Exploring the streets where the Disney film “Luca” was inspired
Author: Alex Maldonado-Lopez | Major: Public Health | Semester: May Intersession 2023
When I chose to embark on a study abroad program focused on the Reggio Emilia approach to early-childhood education, I had a deep curiosity to explore a world beyond my own and connect it to my academic and professional goals. This program not only met those expectations but exceeded them in ways I could have never imagined.
The decision to choose this program was driven by many, many factors. As an aspiring physician with a developing passion for pediatrics, I wanted to learn about the importance of early-childhood education in shaping the lives of children. Afterall, that’s a large portion of a child’s life – schooling. The Reggio Emilia approach, renowned for its child-centered philosophy and emphasis on creativity and critical thinking, aligned with my goals. I wanted to delve deeper into the techniques and principles that foster a love of learning in children, and this program offered me a firsthand experience to do just that.
This study abroad experience has significantly advanced my academic and professional goals. As someone with a strong foundation in psychology and an interest in child development, the program provided a unique opportunity to bridge what I had learned with the real world. By immersing myself in the working classrooms and interacting with teachers in a different culture, I gained invaluable insights into the effectiveness of this approach. It deepened my understanding of the process of nurturing young minds, hopefully making me a more knowledgeable physician someday.
The classes and instructors during the program were exceptional. The mode of learning went beyond traditional lectures, allowing us to engage with local educators, visit educational institutions, and observe the Reggio Emilia approach in action. Our professors facilitated meaningful discussions daily, empowering us to take the lead in exploring critical questions. Their hands-off approach allowed us to develop a genuine connection with the material and encouraged independent thinking, similar to the approach we were there to study!
The Reggio Emilia study abroad program not only enriched my academic journey but also enhanced my personal growth. It instilled in me a profound appreciation for the role it plays in shaping future generations. This program equipped me with the knowledge and skills to create a positive impact in the lives of children, reinforcing my commitment to pursuing pediatrics and inspiring me to become an advocate for innovative educational approaches.
However, the trip was worth every bit not only because of the academia. The destination (Rome and Reggio Emilia) was incredibly rich with food, culture, and history. Whether it was resisting the incredible urge to cut my pizza into slices, nerding out at the Roman forum, or accidentally exploring the mountains of Cinque Terra, time outside of class was adequate and rich. I can’t describe the feeling of appreciation I had every minute I was in Italy for their incredibly different yet amazing culture. I’d also like to quickly shoutout the walkability of their cities!
I cannot recommend this program enough. This trip, although short, presents everything good about what studying abroad is. I would encourage future students to venture out into the cities on your own before sunset, pack lighter than you think you should, and, when you get home, enjoy every bit of air conditioning you can soak up. Peace!