Experiences Abroad: Italy
Oct. 23, 2008

Leaning Tower of Pisa in Pisa, Italy. From left, Claire Fulton, Dayna Gretz, Camille Cook, Meagan Thompson and Amy Davis.		Camille Cook (left) and Amy Davis at St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy.

“This study abroad experience meant a new exciting day, every day,” said Amy Davis, a senior majoring in hospitality and restaurant management in the UA School for Human Environmental Sciences. “To experience a different culture and learn from the opportunity was most important to me.”

Amy Davis completed six hours of credit during the summer at the Lorenzo De Medici School, Florence, Italy. She took classes focusing on current trends of Italian Cuisine, Food and Wine. Davis said the educational benefits were more than she expected.

“My teachers were very knowledgeable, and we learned about Italian culture both in the classroom and out in the community”, Davis said. “I brought everything I learned back home with me, including a better understanding of Italian culture”.

Davis said that one of the most exciting aspects of the study abroad experience was traveling on the weekends. She said she traveled on trains throughout Italy, from her arrival into Rome and then onto Florence.

“Traveling alone to Italy is a very intimidating and difficult experience,” Davis said. “However, I feel this gave me a sense of accomplishment, and I now feel much more confident and independent.”

A recipient of one the Cordia Harrington “The Bun Lady" International Experience Endowed Scholarships through the Bumpers College Global Studies Program, Davis said she strongly recommends a study abroad experience to other students.

“It is an amazing experience that I can't even describe through pictures', Davis said. “I believe changing your everyday life for a life in a new culture is something everyone should experience.”

Global Studies Program
Dr. Raymond W. Barclay, Director
425 Hotz Hall, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701
479-575-6727 • rbarclay@uark.edu