Theresa was selected as an SAI scholarship recipient and blogger for the Summer. She is a current student at Norther Illinois University studying at Siena Italian Studies in Italy during the Summer 2014 term.

Tell us why you chose to study abroad.
I’ve always wanted to study abroad because I really enjoy learning. I’ve traveled to different countries before and stayed in hotels and observed culture, but I wanted to actually get first hand experience in immersing myself into a different culture. I thought it would be the best way for me to really learn a different language.

Tell us about your school, major, interests, clubs (you in a nutshell).
I currently go to Northern Illinois University and am a Marketing major with three minors in Italian, Chinese and Southeast Asian Studies. I am the President of two organizations on campus: Chinese Club and Leaders in Ethics and Academic Discipline or LEAD. I also work two jobs one in the Experiential Learning Center in the College of Business as a student worker and I am also a cashier at Michael’s craft store. I love to read and write. I also love going to the movies and seeing whatever is new.

What are you most excited about re. studying abroad?
I’m most excited to stay with a host family in my city of Siena, Italy. I can’t wait to really live with a true Italian family and see how daily life is. I won’t be tempted to speak in English either while I’m there.

What are you most nervous about re. studying abroad?
I’m most nervous about speaking in Italian while I’m there. I know I know the language pretty well, but I haven’t spoken or been in an Italian class for a year and without that constant learning, it’s easy to lose memory.

What are three goals that you would like to achieve/accomplish while abroad?

1. to speak with more ease when I speak in Italian.
2. I want to make a lot of friends.
3. I hope to learn more about Italy and the Italian language and culture while I’m there, which I know won’t be too hard to accomplish.