From Mississippi to Italy

Professor Valerio Cappozzo

From Mississippi to Italy

By: Cameron Cook

February 23, 2011

On May 27, students will have the ability to pursue their study in Italian by going to Salerno, Italy. This one month study abroad program not only gives Ole Miss students a taste of what it is like to live in Italy, but it allows them to study the language as well.

 Two professors from the university will be supervising the program. One of the professors attending the trip is Italian Professor Valerio Cappozzo.

“This is my first time going on the trip.” Said Cappozzo. “However, it’s the third year of the program.”

Students will be attending Accademia Italiana. Here they will be completing Italian classes involving language, culture and history.

The school is located in a town called Salerno, which is placed on the waters of the Mediterranean. For one month, this will be the primary learning environment for students.

Instead of living in dorms, the students from Oxford stay in local homes. These are Italian families that do not speak a word of English.

Cappozzo then explained how this is a good way to learn the language by living with these people. Also, they cook you good Italian meals continued Cappozzo.

Other then schooling, students will be able to venture around town, head to the beach, shop and even travel to other cities.

“Everything is walking distance in town.” Said Cappozzo. “Students can even take the train to Rome, which is about two hours away.”

Other cities that are visited are Naples, Pompei and the Amalfi Coast.

The cost for the trip is $3,880 dollars, excluding flights to and from Italy. This payment includes tuition, the house to stay in, food, health insurance, and program-sponsored excursions.

By going on this program, each student will have completed six total hours of level 298 Italian. Freshman through Seniors are allowed to go on the trip, but need at least a minimum of Italian 102 completed.

“The greatest thing is completing six hours.” Said Cappozzo. “Instead of learning in the classroom, you can study what your learning in Italy.”

The program runs until June 23, but students are encouraged to stay longer if they can.

“Students should try to stay in Italy for a little bit once they’re finished.” Said Cappozzo. “This way, they can put what they have learned to the test.”

Applications for the study abroad program are due by March 21. The final deadline for the trip is on March 28.