Reflections and Salutations --Robert Guarino

When the study abroad program came to my attention in December of 2005, I didn't hesitate to sign up. In America my impression of Italy never really included Sicily. It was foreign to me that this island could be so beautiful, so rich, so fertile and so ancient. I did not comprehend what it could be like out here in Taormina. I was far from an optimist, and expected much less than what actually came about. During the spring semester at MSU, I had no knowledge of which I was sharing the trip, and how the classes would reflect on the Italian culture, and language. Yet, combining the two types of learning in Babolonia, with an array of teachers all having energetic personalities, school became fun rather than a chor. The international classmates give it a flare, while you all share one thing in common for about 2 hours a day. And then you find out you have more in common with that person as you begin to converse with them over a Panini and a Moretti after class. The Italian culture exposes foreigners to indulge in once in a lifetime experiences, including meeting international friends, traveling along coastlines and touring ancient cathedrals, walking at night (fare un passagato) and even just eating the most incredible meal one night after another. The precious views at Isola Bella will last forever in you mind. But none of this is reflective unless one can understand the concept of Sicilian culture. While studying at Babolonia, you can pick up some important Italian phrases, along with grammar, and live the culture by taking a week and studying the vegetables and minerals that this fertile land produces and have produced for centuries. The town of Taormina is stunning. The history that precedes this town is blended between Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arabic influence, and now most well know as a tourist town, people can view the different cultures and learn how this city remained through the last 2000 years. Babolonia Universita in Taormina and Montclair State University should continue to straighten ties, and should absolutely continue the program as is. Offering students to obtain a complete knowledge of Sicily's background in History 401 with Dr. Hayes, which you will find is one of the most interesting classes you will ever take. Then adding the essence of Babolonia, and touring and seeing what you just learned can not be topped. The whole experience is life changing, and when you return you will have gained knowledge you never thought you would gain. I would like to thank those who made this happen for the first group of Montclair State students to reach the Italian Island known as Sicily. I would like to thank those who made this happen for the first group of Montclair State students to reach the Italian Island known as Sicily. And a special Thank You to Dr. Dawn Hayes Dr. Nancy Carnevale Salute! -- Robert Guarino