Josemit R.
Q&A
"The most meaningful parts were traveling most of Italy, and seeing beauty and history everywhere. Combining that with forming a group of friends from the UC's, it became a summer I will remember for the rest of my life."
I’ve always been interested in exploring cultures beyond the United States, more specifically Italy, since I was a little boy. Studying abroad felt like the best way to push myself outside of my comfort zone—and specifically chose the Made in Italy program in Rome—because I wanted to experience history, art, and food firsthand in the country that shaped so much of Western culture. The program also stood out because it combined cultural immersion with academic rigor, giving me the chance to explore Italy’s traditions while still staying on track with my studies.
My identity shaped the way I approached studying abroad. Representation mattered to me—I didn’t grow up seeing people who looked like me travel internationally, so part of my motivation was to challenge that and set an example for others, this study abroad trip to Italy was also my first time out of the United States. My identity also made me more intentional about preparation; I wanted to find community abroad and learn about the Italian language and culture while still honoring my roots.
A typical day in Rome started with grabbing a quick cappuccino and pastry before heading to class. After lectures, I often explored local neighborhoods, visiting markets or historical sites that I had only read about before. Evenings usually involved sharing a meal with friends—sometimes at a small trattoria, other times eating meals in my homestay. Each day blended academic work with cultural discovery in a way that made learning feel alive.
I took 2 upper division courses abroad, one focused on, Italian Craftsmanship & Luxury, and Made in Italy: Marketing, to help me with my intended business endeavors. The classes abroad felt different from Berkeley because learning often extended beyond the classroom. For example, lectures were sometimes paired with on-site visits to museums or historical sites. At Berkeley, classes are more theory-driven, but in Rome, the city itself became a living classroom.
Being abroad gave me a new perspective on how my identity is perceived outside the U.S. I noticed differences in how people related to me, which made me reflect more deeply on what aspects of my identity I carry proudly and which I sometimes take for granted. I learned that there exists no boundary preventing you to express yourself or relating to anyone. Overall, I left Italy with a stronger sense of self-confidence and appreciation for the unique perspective my background gives me.
The most meaningful parts were traveling most of Italy, and seeing beauty and history everywhere. Combining that with forming a group of friends from the UC's, it became a summer I will remember for the rest of my life. These moments stood out because it reminded me how much growth and joy can come from stepping outside familiar spaces and embracing new environments. I thought about all the growth I’ve experienced and the incredible people I’ve met along the way, and how far I’ve come to reach this point in my life.
I would encourage students to go for it, even if it feels scary at first. Studying abroad will challenge you, but it will also give you lifelong memories and lessons. For those who share my identities, I’d say: your perspective matters, and being abroad only makes it stronger. In Italy, lean into the cultural exchange—try the food, speak the language, connect with locals. You’ll come back with a deeper understanding of yourself and the world.