Study Abroad, Perfected: Immersing in the Heart of Italy with ieiMedia
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Dr. Barry T. Janes |
Picture this: the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow on a charming courtyard in Urbino. Laughter rings out as a group of locals gather for an evening of friendly competition. You, a curious student abroad, are beckoned to join in the ancient Italian game of Morra.
Four people in Urbino, Italy, playing the ancient game of Morra.
Two players face off, hands held behind their backs. With a playful shout, they both reveal their hands, fingers outstretched, simultaneously calling out their prediction for the total number of fingers displayed. The air crackles with excitement as guesses fly, laughter erupts, and playful accusations of cheating fill the air.
Study abroad programs have long been lauded as transformative experiences, offering students a chance to step outside their comfort zones, broaden their horizons, and gain a global perspective. However, not all study abroad programs are created equal. Some can feel like glorified vacations, filled with sightseeing tours and superficial encounters with the host culture. Others may prioritize academic rigor but leave students feeling isolated and disconnected from the local community. ieiMedia in Urbino, Italy, offers a different kind of study abroad experience — one that strikes a perfect balance between academic excellence and cultural immersion. Here, students don’t just learn about Italy; they live it.
Beyond the Tourist Trail: Connecting With Real People and Real Life
ieiMedia students capture the Morra action for a story they will produce.
As the evening progresses, the game intensifies, fueled by the camaraderie and good-natured rivalry. The setting sun paints the sky in hues of orange and purple, and the clinking of glasses signals the arrival of food and wine. You, once an observer, are now an active participant, fully immersed in the moment, your laughter mingling with the locals. You grab your camera and begin to record the activities.
What you are watching is not just a game; it's a cultural exchange, a glimpse into the heart of Italian social life. The rapid-fire pace, the playful banter, the shared joy of the moment – these are the intangible elements that make studying abroad with ieiMedia in Urbino a truly transformative experience. It's in these unscripted moments, away from the tourist trail, that you truly connect with the people and culture, forging memories that will last a lifetime.
ieiMedia students taking a break from shooting to enjoy some food and drink with locals.
The game of Morra, steeped in centuries of tradition, becomes a microcosm of the broader cultural immersion that ieiMedia fosters. It's a testament to the program's commitment to providing students with authentic, meaningful experiences that transcend the typical study abroad clichés. Through such interactions, students not only learn about Italian culture but also develop invaluable skills like cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and spontaneity.
ieiMedia students taking a break from shooting to enjoy some food and drink with locals.
In Urbino, students don't just visit historical landmarks; they interact with the people who bring those landmarks to life. They don't just study Italy in a classroom; they immerse themselves in bustling markets and cozy cafes. They don't just read about Italian culture; they participate in it, forming meaningful connections with locals and gaining a deep appreciation for the country's rich traditions.
A Living Classroom: Learning Beyond the Textbook
A member of Italy’s National Bocce team bowling the ball.
Imagine this: You're not just snapping photos and recording video of the Italian National Bocce team; you're on assignment, tasked with crafting a compelling video story about their recent triumph in international competition. Camera in hand, you capture the intensity of their practice sessions, the camaraderie among teammates, and the subtle strategies that led them to victory.
ieiMedia students interviewing members of the Italian National Bocce Team
Later, you conduct interviews with players that delve into their personal stories, their passion for the sport, and the cultural significance of bocce in Italy. After the official practice, you're invited out with the team to share food and drink with them at a local trattoria. More pictures, more stories and a greater sense of the game and the people who play it.
ieiMedia students interviewing members of the Italian National Bocce Team
Later, you meticulously review the footage, carefully selecting the most impactful moments and weaving them into a narrative that not only showcases the team's skill but also captures the spirit of the game and its place in Italian culture. As you add music, graphics, and narration, you're not just editing a video; you're crafting a piece for your portfolio, a testament to your storytelling abilities and cross-cultural communication skills.
This hands-on experience is far more than just an academic exercise. It's a real-world opportunity to develop essential skills that will set you apart in the competitive media landscape. You're learning to navigate cultural nuances, conduct interviews, and tell a compelling story through the lens of a camera. You're gaining practical experience in video production, from shooting and editing to storytelling and post-production.
ieiMedia students grabbing a selfie with Italy’s National Bocce Ball team members.
When you graduate and embark on your career journey, this project will be more than just a line on your resume. It will be a tangible demonstration of your adaptability, your cultural fluency, and your ability to thrive in an international setting. It will showcase your passion for storytelling and your commitment to capturing the human experience, whether it's on a bocce court in Urbino or a bustling street in Shanghai.
In an increasingly globalized world, employers are seeking candidates who possess not only technical skills but also the cultural intelligence and adaptability to navigate diverse environments. The ieiMedia experience in Urbino provides students with precisely these qualities, empowering them to stand out in the job market and embark on fulfilling careers in the media industry and beyond.
The Benefits of Cultural Immersion: A Lasting Impact
In a world that is increasingly interconnected, the ability to navigate different cultures and perspectives is more important than ever. ieiMedia's immersive approach to study abroad equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in a globalized society. It's not just about earning credits or adding a line to your resume; it's about embracing a transformative experience that will shape your worldview and inspire you for years to come.
Would you like to join us?
Get started on your journey with ieiMedia by submitting the GET STARTED FORM. We’ll follow up with you to answer any questions you have about programs of interest, help with registration for an info session, and review your submission for eligibility for our programs and scholarship opportunities. If you have any questions regarding this form, please reach out to admissions@ieimedia.com.
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