Author: Logan Williams | Major: Finance and Economics | Semester: Summer 2025
Giving a formal toast at our graduation dinner, in true Italian style
This past summer, I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in Paderno del Grappa, Italy through the CIMBA Italy program. The CIMBA study abroad program made perfect sense to me, as I was aware of the opportunities available to me as an honors student but also knew that leaving the country for an entire semester was not realistic for my college plan. I selected the CIMBA Italy program because the opportunity to study abroad through a four-week summer program aligned perfectly with my degree plan. I was honestly less interested in where the program was located, more so, I was drawn to its incredible reputation within the Walton College and the number of peers and professors connected to it. Overall, I loved the structure and timeline of the program. Studying in a small, rural Italian town with access to a train station and airport that made exploring Europe easy was the perfect way for me to expand my educational horizons. The program was academically rigorous throughout the week. Monday through Thursday, we had a demanding class schedule that included day trips to see Italian businesses firsthand. I’ll admit the classes weren’t a breeze like some study abroad programs are rumored to be. I truly felt that I was growing in my education through the courses I took and, even more so, expanding my business knowledge on a global scale. The particular moments that stood out to me abroad were the real-world experiences that built on what we were learning in the classroom.
Through both of my classes at CIMBA, I had the amazing opportunity to visit a variety of Italian businesses and gain valuable insight into the realities of operations and production in a foreign market. Two of the most notable visits were to La Ceramica and Hausbrandt Trieste 1892 S.p.A. The differing scales of these companies created a clear contrast, but some of my greatest takeaways came from observing the distinct strategies each employs to build a high-quality brand. The best way to describe La Ceramica would be through words like craftsmanship, handmade, and authentic art. With a small team working in a single building from start to finish and minimal automation, La Ceramica could easily be underestimated without knowing the impressive market it serves. Supplying brands like Pottery Barn, Tiffany’s, Williams Sonoma, and Banana Republic, I was continually impressed by the efficiency and care behind their production. In contrast, witnessing the scale at which Hausbrandt Trieste 1892 S.p.A. operates was overwhelming. Utilizing state-of-the-art machinery to roast and package coffee beans, as well as to brew and age beer, Hausbrandt has developed a streamlined process that ensures the consistent production of a high-quality product.
Although these companies exist at opposite ends of the manufacturing spectrum, they share a common dedication to producing the best possible product for their customers. Walking through a storeroom filled with every piece La Ceramica has made over the years, I realized that their work goes beyond simple production, it is truly hand-crafted art. Similarly, hearing the history of the Hausbrandt brand gave me a deep appreciation for their commitment to tradition and the enduring practices that have shaped their legacy.
Beyond academics, this program enhanced my personal life just as much. One of the greatest personal lessons I learned abroad was how to live outside of the hurry. It’s easy to fall into the monotony of a typical school routine, just trying to make it past the next midterm, the weekend, or graduation. The “rat race” mindset, so deeply ingrained in American culture, didn’t fully register for me until I completely removed myself from it. Life in Italy is slow, sometimes frustratingly so. There’s no rush, dinner starts late, and you’ll wait at least 45 minutes for the check. But wow, what a transformative shift in mindset. With this slower pace and an especially insightful masterclass from Dr. Molly Rapert, our Global Consumer class explored how every opportunity, whether a lucky elevator introduction or a difficult challenge, serves as a domino in our professional and personal journey. As Dr. Rapert put it, these moments set off a chain reaction that we can’t always control but one that will lead us where we’re meant to be. Slowing down gave me space to breathe, to be present, and to truly feel grateful. And only by slowing down will I have the ability to understand life as a series of “dominoes.” I hope to let go of that anxious sense of urgency and instead see challenges as purposeful, relationships as valuable, and the present moment as something to be fully lived.
Overall, I am so thankful to be at a university that supports study abroad opportunities so heavily. While CIMBA Italy began as a logistical decision, it became the most influential educational and personal experience I’ve ever had. I am extremely grateful to have experienced it, and I’m excited to see the continued benefits it provides as I near graduation.