Tayler Trotta, a native of North Platte, Nebraska, is graduating this week with a major in human development and family science and minors in international studies and history. In this Q-&-A she shares about the two weeks she spent in Italy at the beginning of the summer as part of her international studies minor.
What made you interested in the international studies minor?
I became interested in the international studies minor when I figured out that I wanted to teach in an international school. This helped me learn what would be expected of me when abroad and taught me important lessons. These classes ranged from linguistics of language and learning to the cultural aspects of food and nutrition. These classes reinforced what I needed to succeed.
Why did you choose Italy for your study abroad experience?
I chose the Italy abroad experience because it has been a bucket list destination for me for so long, I could not pass up the opportunity! The program was based on the psychology of health in Italy, and learning how other cultures view and practice health has always been so compelling to me.
How did your study abroad experience compare to your expectations?
I started the trip being nervous about what was to come but that quickly changed once we were all there. I went on the trip not knowing anyone but returned home with new friends and awesome experiences. Visiting historical sites and learning about food practices in Italy made me love the culture even more!
What aspects of this experience do you expect to be most beneficial moving forward in your life and career?
Personally, knowing that I can travel by myself was such a boost to confidence. Knowing that I can learn so much from being around locals and hearing what they have to say is where the real experiences come from.
What advice do you have for other students considering a study abroad experience?
If you have the chance, do it, you will not regret it! Depending on where your experience is abroad, be prepared for many modes of transportation. Also, at least when I was in Italy, there was a lot of walking. We walked everywhere on Ischia because everything was within walking distance.
What are your career goals?
My career goal is to become a high school history teacher at an international school. This way I can travel the world and do what I love!
College of Education and Human Sciences
Child, Youth and Family Studies
CEHS Global Experiences
