Double Major: Italian Studies and Communication (Magna Cum Laude)
Ciao a tutti! I double majored magna cum laude in both Communication and Italian. The majority of my family lives in Sicily. Rutgers provided me with amazing opportunities to fully encompass my studies and passions while staying connected to my Italian roots.
Here at Rutgers, the professors and students within the department became family. With guidance from my Italian professors, I was able to redesign my study program from a minor to a major in Italian. Having only been to Sicily, studying abroad in Urbino allowed me to fully embrace, compare, and contrast the different unique regions of Italy, while recognizing unity among them.
Conversing in Italian at a collegiate level really helped me push myself to realize my full potential. I encourage all students to become involved from the beginning, and take advantage of any opportunities presented along the way.
Why did you choose Italian as your major? What did you like most about it?
I chose Italian as a major because I am very passionate about my culture. I love how close knit our Italian community became. The strong relationships fostered among both my peers and professors created an amazing environment to learn and grow. Rutgers provided me with the opportunity to travel and expand my studies through immersion in the heart of Italy. I have been blessed to experience Italy as a home but also through my studies.
What is your current position, what do you, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I currently work as a Lead Inside Account Executive at a global IT company. I help manage reps on my team as well as support New Jersey Local governments. It is a great international company that embraces teamwork and encourages growth.
What was your first job after Rutgers and how did you get it?
Inside Account Executive was my first position within the company. After 2 years, I was promoted to Team Lead for the East region in Public Sector. I am constantly setting goals for myself and am passionate about connecting with others to motivate and push each other to succeed through authentic communication.
How did you move from that first job to your current position?
I set goals for myself and worked really hard to meet and exceed any work requirements to show that I am dedicated. My hard work, loyalty, and respect showed through my efforts and management acknowledged my versatility and passion to help others.
Looking back, what classes or experiences at Rutgers would you point to as contributing to your successes?
Honestly, all of the Italian classes I took contributed to my successes. Working closely with the professors in every class showed me how much they care. Taking the language courses were critical in learning the basics of the language, midlevel courses contributed to developing language skills, to taking complex courses that challenged not only my language but encouraged critical thinking and awareness of Italy’s history and current news.
What advice do you have for our current Arts and Sciences students?
I will never forget my first interaction with the Italian Department at a Major/Minor fair on College Ave. Professor Marino Forlino had the biggest smile on his face, and welcomed me to learn more about the programs available. He had opened my eyes to pursue my culture as a career. I strongly encourage all students to communicate and explore all resources available from the beginning! The administration is wonderful and the professors are so knowledgeable. Embrace the changes that come along but it is up to you to create your path---the Rutgers community will always be there for you.
