Nick studied in Viterbo in 2006 as an undergrad at Mount Union College. In 2007, he moved to Washington, DC to work in public relations and pursue a master’s degree from George Washington University. He currently works in the TV news industry doing communications.
Nick recently returned to Viterbo to spend some time in his host city and catch up with our on-site staff. During his visit, he interviewed with the Resident Director for USAC Viterbo, Francesca. Keep reading to hear about (and listen to) his experience.
Why did you choose to study abroad in Viterbo?
It’s hard to say exactly why I chose Viterbo since it’s been so long since I was first (and last) here, but I was definitely set on studying abroad in Italy and the mid-size of Viterbo was certainly appealing as was its proximity to Rome and Florence.
What is your favorite memory from your time abroad?
My favorite memory from study abroad was definitely the friendships I made with the other USAC students, my three Italian roommates and the USAC staff in Viterbo, including current director Francesca del Giudice. I went on to live with one of my fellow USAC students for four years after college and have visited other students, Francesca and Stefano (the former USAC Viterbo director who is now the RD for USAC Lyon) and two of my Italian roommates over the years, as well. Also the organized trips within Central Italy and to the South of Italy were really fantastic. But I’d be remiss to not say that getting to know and love Viterbo was also a top highlight.
What are you up to now?
I’ve lived in Washington, DC for the past 14 year and work in TV news doing communications.
What impact did study abroad have on your life plans?
Study abroad made me realize that where I live and work must have a global component to it.
What skills did you learn during study abroad?
I certainly learned how to rely on and trust in myself, to be open to new experiences and to get outside my comfort zone often.
What made you decide to return to Viterbo?
This is my first time back to Viterbo in 15 years. I have since visited Italy but never made it back to Viterbo. So it’s really wonderful to reconnect with the city with fresh eyes and perspective, to see what’s new and what’s the same, and to reconnect with old friends like Francesca.
How has the city changed?
I’m not sure the city has changed too much since I was here 15 years ago. Certainly there are new stores and restaurants and there’s no longer several Internet cafés scattered around town. But the streets and piazzas all have that same charm as they did in 2006.
What advice do you have for future students?
My biggest piece of advice for students interested in study abroad is to do it. You will rarely have opportunities like this to live internationally for such an extended period of time. I’d also recommend that they talk to former participants and to spend a concerted amount of time thinking through where exactly they’d most like to study abroad.
