I never intended to study Italian in college. It was one of the few things my parents insisted that I do since I planned to study aboard in Florence during my sophomore year. Initially, I hated the language. Not because of the professors or the students or the language itself, but because I wasn’t very good at it. I barely passed grammar class in English. Grammar in another language? Yeah, as if that was going to happen. Nevertheless, I continued on my merry way and headed to Florence quipped with my minimal Italian speaking skills.

Studying in Florence changed the direction of my life. I fell in love with Italy: the culture, the language, the food and, most importantly, my family. My dad is Italian and by the time I had reached college I became accustomed to the fact that I would never understand a word during family gatherings. Yet, while I was abroad I began to learn and understand this culture that I had unknowingly grown up in. (Wait a second…so THAT’S why we always had fruit for dessert when we were little. I had just thought it was punishment…)

When I returned to JMU I decided to continue studying Italian for fun. Somehow, before I knew it, I was an Italian major. Through the many courses I have taken over the years I have not only expanded my Italian knowledge but I have also made great friends, grown as a person and found an academic home at JMU. While I could go own about my personal story, I would rather share with you my top ten reasons that I love being an Italian major.

Why I love being an Italian Major!

10. Teachers know me by name. (I am more than just a student…Professors take the time to get to know me and my life)

9. My classes are always engaging and interactive

8. I have an automatic lunch date every Wednesday (check out the Tavola Italiano)

7. I know how to pronounce menu items when I eat at an Italian Restaurant (Don’t even try and claim you knew how to say “Caprese Salad”)

6. Professors are accessible, easily approachable and willing to help

5. I now know what is said at my family gatherings (…still deciding if this is a good thing or not #crazygrandmotherproblems)

4. When I cross the stage at graduation I will be walking with a close group of friends.

3. Arriving late to class is not the end of the world

2. I get to go on field trips for the first time since middle school!

1. Like a true family, the Italian department is supporting in good times and in bad. (Awwww…so cute!)

While I never expected to become an Italian major the impact it has had on me is infinite. I have learned to be more accepting and understanding of other cultures and ideas. I have grown to understand the importance of family and making time for them no matter what. I have developed a passion for knowledge and trying new experiences. I may not find a career after college relating to my Italian studies, but I wouldn’t exchange this major for any. Italian is not just a major to me; it is a part of who I am and who I hope to continue to be.