For 16 Western New England University students, this summer’s lessons unfolded against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, centuries-old ruins, and bustling Italian city streets. Through the University’s Summer in Sorrento study abroad program, students immersed themselves in Italian culture while earning six academic credits in courses focusing on international business communication and cultural understanding.
Led by Professional Educator of Communication Brenda Garton-Sjoberg, the three-week program blends classroom instruction with experiential learning, giving students the opportunity to explore destinations including Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and the Palace of Caserta while examining how history, culture, and communication influence the global business environment.
“The goal of the program is to help students see the world through a broader lens,” said Garton-Sjoberg. “By living and learning in another country, they develop cross-cultural communication skills, adaptability, and confidence that simply can’t be replicated in a traditional classroom. Watching students make these connections firsthand is one of the most rewarding parts of leading this amazing experience.”
For Alexander Gatto, the program transformed the way he thinks about learning.
“This has been the most interesting course I have ever taken,” Gatto said. “Going out to a different country and viewing different sites is by far the best way to learn. We traveled throughout Naples and the Amalfi Coast, learning how Italy differs from the United States from both a cultural and business perspective.”
Beyond academics, the experience fostered independence and personal discovery.
“This program has also allowed me to experience what it is like to both travel and live on my own,” Gatto added. “It has been eye-opening and extremely valuable. I got to experience Italy for the first time and connect with a culture that my family originates from. This has been a priceless experience that I hope many other students will be able to participate in.”
Dalton Cronin described the study abroad experience as life changing.
“The immersive experience is something unique to studying abroad because we continue learning outside of a traditional classroom,” Cronin said. “Whether we were on the Amalfi Coast or exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii, the lessons stayed with me long after we left. I truly think that this time in Italy has changed me for the better, and I mean for the rest of my life.”
Cronin also noted that the program strengthened his communication skills and self-confidence.
“Not only were the academics helpful in making me more comfortable with public speaking, but this trip taught me things I didn’t know I needed to learn,” he said. “It challenged me in ways that will benefit me both personally and professionally.”
For Emily Levesque, seeing history come alive made a lasting impression.
“Visiting Pompeii and the Palace of Caserta left me speechless,” Levesque said. “Experiences like that brought what we were learning in class to life and gave me a new perspective on the subjects we studied.”
She also credits the experience with preparing her for the future.
“This experience has helped me become more independent, adaptable, and confident,” Levesque said. “Living in another country challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, navigate unfamiliar situations, and connect with people from different backgrounds. The friendships, experiences, and lessons I have gained are ones I will carry with me long after returning home.”
The Sorrento Summer Study Abroad at the Sant’Anna Institute reflects Western New England University’s commitment to providing transformative educational experiences that extend beyond campus. By combining rigorous academics with cultural immersion, students return with expanded worldviews, stronger communication skills, and practical experience navigating an increasingly interconnected global society.
Since the first travel class in 2016, this annual trip to Italy offers more than a destination—it becomes a catalyst for growth where Golden Bears become family through an unforgettable chapter in their Western New England journey.
