Reprts

Sara Amil

University: Washington & Lee University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: Before the program began, all my friends would ask where I was studying and I didn’t know how to explain what Urbino was like because I didn’t know myself. Googling the city would result in the same few pictures, and my only friend who had heard of it told me it was a ghost town. When I finally arrived in Urbino after weeks of anticipation, I was anything but disappointed. The beautiful stone architecture and friendly faces immediately make you feel at home. I couldn’t be more thankful for the opportunities this program has brought me, allowing me to meet wonderful people and learn so much at the same time. This program has brought me field experience, travel opportunities, and many great friendships. I am sad to be leaving such a beautiful place rich in culture, but am so blessed I was able to discover the small town in the first place.
See Sara’s story: An Organic Lifestyle

Jess Baumann

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Interactive Design)
Urbino Experience: When I first came across this program, little did I know that it would be an experience of a lifetime. Before coming to Urbino, I had never been out of the country, therefore I had no idea what to expect. Coming to Urbino has forced me to go out of my comfort zone—simply being somewhere where no one speaks English, asking strangers to take their pictures, interviewing Italians, etc. I have multiple places that I am lucky enough to call home: New Jersey, James Madison University, and now Urbino, Italy. Urbino was the perfect destination for me to study abroad. This quiet but lively and small town has been so good to me; Urbino forced me to immerse myself in the Italian culture and learn so many new things. A big thank you to my parents for letting me come to Italy and be involved with this amazing program! I’ll be back one day Italy!
See Jessica’s story: The Blue Gold of Urbino

Allison Baxter

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: After sitting on the runway for one hour, it was hard to imagine we would ever arrive in Italy. Upon arrival, the Dulles 8 huddled together in a corner of a café and offered ideas of what each other thought the next month of our lives would entail. While I don’t think every prediction came true, one did for sure; that we would all leave being closer than before. I have enjoyed connecting with others within my major. I feel that there is a system of support within the SMAD department now as we are all bonded by this month-long experience of navigating Urbino. Thank you to Susan West for letting me cry whenever I was overwhelmed, the Basili for its soy cappuccino, Liza Moore for being the best story partner, Cau & Spada for an amazing experience every visit, and Sandra at Bosom Pub for her free candy shots.
See Alli’s story: The Cheese of Lovers

Ellie Brown

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema(
Urbino Experience: When I first heard about this study abroad trip to Italy I was so excited and immediately went to find out more info but when I was about to click the deposit button, a wave of hesitation and fear stopped me. I had never been to Europe and I had never been separated from my twin sister for more than a week in my life. Fast-forward to these past couple weeks and I’ve learned more about myself during this trip than I have my entire life. I’ve gotten a glimpse at how big the world actually is, I’ve made lifelong friends, I’ve learned that Italians are some of the kindest and most genuine people, and I’ve seen views that actually made me tear up. Urbino, Italy is the perfect town for study abroad and has offered me an experience of a life time. I would highly recommend to anyone even remotely thinking about studying abroad. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from this experience it’s that you only reach your full potential and get the best things out of life when you seek discomfort and don’t let fear hold you back.
See Ellie’s story: Stronger Together: Women Farmers of Urbino

Alaina Capodice

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Creative Advertising)
Urbino Experience: I came to Italy looking to explore my Italian roots. I never would have thought the small town of Urbino would open my eyes to so much culture. My first steps in Urbino were like walking on the set of an old Italian movie, a feeling that surprisingly never went away. After days of immersing myself in the culture, I became a character in the Urbino movie. The people of Urbino welcomed us with open arms whether it was hanging out with us, letting us take photos of them, or even letting us pet their dogs. Reporting on real stories with the interpreters helped me grow not only as a writer, but as a person. Reporting in Urbino pushed me to think outside my box and to look from other perspectives. I’ve met some great people that were always down to grab a slice of pizza or walk around at the Saturday market. Thank you Urbino for sharing your beautiful mountain views, your stunning architecture, and your proud history.
See Alaina’s story: Beakers to Bookbinding

Alexandria Craven

University: Winston-Salem State University
Major: Elementary Education
Urbino Experience: It feels like just yesterday I was packing my suitcase into the car and heading to the airport to embark on my journey to Urbino, Italy. I never thought I would have the opportunity to study abroad, meet people in a new land, and gain an understanding in journalism. Traveling on a plane for the first time to Urbino I did not know what to expect, but I can truly say it was well worth the trip. I have been surrounded by a beautiful place full of amazing history, built relationships with locals, traveled to surrounding cities, and met new friends that will always have a place in my heart. From the events during the day, to the night life in Urbino, weekend excursions, and loads of gelato this experience was like no other. I am grateful for the experience and would recommend this program to anyone from all backgrounds. Looking at pictures through a computer screen paint a nice scene but coming to Urbino you find so much more and realize it is not the same. Stepping outside my comfort zone has been so rewarding and I would not trade this for the world. Thanks to my family, friends, and ieiMedia for making this possible.
See Alexandria’s story: Feel Good, Trade Fair

Sarah Detwiler

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: Urbino, my city on top of a hill. Before coming here, I was nervous to submerge myself into a culture I had in no way, except for my mother’s cooking, been exposed to before. Never did I imagine that I would find it so hard to say goodbye to a town that I had only gotten to know for four weeks. I will miss caving in and getting gelato after every meal, waving to local sandwich shop owners who know my order by heart now, experiencing Bosum in all its glory every Tuesday and Thursday night, running around Venice and Florence with all of my dysfunctional friends, and soaking in every part of Urbino’s beauty out on the third floor terrace. Thank you to my “Italian Stallions” for giving me endless snapchat memories that I will never forget when I look back at “a year ago today”. Thank you to my parents for supporting me in this crazy adventure and pushing me to live out a dream I have always wanted to turn into a reality. Thank you to all of my professors, especially Bob Marshall, Susan Biddle and Rusty Greene, for challenging me and teaching me things about myself I never knew I was capable of. And lastly, thank you Urbino. Until next time, ciao sister!
See Sarah’s story: Italy Beyond Wine, Pasta and Art

Gianna Di Gregorio

University: Colorado State University
Major: Equine Science
Urbino Experience: Never could I have imagined to come to such a foreign place, with individuals I have never met before, and feel so at home. My time here in Urbino has truly been life changing. Not only was I able to challenge myself academically during this four week program, but I was able to challenge myself personally by stepping so far outside of my comfort zone. The people I met through this program have left a mark that I will carry with me, and I am thankful for the opportunity to participate in this program. This quaint little place is the perfect location for this study abroad, and I think anyone could fall in love with this city in a matter of moments. I know I did the second we hauled our luggage down the cobblestone and into the dorms. I will forever be grateful for this city, the friends I’ve made, and the knowledge I gained in just four weeks. Participating in this study abroad program was the single best decision I ever made in college, and I will always hold a special place in my heart for Urbino, Italy.
See Gianna’s story: Living the Land

Eliza Friel

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Creative Advertising)
Urbino Experience: Urbino, Italy is a place I never even knew about before this study abroad opportunity, but after my month here, it is a place I definitely won’t forget. It feels like being in a whole other world, but also being right at home. The people here are so friendly that after a month I feel like a local and see friends all around town. Being right next to the piazza has given me the opportunity to feel like I am a part of the city, I’ve loved being so close to where things are always happening. I am very new to the SMAD major so being able to work so closely with experts has really helped me grow in something I really had no experience in. Now when I get back to JMU I will have the upper hand in my classes and will also have a plethora of different friends in my major. I will miss all the gelato, the interpreters which have now become close friends, and even hiking up Via Raffaello. I am so thankful for this opportunity.
See Eliza’s story: Where the Wild Things Are

Katherine Inman

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Interactive Design)
Urbino Experience: The only words I have to describe about my time spent in Urbino are thank you. Thank you to my parents for giving me the opportunity to travel to Italy and pushing me out of my comfort zone. I’m thankful for the most incredible group of students and professors who have taught me more in these past weeks than I thought possible. I’m thankful for the adventures I had traveling to Venice and Florence which hold memories I will never forget. I’m thankful that Urbino is home to the friendliest shop owners that know my order by heart and make me feel like this city is my home as well. I’m thankful for the gelato, cheese, pizza, and all the other amazing Italian cuisine I have been able to taste, especially the seafood. I’m thankful for the rich culture and stunning scenic views. But most of all I am thankful for the wine and the memories created over sharing a glass (or two) with the friends I made in Urbino.
See Katherine’s story: Cooking Up a Revolution

Ester Jon

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Creative Advertising)
Urbino Experience: Before coming on this trip, I was honestly disappointed that we weren’t set to stay at a more popular location, such as Florence or Venice. However, once we all arrived and learned the ways of the city, I soon understood why so many people recommend this program. The program is filled with professionals that are excited and willing to share their expertise with the students. The small streets of Urbino enable for constant run-ins with familiar faces, and help grow relationships that no one would’ve ever thought they would make. You are able to create lifelong bonds with the other students that you would’ve never met had it not been for the program. The spontaneous trips to other parts of the country, including the exhaustion from travelling to the stress of finding a place to stay, are all pieces of this trip I will miss dearly. I’ve been so thankful to have experienced such an amazing time here in Urbino, surrounded by some of the best people I’ve ever met. If you can, go to all of the excursions, take as many pictures as your SD card can handle, and go watch all of the movies, you won’t regret a thing.
See Ester’s story: Starting from Scratch, Again

Alexander MacDougall

University: Boston University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: 
Studying in Urbino has given me a marvelous experience in learning how to work and live as a foreign reporter, all while enjoying a picturesque city rich in Renaissance history. While small in size, Urbino offers many hidden secrets and charms that the aspiring reporter will discover as they walk around its narrow streets, with an extraordinary potential of stories just waiting to be told. You will also find yourself deeply immersed within the Italian culture and its people, who will be willing to share with you their experiences and passions of what they do and how they live. The professors offer excellent guidance and encouragement as they help you hone skills in writing and digital photography, and you are often working with fellow Italian students who serve as interpreters. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who is looking to gain experience in foreign reporting or who wants to get to know the culture of this beautiful country better.
See Alexander’s story: Let’s Go Fly a Kite

Sabriya McKoy

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: My time in Urbino has been nothing short of an adventure. From taking the first step in Italian soil, to getting gelato every evening after dinner. Italy is not a place without already visiting, will you understand the simplicity of living or the roaring laughter of Italian students walking the streets at night. On rainy days in May there seems to be less people roaming the Piazza but the sun surely forces itself out of the corners around noon. Throughout my time living in Urbino I never had a dull moment. Even when homework deadlines come up, the stories that are produced have so much life and the joyous people that are eager to teach you. Each city is different, and I will definitely come back to experience more of what Italy has to offer. The culture is so interesting and the history behind it will lead you to a place of excitement.
See Sabriya’s story: La Fattoria del Borgo

Liza Moore

University: Washington & Lee University
Major: Journalism and Studio Art
Urbino Experience: Living in Urbino for the past few weeks has been an incredible experience that not many students receive while studying abroad. Not studying in the center of a busy city allowed me to immerse myself in Italian culture on a deeper level as I met locals and built a routine within the Renaissance walls of Urbino. On train rides back from more well known areas of Italy, both myself and friends on the program found ourselves excited to return to the tranquility of Urbino after enduring the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Despite the difficulty language barriers may pose, reporting in a foreign country has been a highlight within my career as a journalism student.
See Liza’s story: Protecting the Flock

Jazmine Otey

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: As I readied for my trip to Urbino, anxiety had seized me. This would be my first time on an airplane and in a foreign country and honestly, it was daunting. Everyone around me seemed familiar with what it was like to be in a culture outside from their own and as I looked around me with a soft, bashful smile I felt as if this trip, and the program itself, would be too big for me. Regardless, I pushed this irrational fear to the side and decided it was time to stop being confined by my own doubt. Looking back, I can say with ease that it is one of the best decisions I’ve made. Now, walking down the cobble stone walkways, with the annoying pigeons trailing close behind me, I feel at home in the small, quaint town of Urbino. Being immersed in a culture different from my own has taught me about myself in a way I’d never imagined. I’ve made new, exciting friendships and gained more confidence in my abilities through being pushed everyday by my talented advisers. I am forever grateful for this insightful experience — the town, its food and even the pigeons will be missed.
See Jazmine’s story: Bussu’s Home of Cheese

Sam Parker

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Digital Video & Cinema)
Urbino Experience: Beautiful in every way. Living in Urbino was not enough time to spend in such an incredible place. The Landscape, the people, the experiences, and all the small moments; there is no better way to describe this place other than beautiful. Arriving here, I was intimidated by the idea of being thrust into a country where I knew only the basics of the language and culture and that’s all. That fear quickly went away when I took my first few strolls in the city walls. Everyone was beyond inviting, and even excited just to speak with you and make a connection. I couldn’t be happier. Our time in and outside the classroom helped me grow, learn, and experience new things. Everyday it was something out of a movie. For example, when I went to an interview for my story. Instead of just starting my interview right away, I walked into the leather shop where I was greeted by cheering. A lunch of pasta, cuttlefish, blue fish, muscles, clams and different types of drinks were set up on the table. Mauro, the leather worker, had invited over a number of his friends and people he had just met 30 minutes earlier. For the next 2 and a half hours, we talked, ate, drank, and just enjoyed each others presence. This is the kind of place I lived in for a month. I lived in the best film you could imagine. I can’t thank my parents, this program, and the town of Urbino enough for all that they have given me.
See Sam’s story: L’Artigiano: The Craftsman

Caitlin Piemme

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: Initially I was nervous to spend a month in a foreign country with people I didn’t know, but I’ve made amazing friends and tried many new things in a matter of weeks. This program pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me better myself as a journalist. I now feel less afraid to approach strangers and ask them questions or take their photo. I’m excited to take these skills home with me as I continue to pursue multimedia journalism in my last year of school and in the real world. This program also gave me a taste of the real world. It taught me that if you want something, go get it. To anyone reading this who is unsure of studying abroad, just do it! Take a risk because you’ll never know what you may encounter once you’re in an unfamiliar place. Urbino has such rich history, breathtaking views and interesting people who want to tell you their stories, and you have a whole team of professors with you who want you to succeed. I’m so thankful for this wonderful opportunity!
See Caitlin’s story: Finding the Off Switch

Kelsey Robertson

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Interactive Design)
Urbino Experience: Before traveling across seas, I had no idea what to expect from Urbino or study abroad in general. I knew I wanted to challenge myself, while also getting to enjoy all that the quaint city had to offer. As I prepare to leave Urbino, I can proudly say I have done just that. I am taking home a newfound confidence in journalism, as well as memories with new friends which I’ll cherish for a lifetime. From diligently working on projects at the Basili, to spending Saturday mornings mindlessly roaming around the market, Urbino has brought me some of the best people which I am so blessed to have gotten to know. Included as such are the passionate interpreters and encouraging mentors, without whom I would not have been able to complete a successful story. I am enthusiastic to put my new skills to test while finishing out my collegiate career and entering the workforce. Thank you to my parents and grandmother for helping make this trip a reality and thank you to Urbino for a life changing experience.
See Kelsey’s story: Nurture Through Nature

Logan Roddy

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: The city of Urbino welcomes you into its steep walls with open arms but forces you to put in the effort to learn about what it has to offer. The winding maze of steep cobbled streets around the Piazza della Repubblica holds something special at each turn. Whether it be the exciting college town nightlife or any one of the delicious osterias, no one should find themselves bored in Urbino. This trip required me to employ time management skills in order to balance exploration, interviewing, and reporting work. I’ve met some wonderful people working with both the university interpreters and the citizens of Urbino, and plan to carry those friendships with me back to the states. The opportunity to put oneself into and actively learn all there is to know about a unique environment such as Urbino is a privilege that I am forever grateful to have experienced.
See Logan’s story: Shining a Light on Caffé del Sole

Zahra Sandhu

University: Ithaca College
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: I came here with an imagined supercut in mind of what my time in Urbino was going to look like: welcoming people, scenic landscapes, loud chatter that filled the strada late at night. While my time Italy was all of those things, it was much more. What was missing were the faces I’d meet and come to grow found of, the food I’d taste and never tire of, the bruises that would cover my legs from the adventures I’d go on, and all the other details that has made this such a unique experience. As the days have passed by I have successfully filled in those blank spaces of and it it no longer imagined— thoughts and expectations can only take you so far but it is the reality of an experience, this one in particular, that I will treasure for the years to come. Never could I have imagined exploring a cave on the top of Mt. Nerone, rock climbing in Le Marche region, or creating a connection with such extraordinary individuals in the local area where most of our interactions were done with a smile and some simple gestures. From the interpreters to the professors to the people I’ve gotten to know well and experiences I’ve been able to have, I can truly say these 4 weeks are seemingly unforgettable. My supercut is now complete and will remain in the corners on my mind as I travel back home. I will be reminded of it when I attempt to make my own gnocchi in the states or go on hiking in the mountains.
See Zahra’s story: Diggin’ Speleology

Madison Schultz

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: When I learned about the Urbino Program, I was immediately intrigued. I am fascinated by other cultures and curious about people, so I was excited for the opportunity to step into a new place and document it through multimedia storytelling. What I didn’t realize when I applied for the trip (and received a very generous scholarship from the Independent Scholars program at JMU) was how much I would grow during my time here. In the past three weeks, I have been pushed far beyond the bounds of what is comfortable. Forming deep relationships with people whose beliefs and backgrounds are diverse and dissimilar to my own has expanded my own worldview – not to mention led me to treasured friendships. Working with seasoned professionals has been both humbling and challenging, and the encouragement that has been spoken over me by my mentors here has shown me that I am capable of far more than I believe. Finally, throwing my preconceptions about nightlife out the window to chase the story of a woman whose passion, love, and life is intermingled with her pub has absolutely touched my heart. Thank you so much Urbino, for being a wide-open space for me to grow. (And thanks mom and dad for endlessly supporting my wildest dreams).
See Madison’s story: Dancing Around the Law

Meaghan T’ao

University: Boston University
Major: Journalism
Urbino Experience: Urbino has been an ideal place to learn about foreign reporting and gain experience working with interpreters. Beyond the charming cobblestone alleyways and street-side cafes of the walled city lies a wealth of history and fascinating narratives. From scaling scaffolding to learn about the art restoration process to touring the historic Ducal Palace, I’ve learned to interview people and tell stories in a culture that is distinctly unique from what I’m used to. The rigorous schedule provided a very well-rounded knowledge base for both brushing up on reporting basics and working on photo stories, as well as plenty of opportunities to engage with the culture and attractions of the city. Additionally, the amount of time allocated for planning interviews allowed for me to dig deep into my stories and really get to know the interviewees. My sources and interpreters have become close friends, and the church where I’ve conducted most of my interviews a second home.
See Meaghan’s story: Uncovering the Past

Carley Welch

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Journalism)
Urbino Experience: I am so thankful for everything the Urbino Project has taught me. It’s not very often that you get to be surrounded by talented students and one of a kind professors in such a remarkable city. Urbino may be a small, quiet city, but it has countless things to offer. The people here are kind and free-spirited. They really make you feel at home. This past month has given me not only skills that I never had such as photography and video taking, but it has also given me life-long friends. I came here with a good amount of writing experience, but this program has allowed me to become a more comfortable and confident writer as well. I will miss Urbino dearly, but I will always cherish the memories I have made here.
See Carley’s story: Oltre Mercato

Olivia White

University: James Madison University
Major: Media Arts & Design (Creative Advertising)
Urbino Experience: In the short time I’ve spent here, I have realized that coming to Urbino is one of the best decisions I have ever made. I came into this trip expecting a small, boring town and was surprised with a buzzing city, full of life and rich culture. I am surrounded by beautiful scenery, both architectural and environmental, as well as a culture foreign to mine that has sparked my desire to travel and explore. Urbino is a city that always has something going on, a way to unite their citizens, and easily helps you immerse yourself into it. This program is special to me because it allows for personal time with your mentors to help you grow individually and build a connection with them that’s not common in a normal classroom setting. I have learned so much not only from the classes themselves, but also by being forced to step out of my comfort zone. I am so incredibly excited to apply all the skills I’ve gained while abroad to my studies, career, and life in general.
See Olivia’s story: Fishing for a Future