Living in a palace in Italy for three months is an opportunity that only a few people can experience. Fortunately, I had the privilege to be part of Joseph S. Bruno, a studying abroad program that gives students the opportunity to immerse themselves into the Italian culture and be part of transformative experiences. As a graduate teaching assistant, I witnessed first-hand how much of an impact the program had in every single student. 

Being an international student, I was already expecting for students to feel homesick and for some to be challenge out of their comfort zones. A couple of years ago I was in a similar position as them when I decided to move to the United States and study my master’s degree in Auburn. Therefore, I was glad that I was able to guide them and advise them throughout the semester. It was a unique feeling as I felt I was their friend but also everyone’s big sister. Every student grew in different ways, and I was overcome with a sense of pride when together we found solutions to their problems or if they improved their mood after having a conversation with me.

It is true that I am well-traveled and that this was not my first long-term international experience. Nevertheless, students weren’t the only ones that faced different challenges. I am an only child and taking on the responsibility of the well-being of fourteen students was not an easy task. However, I was surprised with myself on how comfortable I was assuming the leadership position. One of the days I experienced a significant amount of personal growth was the second week being in Italy when we came back from an excursion to Bologna. I was in charge of making sure everyone made it back to Ariccia safely and in a timely manner. We had to take a public bus from the hotel to the main train station of Bologna and then two connecting trains. My experience with taking trains was limited because back in my country they do not exists. Nevertheless, I paid attention to the instructions given by Lydia, the program director, and made sure everyone was on time to take the bus and the trains.

That day I learned the importance of paying attention to detail, listening to others, punctuality, and shared responsibility. The successful return to the Chigi Palace could not only be attributed to my leadership skills but also the student’s willingness to listen and follow instructions played a crucial role to our accomplishment. It amazed me how even though the students and I had only met for a week, we had mutual trust.

Despite our differences, me not being from the United States, English not being my first language, not having their same skin color, and having different cultures, they all confided in me, trusted me and accepted me as their leader. My experience illustrates how if people are open, willing to listen, and work with each other, then differences become insignificant. I am extremely grateful to them and to all the people that gave me the opportunity to be part of this amazing experience here in Italy.

– Yasmine Adamali, Graduate Teaching Assistant Spring 2024

My first picture together with all the students. We were all learning about roman history, art, and architecture.