For many students, studying abroad has become a core experience of attending St. Joseph’s University, New York. It has allowed them to travel the world, indulge in new cultures and expand their professional network on a global scale, helping them stand out as a job candidate post-graduation.
On October 23, the Office of Global Studies hosted its annual Study Away Conference, in which students in the University’s study abroad and study away programs had the opportunity to present their experiences before friends, family and faculty.
Each year, students embark on trips near and far, from cities across the country to countries across the globe such as Iceland, Czechia and Italy. The evening took guests through the lessons learned and memories made as students recalled the highlights of their travels.
Tales Told Abroad
Starting things off were the event’s keynote speakers and alumni, Joseph and Michael Vecchione ’23, twin brothers who traveled to Berlin, Nuremberg, Munich, Vienna, Boston and London during their time at St. Joseph’s. According to the brothers, the experience inspired them to change career paths after getting a first-hand account of the horrors involving the Holocaust during their time in Germany.
SJNY alumni and the evening’s keynote speakers, Joseph and Michael Vecchione ’23.
“Studying abroad really changed my life for the better. Before traveling to Germany, I had plans to become a teacher, but since my trip I realized that I want to work more in history than in education,” said Joseph, who is currently studying toward a Master’s in History.
“I’m in the same boat as my brother,” Michael shared. “I too wanted to be a teacher but I’m now leaning more toward higher education. I can’t wait to go back and experience it all again. Visit different countries, meet new people, and try new things. I think it’s just another great way our trip impacted us.”
The trip to Germany and Austria is one of several trips that the Office of Global Studies host each year, led by Nerissa Aksamit, Ph.D., assistant professor of history, and Jacqueline Volpicella, LCSW, assistant teaching professor of psychology.
Meanwhile, another student’s desire for cultural understanding brought her to Florence, Italy to study at the Florence University of the Arts as an exchange student.
“The Study Abroad program is the reason I came to St. Joseph’s,” said Gianna Gallo, a psychology major.
Her experiences in Florence offered cultural immersion, allowing her to meet people from all over the world as she explored Italy’s rich history. And the adventures didn’t stop in Florence.
During her time abroad, Gallo also ventured to Switzerland, Croatia and the Dolomite Mountains.
Studying Away
While many students enjoy their time abroad, The Office of Global Studies also offers opportunities within the United States, specifically through the Disney College Program. English major Cameron Martocci worked as a cast member at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando, FL where she ensured guest safety during parades and firework showings.
Martocci recalled special cast member perks such as free park admission, backstage tours, the chance to meet one of her idols, and most importantly, being able to put Disney on her resume for future opportunities.
Maria Reyes, a Liberal Arts major, spoke on her experience in America as a student from Mexico. Attending St. Joseph’s has allowed her to examine the cultural differences between the U.S. and her home country from all aspects, gaining teaching experience as an intern and visiting many cities and states including Hawaii, Maine, Florida, New York City and Chicago.
Photo Contest Winners
The event concluded with a photography contest wherein students placed their photos from their time abroad on display. First, second and third place winners went to Gabrielle Andreacchi, Gianna Oliveri and Maria Reyes respectively.
Complete list of student presenters: Gianna Gallo, Edward Ford, Cameron Martocci, Molly McLean, Maria Reyes, Gabriella Srodon, Fiona Catsoris, Dean Festa and Gabrielle Wells.
