Author: Gillian Berry | Major: Marketing | Semester: Summer 2025
Pink Church in Ljubljana with Jenna, Maggie, and Keelie!
This past summer I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Paderno del Grappa, Italy, through the CIMBA study abroad program. Through my time there, four weeks from mid-May to mid-June, I made unforgettable memories. I’ve always been fascinated by Italy and dreamed of visiting from the time I was little. I dreamed of visiting the beautiful cities like Rome and wanted to experience the rich culture it has to offer. I was originally going to apply for the Rome center through the University of Arkansas but was later introduced to CIMBA. I was drawn in by the small town environment and close-knit community formed with fellow classmates. What convinced me was the glowing reviews from past participants and teachers who praised the academics and the overall experience.
Through the CIMBA program, I earned six credit hours of upper-level electives towards my degree in Marketing. One of the most impactful courses was International Marketing, where we discussed how different cultures, with a strong focus on Italy, navigate the business and marketing landscape. Over the course of this class, we worked on introducing an American product into the Italian market and learning all the complexities surrounding that. It offered amazing insights into different cultures and the niche areas of culture that can impact if a product thrives or dies in another country. It was extremely thought provoking not only about other cultures but also within myself and American culture. My professor, Sarah Grace, had an amazing perspective and helped me further understand how to immerse myself into another culture. Each weekend, CIMBA students were encouraged to travel and explore on their own. On the first weekend, I joined a group heading to Verona. It was not too far from where we were located and I was nervous being inexperienced with independent travel so it felt perfect. However, Italy is well known for strikes in their public transit system and we had the pleasure of experiencing this. It was an intimidating situation but with the support of CIMBA staff and by trusting our ability to problem-solve we successively made it to Verona. This experience was a great way to build confidence in solo-travel abilities which really helped for the rest of the weekends.
The second weekend we traveled to Pula, Croatia, which was filled with gorgeous views and experiences. One highlight was the boat tour along the coast where we got to see crystal-clear waters and beautiful landscape. There was also a Saturday market where Croatianlocals were dressed as ancient Romans which added a unique cultural experience. It was fairly easy to get there by booking a shuttle service, a much needed change from the travel issues experienced getting to Verona the previous weekend. The final weekend, we traveled to Slovenia which was by far my favorite weekend. We started out at Lake Bled, an hour out of where we stayed in Ljubljana. The lake was gorgeous, surrounded by mountains with a charming island in the middle. To get to the island, we rode in a traditional Slovenian boat which was an amazing experience. Then, of course, we tried the famous Bled cream cake which was as delicious as promised. The next day we explored Ljubljana which was amazing. On Saturday mornings there is a bustling market featuring everything from fresh produce and baked goods to handmade souvenirs and clothing.
My biggest advice for future study abroad students is to thoroughly research the program you’re considering. Choose based on what aligns with your interest and goals, not just where it is most popular or where friends are going. While the CIMBA program offered a close-knit community and academic value, I realized I would have personally benefited from being in a larger city such as Rome or another cultural hub. It would have provided me with the cultural experience I was expecting and was hoping for. Even if students aren’t at the right program, make the most of it. Don’t say no even if it feels outside your comfort zone. Try new things and push yourself. It is important to try and live this experience with the mindset of “no regrets”.