my heart. Many of the places that I have visited
with the Fall14 students are places that I carry within me, in
my memory, places of my childhood and where I have created
important memories with my family. To be able to spend the pre-
semester week with students is really almost to donate a piece of me,
sharing the history of my family and that of my country. It ’s exciting
to repeat these familiar actions, which have shaped me for who I
am today, with a group of young people who live this experience
for the f irst time.I hope that I have been able to convey to
them something of who we are in Italy, and at the
same time I know I have learnt from them
more than they imagine!
Student Profi les
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
FALLFALL20142014
Rebecca BohlsI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE
IN ITALIAN CULTURE.
I love that I am able to visit a country that appreciates
wine for its quality. In the states, wine is only for
the people of age and so the culture turned into
the younger population abusing drinking instead of
appreciating it. In Italy I have been able to learn the
proper ways to drink and appreciate the quality. What
I have taken away from this is that drinking wine is a
social experience to bond with your companions.
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN
LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME.
My time spent at Forte dei Marmi was some of my
favorite during the pre-semester travel week. During
then, we didn’t see any ancient architecture, but I
was able to observe the current Italian culture. I was
able to take a breather from the busy travel days and
appreciate the little things that make me love Italy.
It was our fi rst chance to go out into the city and
converse with other Italians. The language barrier
was tough, but it is shocking how much English
Italians know. It makes me feel bad that in America
we aren’t taught all the other languages very well
and almost expect other countries to all know English.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I
WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS…
On the fi rst day in Rome. We had free time and I
was determined to fi nd Giolitti, the gelato place
recommended by my high school teacher. We got lost
around the Pantheon and asked for directions three
times, but it taught me that I can accomplish so much,
how independent I’ve become, and ways to overcome
the language barrier.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT, IN MY
OPINION, ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN
CULTURE IS…
Italy is everyday walking through streets of history,
while taking the time to appreciate the quality of
what is around and embracing the companionship of
others..
T H E C O L O S S E U M
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Danielle BoucherI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO.
ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE.
These places were magical, to me. Something
you would see in a fairy tale or a Disney movie.
Flowers were draping from the balconies of homes
and everywhere along the street and across the
vast landscape of the more rural areas in Italy. The
architecture was a very old style, balancing the beauty
in the colorful plants. It only fi t that the people who
lived in this area could not speak a word of English.
They were simple, with a passion for their home, and
every part of these towns tied together perfectly.
IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY
CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION
OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS.
When I stepped into line of sight to this garden, I was
not expecting anything I saw. The beauty of such large
mosaic pieces just screamed love in every section.
The gardens I went to were traditional, up-kept
gardens, leaving every hedge and branch trimmed
perfectly. But going to Il Giardino dei Tarocchi let go
of the traditional sense of “garden”, letting go of
expectations and going against the grain. I felt like a
child again, with a huge sense of wonder.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE
SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK
HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL
BECAUSE...
I felt more like a local at the start because I already had
a basic understanding of social etiquette, manners at
a restaurant, and simple words to communicate with
the community.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY
WAS...
The food. I have only heard how good it was, but now
I can know for myself that it is, in fact, the best food I
have ever tasted.
C A P R A R O L A
FALLFALL20142014
Rebekah Capece B u s i n e s s
ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY.
REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME.
Rome is a city that everyone needs to visit. Looking
at pictures and reading about the history does not do
this magnifi cent city justice. The Colosseum and St.
Peter’s Basilica were my favorite places we visited.
The Colosseum was so fascinating because of how
intact the amphitheater was after all of these years.
St. Peter’s Basilica was amazing and so beautiful. I
am a Roman Catholic so I really enjoyed the time we
spent inside the Basilica.
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN
LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME.
Forte dei Marmi is absolutely beautiful. I never
thought I would fi nd myself at a beach surrounded
by mountains. The views of the mountains from the
beach were breathtaking. After spending time in both
Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio you could instantly tell
that this was where Italians go on holiday.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE
SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK
HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL
BECAUSE...
I was able to familiarize myself with the Italian
lifestyle and fi gure out the best way to adjust to living
in a different country. By the time I arrived in Florence,
it immediately started to feel like my second home.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT, IN MY
OPINION, ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN
CULTURE IS…
The country of Italy and its culture can be illustrated
through fashion and food. Italy is the fashion capital
of the world and home to the best food I have ever
tasted.
T H E C O L O S S E U M
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Kaitlin Desbiens I n t e r i o r D e s i g n
ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY.
REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME.
Rome was a great place to start our orientation for our
soon to be semester abroad in Florence. The history
of Rome has been maintained so well throughout
the city, and being an interior design major seeing
the iconic Roman architecture was a dream come
true. Aside from being so in love with the history of
Rome, I felt like the Roman locals made me feel very
welcome. The only thing I felt I needed to adjust to
was the time zone.
CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO.
ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE.
Although Caprarola was a small village, it was what
I had always pictured a true Italian village to be. I
found a family-run restaurant and ordered my fi rst
Italian meal. The Gardens that lead to the hunting
grounds were the most beautiful place we visited
throughout orientation. Caprarola was my favorite
stop during orientation; it was refreshing being in a
smaller town after visiting Rome for two days.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE
SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK
HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL
BECAUSE…
The travel week defi nitely helped me feel more
comfortable with living abroad because I felt more
knowledgeable about Italy. Being able to say I’ve
seen so many places in Italy after just one week made
me feel like I had more of an advantage over other
study abroad students.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION
ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS...
In my opinion I would describe Italian culture as
refreshing, because to me it is very refreshing
compared to what I have grown up with in the
US. Italians are very relaxed and care more about
personal relationships and face to face contact which
is refreshing to experience.
R O M E
FALLFALL20142014
Haley DiPietro L i b e r a l S t u d i e s E d u c a t i o n
IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY
CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION
OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS.
Il Giardino dei Tarocchi was one of my favorite
places that we visited. It had a very modern feel to
it, yet can still be compared to the more traditional
Italian Gardens. Like Bomarzo, the sculptures were
all different and unexpected, but made out of
nontraditional materials. The variety of textures,
colors and materials helped to make each piece
interesting. Each sculpture was different from the
others and had its own personal style.
BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS
OF THE ETRUSCANS.
The Etruscans were not a topic I was highly familiar
with before this trip. I am used to learning about
something in school, and then going to experience it.
Getting the chance to learn about them while standing
in front of their ruins was a whole new experience. I
was surprised by how important the after life was
to them and how well built and preserved their
belongings were. I was also surprised by how small
the Etruscans were. I am considered short, but am
taller then a full grown Etruscan male!
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I
WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS…
Trying all of the new foods. During group dinners I was
served many foods that I had not previously tried, but
realized how delicious they were after trying them.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY
WAS...
Something that affi rmed my expectations about Italy
is how fresh all of the food is. All of the fruits and
vegetables I have bought are so fresh and delicious.
T A R O T G A R D E N
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Christine DonohoeI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
ROME 3000 YEARS OF ART & HISTORY:
REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME.
As I was traveling to Rome for the very fi rst time, I
felt apprehensive and exhilarated. I had no clue
what to expect. I had seen images of the incredible
architectural wonders that exist in Rome, but was
naive to their massive size and intricate details.
While walking the streets of Rome, I felt as though I
had traveled back in time. I would see large piazzas,
fountains, or a monstrous ancient structure with
every turn I took. Each new ruin I came across, I
became more excited for the next. With my map in
hand, I felt as if I was on a treasure hunt for ancient
Roman ruins scattered throughout the bustling city.
BOLGHERI: THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE
IN ITALIAN CULTURE.
While in Bolgheri, I observed that wine is a very
signifi cant part of Italian culture. Italian vineyard
workers are very meticulous in creating great
wines. As a result, Italians honor their hard work by
appreciating wine paired with a delicious meal. True
Italian food is always seasonal and prepared fresh.
Italians use mealtime as a social time to spend with
family and/or friends. They take their time to enjoy a
multi course meal, and great company.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT, IN MY
OPINION, ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN
CULTURE IS…
Italy is a beautiful country fi lled with many individuals
who take pride in its art, cuisine, fashion, and rich
history.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE
SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK
HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL
BECAUSE…
The travel week exposed me to a lot of Italian culture
and language. I believe it played a signifi cant role in
enabling me to ease comfortably into life in a new
country.
B O L G H E R I
FALLFALL20142014
Melissa DubeA r t
CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO.
ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE.
These three places include statues, fountains and
buildings to highlight the beautiful nature around
them. They include both nature that was planted
and nature that was already there. Water was an
important part of these gardens because it adds
movement and sound, so fountains and water chains
were very common. Nature was also used to frame
buildings or statues on the grounds, creating very
symmetrical lines in the layout of the gardens.
BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS
OF THE ETRUSCANS.
TThe Etruscans left behind many tombs in their village
right on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. They built
them in such a way that they were able to survive all
of these years. They were excavated and many were
found to be in very good condition. They also found
some traces of items, like chariots, in the tombs,
leading us to believe that they buried their dead with
possessions to help them in the next life.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE SEMESTER.
THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME
FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL BECAUSE:
By the time we arrived in Florence I felt like I already
knew a lot about the culture.
The travel week adjusted me to the Italian ways of
life.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE
ABOUT ITALY WAS...
Rome changed my expectation of Italian cities. I
pictured a peaceful, low-key city, not something as
busy as it turned out to be.
I T A L I A N G A R D E N W A T E R W O R K S
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Lauren Ecker I n t e r i o r D e s i g n
ROME 3000 YEARS OF ART & HISTORY:
REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME.
As a designer, Rome was incredible to see. Ancient
Rome was the foundation of architecture so standing
amongst so much history was very humbling. My very
memory of Rome was turning the corner and walking
up to the Pantheon. At that moment I had to step
back, put down my camera, and just take it all in and
realize where I actually was. As a designer it was so
important for me to have that moment in Rome and
take in all that ancient Rome has to offer.
IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY
CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION
OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS.
Il Giardino dei Tarocchi, or the Tarot Garden, was also
one of my favorites. The designer had free range and
a blank palette for h er vision and it was very cool to
see it come to life. Walking up to the gardens, I had
a moment of “what the heck is this place?” However,
using all of the senses to touch and feel all of the
different patterns and colors was very stimulating for
a designer. I think we all could relate to this garden.
Sometimes you just want to use every pattern in the
book to make one crazy mess of art.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE
SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK
HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL
BECAUSE...
The fi rst week helped me get an understanding of
food traditions in Italy. We learned about the right
time to eat the bread, how much food you actually
need to consume, and how great Italian food is
compared to America.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT, IN MY
OPINION, ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN
CULTURE IS…
Italian culture revolves around food and the
importance of preparing and eating the food with
family and friends.
R O M E
FALLFALL20142014
Mallory FarleyH o s p i t a l i t y M a n a g e m e n t
CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO.
ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE.
Caprarola was one of my favorite places we visited
during our pre-semester travel week, it’s really a
place you don’t want to miss. I decided to take a turn
down a road that didn’t look like much, where I found
a quaint little coffee and gelato shop, where I tried
my fi rst espresso from Italy, and probably my favorite.
The worker at the shop proceeded to ask if we had
seen the church, got a key and let us in one of the
most beautiful churches I have seen. This thoughtful
act made my week, and I will never forget that little
church.
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN
LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME.
The coastal towns we visited were some of the
most beautiful places we stopped along the way to
Firenze. Many of these towns are inhabited by people
working in the marble industry. Also these towns
are very touristy with other Italians for leisure time.
So the atmosphere is much laid back compared to
being in Roma or Firenze. I had some of the best
Mediterranean food you can eat, saw amazing views
of the Apennines and the Mediterranean Sea.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE SEMESTER.
THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME
FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL BECAUSE…
Traveling from Roma to Florence introduced me to the
Italian culture. It helped me learn to appreciate the
things that I never have before. Once we arrived in
Florence, I felt at home.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION
ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS...
Italy is an absolutely beautiful country with an
incredible history, and a culture that will teach you
how to appreciate the little things in life.
C A P R A R O L A
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Teagan FortuneI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY
CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION
OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS.
When I was told we were going to one last garden in
our travels I was most defi nitely not expecting what
the Tarocchi garden had in store for me. Pulling into
the parking lot at the very beginning and seeing
a sea of colors exploding over the treetops I could
not wait to actually go inside. I was amazed by how
contemporary all the designs of the sculptures and
buildings were. To think that someone had designed
an entire building out of tiny pieces of tiles and glass
was mind blowing. Not just a building but a piece
of art that you can step inside of. At fi rst I was kind
of taken back by all of the eccentric designs but as
I spent more and more time in the garden I grew to
love and appreciate each and every piece that was
there.
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN
LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME.
Visiting the carnival was so amazing to be able to
experience an event that is so important to the locals.
Seeing how much time and creativity goes into each
small aspect to pull it all together in the end and
have a spectacular show was incredible. I was not
expecting the fl oats to be at such a grand scale and
have such intricate details, so that blew me away.
Also, being able to spend a little free time in Forte dei
Marmi was very rewarding because it was a beautiful
town that was not too populated in tourists but it
had more of an Italian home town feel to it. I loved
going to the beach. I will never forget one couple that
came up to us after over hearing us speaking English.
They said they hadn’t heard anyone speaking English
at the beach all day and they wished us the best in
our studies in Italy. Right there I felt welcomed and
I knew these next four months will be an experience
of a lifetime.
V I A R E G G I O C A R N I V A L - A F L O A T
FALLFALL20142014
Brianna FullamA r t
BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS
OF THE ETRUSCANS.
Baratti was breathtaking with its rolling hills and view
of the sea. When we walked through the gravesite
and into the tombs, I really felt like I was with the
ancient Etruscan people. I could imagine the bustling
harbor and the people walking around in robes. I
will always remember how I felt when I walked into
the tomb. The fact that you had to crouch down and
walk down a long tunnel to get inside was a spiritual
experience that transported me into the past.
BOLGHERI: THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE
IN ITALIAN CULTURE.
Our day at Bolgheri was the perfect day. Beautiful
weather, food, wine and company. It amazed me at
how precise and careful the people at the vineyard
were at their job. They cared for the grape vines like
they were their children, in fact the lady we met kept
calling the grapes as a “him”. I enjoyed learning how
to correctly taste wine immensely. The whole process
is an art, from growing the vines all the way down to
tasting the wine.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE
THAT I WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS...
I will always remember how much we did in a day
during the travel week. I will take it as a personal
lesson that anything is possible when you work hard
to get there.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE
ABOUT ITALY WAS...
Something that affi rmed my expectations, maybe
even exceeded them was the beauty and love that
I have found in so many historical, spiritual, and
creative places that I have seen.
E T R U S C A N S I T E
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Lauren GallagherA r t
ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY.
REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME.
Rome was my fi rst taste of Italy that I will treasure
forever. I was constantly being taken away by the
insanely complex architecture surrounding me at
all times; its elegance and sheer size was more
than enough to make one at a loss for words. Our
fi rst destination on day two in Rome will forever
be ingrained in my mind. Stepping into the piazza
where St. Peter’s Basilica is located in Vatican City
was one of the most surreal experiences of my life.
A feeling of beauty, stillness and peace washed over
me instantaneously while taking in the grandeur of
my surroundings.
BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS
OF THE ETRUSCANS.
Stepping into ancient burial grounds was creepy to
say the least but it was also a way for my mind to
open up and fi nally grasp the idea of how far human
civilizations go back in history. It was a reminder that
there is a connection between all civilizations because
we all walk on the same earth and although, we have
different rituals and traditions, there are still many
links between us. Walking in the footsteps of the
Etruscans and grasping what I could about these still
mysterious people helped me fi nd an interest in these
subjects that I never contained before.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE SEMESTER.
THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME
FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL BECAUSE…
I was already accustomed to the new time schedule
and the crash course in culture and customs prevented
me from experiencing any serious culture shock.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION
ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS...
A slower and more appreciative way of life.
R O M E
FALLFALL20142014
Chelsea GlynnI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO.
ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE.
Caprarola was a beautiful small town on a hillside. I
enjoyed walking down the quiet, narrow streets and
meeting some of the locals. It was a very peaceful
place without any tourists. It was two very different
experiences walking through the gardens of Villa
Lante and Bomarzo. I really enjoyed Villa Lante, it
was full of beautiful greenery shaped into spirals
and detailed fountains. Bomarzo was not what I
was expecting. I was under the impression it was
another garden but it was a forest fi lled with monster
sculptures. I liked how each sculpture had a story and
along the way the sculptures refl ected the theme of
heaven and hell.
BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS
OF THE ETRUSCANS.
The archaeological tour through the ancient Etruscan
burial grounds had so much history. My favorite part
was walking into one of the tombs and seeing how
they buried their loved ones. I was surprised how
much history was still left. The Etruscans built their
tombs with stones and soil and some of them are
still there today. It was very interesting to see these
grounds and learn about the Etruscans.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I
WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS...
Facing my fear of fl ying. I’ve been scared of planes for
a few years now. It was a personal achievement for
me overcoming my fear to be able to come to Italy.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION
ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS...
Their appreciation of food, art and history. I have
noticed Italians have so much respect for their meals
and where they’re from.
C A P R A R O L A - V I L L A F A R N E S E
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Sabina GrassoI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY.
REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME.
America, though fi lled with history and culture, cannot
begin to compete with a city like Rome. Arriving in
a place fi lled with architecture and history from far
before America was thought to have even existed
was one of the most mind-blowing experiences I
have ever had. Walking into Vatican City and being
surrounded by colossal columns was indescribable,
and taking our fi rst offi cial tour in St. Peter’s Basilica
only further emphasized the impressive nature of
Rome.
IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY
CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION
OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS.
Visiting Il Giardino dei Tarocchi was as equally as
alluring as it was bizarre as it was enthralling. Arriving
to what seemed to be the middle of nowhere and
stumbling upon this glittering, fantastical scene was
the last thing our unexpecting group of American girls
had foreseen. Although the concept of this attraction
was eccentric, and at times even a little unsettling,
the incredibly beautiful effect that was created will
certainly stand out in our memories of our week.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE
SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK
HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL
BECAUSE…
Spending the week traveling was certainly benefi cial
prior to arriving in Florence, and became evident
when the other students arrived. While they were
experiencing the same overwhelming emotions that
we had the week before, we felt as though we had
settled in, and could manage the culture with more
ease.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I
WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS...
My fi rst experience swimming in the Mediterranean
while visiting the Etruscan tombs was by far my
most memorable experience. It was my moment
of realization that I was, after all the anticipation,
fi nally in Italy, and I felt completely enveloped in the
countries’ beauty, culture, and history. It will forever
be my most eye-opening, magnifi cent memory of
our week.
V A T I C A N C I T Y
FALLFALL20142014
Kellie KerriganH o s p i t a l i t y M a n a g e m e n t
CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO.
ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE.
Caprarola, Villa Lante and Bomarzo were a great next
stop from Rome because we went from historical
site seeing to seeing beautiful gardens and castles.
Moving away form the bustling city to see the
gardens were very breathtaking because it was a new
experience of Italy that we had not come across yet.
These three gardens were so spectacular seeing the
different architecture and nature that were involved
to create these pieces.
IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY
CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION
OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS.
Il Giardino dei Tarocchi was something I would never
imagine seeing while in Italy. We drove down a long
countryside road and ended up in one of the wildest
and craziest places I have ever seen. There were many
different types of structures that could be found on a
Tarot card. The way that the creators mixed the Italian
countryside and gardens into this contemporary
structure amazes me.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I
WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS...
Learning that I have to adapt to where I am and be
respectful of that.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION
ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS…
A phrase that illustrates Italy and Italian Culture is
walk to explore. This is because you have to take it
all in.
V I L L A L A N T E
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Kimberly KnowlesA r t
CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO.
ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE.
Experiencing different forms of Italian garden
landscapes showed extravagance in different ways,
from subtle mazes and fountains in Caprarola to the
symmetry of the Villa Lante. The “monster gardens”
were the most impressive, with monsters and men
emerging from the bedrock marble itself. It played
on a combination of soft natural foliage and solid
towering forms, and captivated the mind as well
as the eye with a mythic narrative about a journey
through purgatory.
IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY
CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION
OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS.
Our visit to Il Giardino dei Tarocchi was like going to
an amusement park inside someone’s imagination.
The colors and whimsical shapes of all the mosaic
forms were beautiful and so lively; wandering
through them was a great follow up to many days
only experiencing art in formal settings. It was an
inspiring departure from the classical to the modern,
and showed a different outdoor art form than the
previous gardens we had seen.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION
ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS…
Slowing down to see the beauty all around you.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE
ABOUT ITALY WAS...
I expected things to be different; I did not realize how
much I would change for the better, learning to take
each day slowly and enjoy it sunrise to sunset.
T H E T A R O T G A R D E N
FALLFALL20142014
Stephanie LoweI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS
OF THE ETRUSCANS.
I enjoyed this visit, mainly because we had learned
so much about Etruscan Barrow Tombs in our art
history courses back home that seeing them up close
and actually being able to go inside of one was very
interesting. So much emphasis was placed on life
after death that these tombs were more signifi cant
than their actual habitations during a lifetime. Going
to the beach made the trip seem real; that I wasn’t
just a tourist is Rome but that I was actually visiting
places in Italy that not everybody would have a
chance to see.
BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE
IN ITALIAN CULTURE.
Probably one of my favorite stops during the week, I
really liked Bolgheri and the winery because I learned
how to appreciate the pairing of food and wine rather
than just eating and drinking as fast as possible.
When you slow down to really taste everything and
understand what you’re eating and why, it becomes
that much more signifi cant. In addition, hearing
about where each type of grape grows and why
based on season and weather makes learning about
the process interesting.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I
WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS...
When I was forced to learn how to live on my own
without the support of parents or family. I had to
be smart about choices and act according to instinct
rather than curiosity.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED MY
EXPECTATIONS ABOUT ITALY WAS....
Seeing that everybody wants to make you feel
welcome and at home in their country, and a lot of
people will go out of their way to make things easier
for you, which made the transition a lot easier.
B A R A T T I
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Amanda MersereauI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO.
ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE.
Caprarola was such a small little hilltop village but it
was so beautiful! The octagonal palace at the top was
particularly extraordinary. The history behind every
room and wing of the palace was incredible and the
garden was gorgeous. I enjoyed being in this small
town after being in the large city of Rome, it really
showed two different sides of Italy in the same day.
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN
LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME.
Before coming to Italy, I didn’t know they had their
own carnival, and it was so interesting to learn about
the festival and the extensive process behind the
giant fl oats! Some of them were so intricate and the
political and ironic stories and messages behind them
were powerful and funny. I wish I could attend one
of the carnivals myself to fully appreciate the art the
way it is meant to be shown.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE
SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK
HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL
BECAUSE...
I was exposed to so much about Italian culture and
traditions before even arriving in Florence, which
made me feel more prepared and educated about my
new home.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE
ABOUT ITALY WAS...
The architecture! Learning about Italian architecture
and then seeing it in person really allowed me to
appreciate the quality of each amazing structure.
C A P R A R O L A
FALLFALL20142014
Andrea MountfordC o m m u n i c a t i o n
BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS
OF THE ETRUSCANS.
Standing in a grave bed in the middle of an ancient
tomb was surprisingly calming and refl ective, of
course that was after I got over the fact that I was
standing in a grave bed in the middle of an ancient
tomb… with spiders. The Etruscans’ architectural
abilities were incredible with the tools and supplies
available for their time, although I feel bad belittling
these people based on their era, I wouldn’t know how
to begin building those tombs in current day. I was
fascinated with the effort they put into burial sites,
shown by their longevity, and not their homes, which
no longer stood.
BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE
IN ITALIAN CULTURE.
Wine is seen as an art form here in Italy, which is a
new concept for me because it is not treated with
the same respect in America. The care in which the
owner talked about each grape, and how closely the
vineyard has to be monitored showed how much
passion is put in every bottle. Tasting it seemed like
even more of a process than making it. I never knew
how many steps went into a simple sip. The love they
have for a glass of wine at dinner makes you want to
be a part of the culture, to take in with such interest
every detail and to fully appreciate what effort has
been exerted for your dining pleasure.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I
WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS...
Being unsure and lost and being okay with it. Many
times I wasn’t sure if what I was doing, which would
be seen as polite in my county, might be taken as rude
here. Near the end of the trip I realized those cultural
differences were always going to be there, I just had
to learn to be okay with it.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE
ABOUT ITALY WAS...
Their love of food. It is a strong standing stereotype
that Italians are quite the foodies, but after my fi rst 3
hour meal I realized how true it really is.
C A P R A R O L A
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Courtney MussellI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE
IN ITALIAN CULTURE.
In Bolgheri, we were able to see the whole idea of
“farm to table” so clearly. Visiting the vineyard and
being walked through the process of making delicious
wine, allowed us to see all of the work that goes into
creating delicious, authentic Italian wine. Tenuta Di
Vaira also served us beautiful appetizers included
different meats, cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables,
spreads, and of course, wine. Learning how to taste
wine made us all feel very Italian.
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN
LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME.
Being guided through all of the history was all so
incredible, but in Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi it
was refreshing to be able to explore on our own; then
again, spending time at the beach with great friends
is a perfect way to spend any day. I felt as if I was able
to absorb Italian culture on my own for the fi rst time.
Visiting carnival pieces and the marble quarry were
unforgettable experiences.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE
SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK
HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL
BECAUSE…
I knew so little before arriving in Italy and immersing
oneself in the culture and language is the best way to
start developing your sense of surroundings
in a new place.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE
ABOUT ITALY WAS...
Recognizing that I would eventually feel at home
here, which had been a concern before our orientation
week.
F R E S H F R U I T I N B O L G H E R I
FALLFALL20142014
Sarah NarburghI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY
CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION
OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS.
As we approached Il Giardino dei Tarocchi, I was
instantly overwhelmed by all of the vibrant colors and
eye-catching materials. The artist of this sculpture
garden, Niki de Saint Phalle, certainly succeeded at
portraying tarot cards because I felt mentally and
spiritually connected to it. I suddenly felt like a young
child again as I leaped from one sculpture to another
in complete amazement. I loved how the imaginative
garden contrasted with the traditional views of the
vast Tuscan landscape.
BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS
OF THE ETRUSCANS.
The archaeological park of Baratti and Populonia
opened my eyes to the life of the Etruscans. As we
entered the small tomb, I felt like I had traveled back
in time. The construction appeared effortless and the
presence of natural light was incredible. At one point
I stood in an ancient funerary bath, which was made
of weathered stone. Although some of my classmates
were uncomfortable with this, I felt like I was truly
experiencing Etruscan history.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE
SEMESTER. HOW THE TRAVEL WEEK HELPED
ME FEEL LIKE AN ITALIAN.
I felt signifi cantly more prepared to live in Florence
compared to my roommates that didn’t have an
orientation week. I was adjusted to using a map (not a
GPS), using Italian phrases, and walking everywhere.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE
ABOUT ITALY WAS...
The moments our orientation leaders and bus driver
encouraged us to learn Italian words. In Italy they
have the patience to teach foreigners their native
language.
E T R U S C A N T O M B
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Hannah PicarielloI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO.
ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE.
When I used to think of Italy before I came here places
like Caprarola were what I imagined it to be like, quiet
rustic little towns. When we went to the palace and
gardens at Caprarola it was amazing, the gardens
are breathtaking and everything about them was
perfect. When we visited Villa Lante, the amazement
continued. Each garden is unique and beautiful in its
own way. Visiting the gardens was my favorite part
of the fi rst week. There is something so serene and
peaceful about them. Bomarzo was a completely
different garden than the fi rst two that we visited, it
was defi nitely interesting to see all of the big stone
sculptures but I liked the way each of them had a
story and how the whole park had a story to it.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I
WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS…
I would call this entire journey a personal growth
experience. I can’t really name one defi ning moment,
but I notice so many changes in myself that are so
important. Every day I feel more confi dent in myself
and this experience, I am becoming more independent
each day and learning so many things about myself. I
will forever be grateful for this opportunity.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE
ABOUT ITALY WAS...
When coming to Italy, I expected to encounter great
food and a slower paced lifestyle. The food was better
than I expected. The lifestyle here is anything but
slow; people are swarming the streets at all hours of
the day and walk with a purpose. Italians defi nitely
take time to appreciate things more but their lifestyle
is pretty modern.
V I L L A L A N T E
FALLFALL20142014
Sydney RidderH o s p i t a l i t y M a n a g e m e n t
ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY.
REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME.
A city older than time itself fi lled with art, religion,
history, evolution and reform. Rome is the capital
of Italy and known for its eternal beauty. Inside its
walls holds some of the greatest masterpieces to
ever been seen to this world. The Spanish Steps, the
Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Castel
Sant’Angelo, Bridge of Angels and The Vatican City
are some of the beauties this city holds. When fi rst
entering Rome, I was hit with an overwhelming
feeling of excitement and this sensation of being
in a city I have grown up learning about. Being an
American in Rome was like trying to fi nd a needle
in a haystack. Things are in different languages,
street signs all look the same, and personal space is
nonexistent. I didn’t know where to fi nd the nearest
Starbucks nor how to order a panino, but that didn’t
mean that the citizens of Rome weren’t willing to
help. Italians would help me fi nd my way, explain
the ways of their lives, and show me that it doesn’t
matter what language you speak as long as you try.
BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE
IN ITALIAN CULTURE.
Traveling into the Prove of Livorno, we entered
Bolgheri. A town known for its food and amazing
wine. At the vineyard of Tenuta DiVaira, we
experienced traditional wine making and tasting,
along with traditional pairings. These food and wine
pairings allowed us to understand the real meaning
of food and wine together. The combination of the
small meals with wine in between bites allowed for
us to experience more fl avors. We were able to taste
all the fl avors of the meals and the wine. This taught
us that Italians drink wine with meals to enjoy more
fl avors and the culture.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I
WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS...
Being able to travel a week early to learn about the
culture of Italian society if only a little. It was amazing
to be able to see so many different parts of Italian
culture in a short amount of time to further my
understanding on this country.
R O M E
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Laura VarjabedianI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY.
REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME.
Rome, a vast and intriguing city of history, art,
architecture, and society, immediately had me in awe
upon arrival. I was taken aback by the beauty and
complexity in the buildings simply passing them on
the street, not to mention the sites that we toured. So
much of this city I have only read and learned about,
that seeing immense and powerful structures such as
the Coliseum, Pantheon, and history enriched areas
like St. Peter’s Square left me completely speechless.
An understanding of ancient Roman history really
began to give me an appreciation for the country of
Italy, and I had only visited the one city so far. The
power of the history and the evolution of society in
Rome was setting into my mind as an enriching and
interesting realization.
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN
LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME.
The description of the Cittadella del Carnevale and
viewing of the celebration throughout the years was
rich in artistic talent and tradition. The essence and
dedication put into the festival is similar to events we
have in America and I found it extremely neat to learn
the political statements and motives of the entries!
Enjoying the leisure and lifestyle by the water, as well
as the historic tradition of beach life in Forte dei Marmi
and the Tuscan region was truly a treat.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE I WILL
FOREVER REMEMBER WAS...
Losing myself in the beauty and religious power
of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican. I was moved
beyond words.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION
ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS...
That it is built around the relationships of the society
and their ancestral connection to Italian history and
its traditions.
I T A L I A N A T T H E B E A C H
FALLFALL20142014
Courtney WilsonA r t
ROME 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY.
REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME:
Rome is an ancient city fi lled with architecture, Rome is an ancient city fi lled with architecture,
breathtaking art and amazing history. Being the
fi rst stop of our travel week I was overwhelmed
and wonderstruck by Rome. We visited places that I
have always dreamed of seeing. The Vatican and St.
Peter’s Basilica was my favorite because of the fi ne
architecture, Michelangelo’s Pieta being my fi rst piece
of famous art work to see, and it had such a religious
meaning to me.
IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY
CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION
OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS.
The Tarot Garden was the most unique garden of
the gardens we visited. I enjoyed the contemporary
stylized approach to the place. The glass mosaic
sculptures were innovative and interactive. I found
it the easiest to explore freely and get lost within a
more creative individual imagination. This garden
is a creation of imagination amongst a history of
structured Italian Gardens. There is no exact pathway
to follow as there is no start and end to the garden. It
is an exploration of the individual’s journey.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE
SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK
HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL
BECAUSE...
I was able to become aware of the different cultural
aspects of art, food and wine. I was able to understand
the history and why Italians value it.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY
EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE
ABOUT ITALY WAS...
Witnessing everyday Italians living a simple lifestyle
appreciated through togetherness, family and food.
S K E T C H B Y C O U R T N E Y W I L S O N
endicottendicottCOLLEGECOLLEGE
Laura WunschI n t e r i o r D e s i g n
BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE
IN ITALIAN CULTURE
The wine tasting in Bolgheri was one of my favorite
things that the group did throughout the week.
Learning everything that goes into one bottle of wine
and how important certain steps are when making
wine made me appreciate the wine so much more.
Also, the food that was paired with the wine was
amazing and made me notice how different wines
pair with certain foods better than others. Being in
Bolgheri and learning all that we did showed me how
much more the Italian Culture appreciates their food.
In America, food is rushed and wine is drunk with no
gratitude. After being lucky enough to experience
this visit in Bolgheri, I plan on bringing the value of
food and wine in the Italian Culture back to the United
States with me and sharing it with everyone so they
realize how important the appreciation is.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I
WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS...
When a little Italian lady approached us in
Caprarola speaking nothing but Italian. None of
us knew what she was saying or how to reply.
Someone who spoke a little English tried to help us to
understand, but the only thing any of us really got out
of it was that she told us to stop being so timid and
shy. When I understood what she said, it immediately
made me realize that as a group we all walk following
what we are told, but don’t fully expose ourselves to
the Italian Culture. Ever since this moment, I have tried
to be apart as much as I can and discover as much of
the culture as possible while I am in Italy. There’s so
much to see and learn in every part of Italy and time
shouldn’t be wasted being shy or questioning. The
lady made me realize how important it is to immerse
yourself into the surroundings if you want to learn
and understand the culture in the fullest and from
that point on, that is what I did.
C A P R A R O L A
endicott fall 2014
endicottcollege
Cultural Intro Pre-Semester WeekCultural Intro Pre-Semester WeekAugust 20August 20thth - August 27 - August 27thth
FALL 2014FALL 2014
CREDITSPhoto Credit: Endicott Students Fall 2014 - Profile pics by Silvia ManciniPhoto Credit: Endicott Students Fall 2014 - Profile pics by Silvia Mancini
Production Coordinator: M. Olimpia BozzaProduction Coordinator: M. Olimpia Bozza
Endicott Fall Endicott Fall 2014 Class:2014 Class:
Rebecca BohlsRebecca Bohls
Danielle BoucherDanielle Boucher
Rebekah CapeceRebekah Capece
Kaitlin DesbiensKaitlin Desbiens
Haley DiPietroHaley DiPietro
Christine DonohoeChristine Donohoe
Melissa DubeMelissa Dube
Lauren EckerLauren Ecker
Mallory FarleyMallory Farley
Teagan FortuneTeagan Fortune
Brianna FullamBrianna Fullam
Lauren GallagherLauren Gallagher
Chelsea GlynnChelsea Glynn
Sabina GrassoSabina Grasso
Kellie KerriganKellie Kerrigan
Kimberly KnowlesKimberly Knowles
Stephanie LoweStephanie Lowe
Amanda MersereauAmanda Mersereau
Andrea MountfordAndrea Mountford
Courtney MussellCourtney Mussell
Sarah NarburghSarah Narburgh
Johannah PicarielloJohannah Picariello
Sydney RidderSydney Ridder
Laura VarjabedianLaura Varjabedian
Courtney WilsonCourtney Wilson
Laura WunschLaura Wunsch