Italy Study Abroad Program Spotlight: Jacob Giancaterino

Jacob’s Experience

As a corporate financial management and piano performance double major, Jacob saw the Business and Culture in Italy program as the perfect way to experience both his love for the arts and knowledge of business in an international setting. 

“It was honestly the highlight of my college experience so far! I’ve always been captivated by Italian art, history, and culture, so this was a great opportunity for me to explore the beautiful country while learning about the luxury products that have driven Italy’s economy for generations.” 

During his travels to Rome, Florence, Bologna and Milan over the span of two weeks, Jacob immersed himself in Italy’s rich culture and even discovered a new passion he plans to focus on after he completes his undergraduate studies. 

“I plan on pursuing a masters in musicology, so this program helped me realize my research interest in 19th century Italian opera after I was able to see Puccini’s La Bohème in Florence, as well as visit Teatro alla Scala in Milan — one of the most historic opera houses in the world!” 

Some of Jacob's other favorite memories from the trip included walking into St. Peter’s Basilica and laughing at the jokes of his tour guide, Roberto. The biggest challenge, Jacob says, was learning how to navigate in a foreign country. 

“It took me and my roommate about half an hour to figure out the metro because all of the signs are in Italian!” 

Key Advice From Jacob on Studying Abroad

“Be open to new experiences, get out of your comfort zone and try new things!”