February 2019 – DEV – The Umbra Institute – Study Abroad in Italy

On February 19th, the Umbra Institute hosted “An Evening with Idanna Pucci,” author of The Trials of Maria Barbella: The True Story of a 19th-Century Crime of Passion. The novel tells the compelling story of Pucci’s great-grandmother, Cora Slocomb, who in 1895 read about the case of Maria Barbella, a 22-year-old Italian immigrant who worked in a New York City sweatshop. Barbella was convicted of killing her abusive lover and was sentenced to be the first woman to die in the newly invented electric chair. Convinced that as a woman and an immigrant, Barbella had been treated unfairly by the legal system, Slocomb took up her cause, hiring an attorney who managed to get his client retried and acquitted. Slocomb, at the same time, launched the first national campaign against the death penalty.

Pucci began her presentation by urging students to embrace their sense of curiosity. She explained that it was two sentences in a short booklet written by her great-grandfather that piqued her own curiosity about her great-grandmother. Those sentences made an obscure reference to Cora Slocomb’s role in a legal case from 1895. With only this information in hand, Pucci began a journey of research and discovery that took her from the New York Public Library to a cemetery in Queens, New York! Over many years, she came up against dead ends and made unexpected connections—for example, the role of Thomas Edison in the introduction of the electric chair. Through this extensive process that required great perseverance, Pucci unearthed a remarkable part of her own family’s history while also tracking down Maria Barbella’s descendants. Pucci’s curiosity and perseverance paid off as she eventually located Maria Barbella’s own great-granddaughter and traveled with her back to the southern Italian village of Ferrandina, where Barbella’s story began and where a large mural now immortalizes her.

This event was one of the co-curricular activities sponsored by the Institute’s Multicultural Psychology Program (MPP). It was a great opportunity for students to enhance their exploration of how cultures perceive and treat people who are different from them. For MPP student Natalie Lozito (University of Connecticut), what was especially fascinating about the presentation was seeing that Pucci was able to unearth the stories of her great-grandmother and Maria Barbella through “such an impressively persistent research process that led her to an absolute gold mine.” Similarly, what impressed MPP student Katherine Sokol (University of Connecticut) was “how one woman’s curiosity helped an entire family come together.” She found it “eye-opening to see that if you have a curiosity, and remain persistent, then anything is possible.”

To learn more about the Umbra Institute’s Multicultural Psychology Program, click here.

by Kathryn Donati, College of William and Mary and Spring ’19 Umbra Rep

Whether you crave your daily caffeine fix or enjoy the occasional artisanal hot chocolate, your time in Perugia will not be complete until you find your favorite local bar. My friend, and fellow Umbra student, Eleni and I bravely sacrificed one bright and sunny Friday morning to take a walking tour of the bars and cafes in Perugia’s centro storico. More than just moral support, Eleni was also the official Caffeinated Beverages Taste Tester, as I tend more to the hot chocolate and herbal teas of the world. Here are our very scientific findings.

For the most local experience, you’re going to want to head to Bar Duomo.
Local Perugini flow in and out of Bar Duomo all day, making it one of the best places for people and, more importantly, dog spotting in the piazza. Daniele, behind the bar, has a wide smile and an even wider selection of pastries and sandwiches, making this the perfect spot for a quick breakfast or lunch. Eleni sampled Bar Duomo’s caffè al ginseng — short and sweet that perfectly combines the punch of caffeine with the natural pep of ginseng. Bar Duomo’s cioccolata calda was more on the bitter side than other bars, though it was certainly thinner than some of the syrup-like concoctions we sampled. One of the most affordable options, you’re definitely paying local prices at Bar Duomo.

Final Score: 8/10 recommend Bar Duomo for a quick bite, an espresso or small coffee, and a friendly chat with the barista.

For the freshest flavors and roomiest seating, head to Il Bistrot.
Don’t be scared away by the mildly intimidating aura of Il Bistrot, with its business suit-wearing clientele and smartly dressed baristas. Here’s your key to surviving Il Bistrot: if you’re planning to go and sit, feel free to claim a table, wait for a waiter or order at the bar, and pay on your way out, but if you’re in a hurry, make sure you pay at the cassa, or cashier, first and then bring the receipt to the barista. It took us way too long to figure out this system. I ordered one of their fresh fruit smoothies and my mouth enjoyed its quick trip to summer and tropical fruit. Eleni continued her trend of caffè al ginseng and while Il Bistrot’s is slightly less sweet than the one at Bar Duomo, it has a wonderful nutty flavor. They have a fine selection of pastries, although you may have to fight a businessman for the last cornetto. Expect to pay a small premium for fresh fruit and waiters with matching buttons downs, but Il Bistrot’s prices are far from extravagant.

Final Score: 7/10 recommend Il Bistrot for fresh fruit smoothies and posh people watching.

For a change of pace and an oasis of calm (and vegan options!), head to TeaPerugia.
The atmosphere of TeaPerugia is as calming as the tea itself and it washes over you as soon as you step inside. The main barista of the bar is a kind soul and tea matchmaker – expect to find your leafy soulmate with her help. She doesn’t speak much English so have Google Translate at the ready if your Italian isn’t quite off the ground yet, but definitely don’t let that keep you from discovering this gem! We both tried the tea she recommended for us; for Eleni it was frutti rossi, the perfect amount of sweet with a distinct flavor. For me, jasmine and green tea blended together perfectly — it smelled as wonderful as it tasted. Unfortunately, there are no caffeine-free options at TeaPerugia, although her stocks change periodically so don’t be afraid to circle back and check again. We also didn’t try the vegan pastries or amazing food options, the only place in Perugia I’ve found that has couscous on the menu, those around us raved about them. Matchmaking comes at a price and TeaPerugia is no different so expect to dig a little further into that wallet for gourmet tea and vegan snacks – more than worth it for the occasional change of pace.

Final Score: 9/10 recommend TeaPerugia when you need to study, want a healthy choice, or need some peace and quiet.

Overall Favorite: Turan Cafe
Turan is a staple of Piazza IV Novembre and for the location alone it deserves 5 stars. More than just a convenient walk from school, Turan has a friendly staff, good selection of pastries, and the richest cioccolata calda in the city. Make sure you order it with panna and savor it nice and slow. Eleni says the coffee is strong and very reasonably priced. They have a rotating selection of desserts and pastries and make their own chocolate in house. Prices at Turan are average for pastries and coffee and their chocolate products, including the best hot chocolate in Perugia, can be a touch more expensive but nothing about Turan, including the price, keeps me from returning day after day.

Final Score: 10/10 recommend Turan for meeting with friends, grabbing a cornetto between classes, sampling some gourmet homemade chocolate, or studying on your own.

by Ruby Dann, University of Connecticut and Spring ’19 Umbra Rep

When I first began the process of deciding to study abroad, my highest concern was money. I was excited to encounter international travel, culture, and academics but deterred by the fear of spending money. If you are a potential study abroad applicant or current student who finds money to be a stressor, I want to share some tips and reminders to motivate you into enjoying what will be an incredibly rewarding journey. Choosing the Umbra Institute is your first step towards smart spending. Located in a historic city with a hometown vibe, the experience is authentic. Compared to Rome or Florence, Perugia provides a variety of cultural opportunities without touristy prices.

Grocery Shopping
As typical of Italian cities, there is both a historic and a modern section of Perugia. Because of the space available in the historic part, the nearby grocery stores (Coop, Umbrò, Pam) are akin to American minimarts or bodegas. However, there are larger versions of these stores in the modern section of the city. While it is a longer commute and requires the Mini-metrò, the prices are lower at the larger store, and the variety is substantially different. I recommend a collective and planned shopping trip to the large Coop once before each week, and to utilize the smaller, nearby shops when you need one or two items. Also, focus on the brands from which you are selecting. Similarly to American grocery shops, store brands are less expensive for an item of equivalent content. For example, Coop has its own brand of snacks, jarred goods, drinks, etc.

Dining Out
The Umbra Institute puts an emphasis on home cooked meals, as our apartments include furnished kitchens. Challenge yourself to cook in-house as often as possible. Still, indulging yourself in a fancy and filling meal of pizza and wine does not have to be a rare occasion. At a local pizzeria, your order can suffice for two meals. Depending on your toppings, the prices can start from only 4 euro per pizza. House wine is also very inexpensive, and sizes vary depending on your needs. In total, you can spend 11 euro on a classy meal out and still end up with leftovers. Perugia also has local Asian restaurants with very inexpensive dishes. You can try multiple dishes and still pay under 10 euro for your meal.

Transportation
To travel to and from the historic district of Perugia and the train station or other exciting spots in the city, the Minimetrò will be your friend. Plan head and buy a 10-ride card because the convenience and price are worth it. Buses will be your cheapest option for longer travel, but trains are similarly priced and more reliable.

Living in Perugia is about discovering cultural perspective coupled with self-exploration. It is one of the best Italian cities for cost-effectivity. As someone who has never lived away from home, the transition is natural. In addition to what Perugia has to offer, the Umbra Institute hosts multiple free pizza dinners and shares student discounts. Learning how to spend money is part of the study abroad experience, and just one of the countless opportunities for personal growth.

By McKenna Brooks, Fall 2018 Umbra Rep

Ciao! If you’re reading this, then that probably means you’re thinking about studying abroad in Italy. YAY! How exciting! When I decided to study abroad, I was very torn about where I wanted to go. I love traveling and I have so many places that I would love to visit. In the end, I decided on the Umbra Institute in Perugia, Italy. It turned out to be the right decision and one of the best of my life. In this blog post, I’m highlighting some of my favorite aspects of Italy and why I love living here so much. (See pictures below)

FOOD

If you’re a ‘foodie’ like me, then you’ll love Italy. It’s home to amazing pasta, yummy pastries, and fantastic pizza. I mean, who doesn’t love carbs, sweets, and cheese? Fresh mozzarella, buttery croissants, and homemade pasta will make you never ever want to leave. And if that isn’t enticing enough, the fresh produce is the best I’ve ever had. For all my chefs out there, the raw ingredients will take your grandma’s recipes up a notch. Honestly, if it weren’t for all the uphill walking and no elevators, I’m sure by now I would’ve doubled in size. Italy does live up to the food expectations.

ART

Tons of the world’s most famous painters, sculptors, and architects are Italian. People like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli to name a few. Even if you aren’t an art enthusiast, the buildings, frescoes (similar to murals), and statues are impressive to anyone, regardless of their interests. For example, Florence houses world renown, iconic works, such as Michelangelo’s “David” and Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus.” Even less famous works like frescoes painted by Cimabue and Giotto in Assisi, dating back to the 13^th century, can still be appreciated. Living in Italy and visiting numerous museums and cathedrals has given me a newfound love and respect for art.

VIEWS

Okay, if you’ve read this far and aren’t convinced, then maybe this will change your mind. Because of its location, Italy has everything from Mediterranean beaches, vast coastlines, lush forests, rolling plains, and beautiful mountains. The landscape is covered in towering cypress trees, umbrella pines, palm trees, fields of grass and flowers, and panoramic vistas where you can see for miles. Even the towns and cities packed full of buildings and people are undeniably gorgeous. Contrary to the States, seemingly every plaza, street, and apartment has been crafted with artistic care. You can find detailed facades, huge engraved doors with bronze knockers in the shapes of lion heads or hands, expertly paved streets, arches, and spouting fountains surrounded by sculptures. Italy is genuinely such a beautiful country that you’ll fall in love with it immediately.

There is so much I love about Italy. I can only write about a few things, but I hope you can understand how absolutely amazing this country is. Although, this is just my experience and what I appreciate, I’m confident in saying that no matter who you are, you’ll have an absolutely wonderful time in Italy. Grazie per la vostra attenzione! Thanks for reading!

By Ashley Palmer, Fall 2018 Umbra Rep

And so we sat down once again, together— this time not as strangers, but rather as friends. It seems like just yesterday, this fall’s Food and Sustainability Studies Program students first gathered at our welcome dinner at the start of the semester. At that dinner, we sat down with not only open stomachs, but also open minds. We were hungry for the Italian cuisine we had heard so much about and for the adventure that was yet to come. I remember being so excited for the semester ahead of me, the people I would meet, the foods I would eat, the places I would go, and for the things I would learn along the way. I looked around the large table, at the unfamiliar faces around me, and wondered what I would learn by the end of the next four months.

I first heard about the Food and Sustainability Studies Program by way of a study abroad fair at my home institution, Endicott College. I had already had my heart set on going to Perugia, to the Umbra Institute, but I was undecided as to what classes I should take. I got back to my dorm room and eagerly leafed through the pamphlet I received, quickly deciding to partake in the program. Looking back on that day, I am so grateful because this program has made my study abroad experience truly unique. Over the course of this semester, I have gained a new perspective on food and culture in Italy. Through community engagement, traveling, anthropological interviews, and workshops, my education was both extraordinary and surprising. History, food, anthropology, and sustainability are a few broad topics to describe what I have learned, as there has been so much more. With my education inside and outside the classroom, I achieved an understanding about not only the past of Italy, but the present as well. During my time here, I have learned about the Italian people of today, and the meaningfulness behind their culture.

Last night at the final dinner of the program, I sat down with new knowledge and new memories. I learned so much more than I anticipated, and I got to see so many amazing things along the way. I and the ten other students in the program became closer throughout our time in the classroom and in our travels throughout Italy. Together, we ate fresh grapes in the vineyards of Tuscany, tasted traditional balsamic vinegar older than we are, harvested olives in a sustainable garden, and recreated ancient recipes— just to name a few interesting things from our extensive list of adventures. With our new-gained knowledge, we acquired an appreciation for the beautiful country of Italy, and the culture it proudly shared with us. Although it is bittersweet looking back on when we began and how quickly the time passed, I am happy with the decision to partake in the Food and Sustainability Studies Program at the Umbra Institute. Last night, we talked like it was any other day together, but we reflected on how much had changed since the first time we sat down with each other for a meal. This time, at then end of the night, we walked out with full stomachs and minds— leaving with an experience we will never forget.

To learn more about Food & Sustainability Studies at the Umbra Institute, click here.

Written by Fall 2018 Alumni: Garrett Yocklin (University of Maryland)

Umbra Program: Direct Enrollment at the University of Perugia
During the Fall 2018 semester in Perugia, I had the opportunity to study through the Umbra Institute’s Direct Enrollment program at both the University for Foreigners of Perugia and the University of Perugia. As an Italian Major and a student of the language for the past three years, this was the perfect program for me. Basically, during my first month in Perugia I studied Italian intensively with students from all over the world. This period helped me to become more comfortable using my Italian while also continuing to improve my skills before I had to use it in a situation meant entirely for native speakers, and I met friends who were students of Italian from many different countries and shared my passion for the language. Next, I transferred to the university where Italian students in Perugia take classes. At the University of Perugia, I took two courses at the triennale level, which is roughly equivalent to our undergrad but lasts for three years instead of four. Through Umbra I had an apartment with Italian students, meaning that I was constantly communicating in Italian and my roommates often helped me to navigate the Italian university system.

Attending an Italian university was definitely a different experience and can be challenging for someone who, like me, was only familiar with college in America. To start, at least for the courses I was taking (Roman History and History of the Italian Language) lectures were everything. There were no PowerPoint slides or notes on what was covered each day, just the professor talking for an hour and a half and as much of their lecture as you could write down. This means that knowing someone in the class who can give you notes when you miss a lecture or explain something you didn’t catch is very important. The professor did not necessarily have a single textbook for the course but rather recommended several from which the students should choose. Then there is the exam, which was quite unlike any I had taken in America. Italian tests are generally oral exams, meaning you sit down in front of the professor and they quiz you on the relevant topics. However, in addition to the professor, several dozen of your classmates are in the room studying, waiting their turn, and listening to your exam while you take it. Having them all there during the exam can be stressful, to say the least, leaving you self-conscious not only about your answers but about your language proficiency. The number of questions varies; it could be as few as three or as many as ten, the professor continues until they believe you have demonstrated how well you understand the material. Because of this, knowing the information is not everything, it’s just as important to be able to articulate it in a coherent way and respond to the cues that the examiner gives you. At the end of the exam, the professor announces your grade out of 30, with 18 to pass and 30+ (trenta e lode) being a perfect score. There are sometimes midterm exams so that you don’t have to study the entire class at once, but most Italian students have a period of at least a few weeks between the end of classes and the exam date. Due to time restrictions, I took my exams right after the course ended, but my roommates would stay up all night studying for weeks before an exam to prepare.

Overall, university in Italy is a more independent experience, where time management is incredibly important. The lack of grades for homework, classwork, projects, or participation means that the exam is everything, and students need to know how and when to study the material throughout the semester so as not to be overwhelmed come the final exam. As a student of Italian, I’m glad I got to study at the University of Perugia because it helped me better understand what my peers in Italy go through, an important part of studying the culture of any country. At the same time, I experienced the pros and cons of both styles of higher learning, giving me a more critical eye towards how I view our own educational system. Luckily, the staff at Umbra were always available to bridge the cultural gap between the two systems and help me navigate the Italian bureaucracy. For students who wish to immerse themselves more deeply in Italian society and learn more about Italy, I would definitely recommend they consider direct enrollment at the University through the Umbra Institute. It won’t be easy, but in the end, I think you’ll find you learn much more than just what’s taught in class.

How does study abroad prepare students in terms of their employability?

Dr. John Dennis, a professor in Umbra’s Multicultural Psychology Program, is currently engaged in research to uncover how educators can help close the divide between students and employers. Through his research, he has discovered that while international education researchers often focus on the development of ‘social intelligence’ – how students relate to others – what he has found was a deeper link to cognitive skills. “Skills like ‘quick thinking’, ‘learning agility’, or ‘creative insight’ are employability skills that develop the most, post-international student experience,” elaborated Dr. Dennis when asked about the most recent results of his work.

In addition, Dr. Dennis and his team have identified ‘team work’, ‘customer focus’, and ‘diligence’ as key employability skills developed during and after the study abroad experience.

To analyze cognitive skill development, Dr. Dennis and his research partners have been using game-based analytics, as a way to limit self-reporting bias and discover what employers value the most. Their research will be presented in detail at the upcoming NAFSA annual conference through their presentation ‘Local employers and globally aware graduates: Creating the perfect match.’

Where should we focus our pedagogical methods to ensure that students get the most out of their experience?

“Community engagement is the number one thing that Umbra does that supports employability skill development,” shared Dr. Dennis. Though students may initially resist some activities because the experience requires them to step out of their comfort zone and beyond the pages of a textbook, they later communicate with Dr. Dennis to let him know how these experiences have become invaluable to them as they reflect on their education and prepare for their careers. For this reason, Dr. Dennis regularly integrates community engagement into his classes. Past examples include the class partnership with a local winery, Chiesa del Carmine, to help improve their corporate culture, and with a local non-profit that works with immigrants, CIDIS, to help with integration and intercultural differences.

“I really enjoy working with students so that they can make ‘data-driven decisions’,” shared Dr. Dennis when explaining how he evaluates written and oral assignments and selects readings for his syllabi. The goal is to have students study key concepts of Organizational Behavior or the Science of Behavioral Change and develop those skills that will maximize their potential to flex their higher order cognitive skills so that they are ‘so good they can’t be ignored’ by future employers.

Umbra invites you to contact us at [email protected] to arrange a meeting with our staff during the NAFSA annual conference this spring, and to ask for more information regarding Dr. Dennis’ presentation at the conference.

Click here to learn more about Umbra’s community engagement efforts.