Touring the Colosseum.
Name: Eamon Jeansonne | Majors: Accounting, Supply Chain Management | Semester: Summer 2025
This summer, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Italy as part of the IMAcc Global Immersion trip for accounting majors. Our group visited both Rome and Milan during the Summer 2025 term, and the program was specifically designed to connect accounting students with international business experiences. I was drawn to the trip as soon as it was announced because of its clear focus on real-world applications for my major. Italy’s rich history, cultural depth, and economic complexity made it a fascinating place to explore global business practices.
The academic component of the program centered around visits to major firms, regulatory bodies, and innovation hubs. We met with professionals from Ernst & Young (EY), CONSOB (Italy’s equivalent of the SEC), Wurth Group, Cariplo Factory, and even had the chance to speak with the founder of SQUP, a startup gelato company. These visits weren’t just tours. They were in-depth conversations that allowed us to ask questions, take notes, and apply what we were learning in real time.
Much of our academic work revolved around creating and refining presentations. Our assignments were intentionally fluid so we could constantly update our slide decks with new insights from each visit. This structure kept things exciting and engaging. We weren’t just sitting in classrooms. We were on the move, adapting our thinking with each new interaction.
The most impactful visit for me was our time with CONSOB. The team there had a deep and nuanced understanding of capital markets and financial regulation. It wasn’t just impressive, it was inspiring. We were able to have real conversations with professionals who are directly shaping Italy’s financial landscape. It gave me a new appreciation for the broader role accountants and financial experts can play in supporting sustainable economic systems and enforcing transparency.
Outside of the academic schedule, we had time to explore and enjoy Italy as well. One of the most memorable moments came during our free day, when the entire study abroad group took a trip to Lake Como and some visited Villa del Balbianello. We spent time out on a boat cruising the lake, soaking in the views of the surrounding mountains and scenic towns. It felt like something out of a movie. The trip gave us a chance to relax, connect with each other, and experience a more peaceful side of Italian life.
My advice to any students thinking about studying abroad is simple: have an open mind and go with the flow. Some of the best parts of the trip weren’t scheduled on an itinerary. In Rome, you can walk for ten minutes and stumble upon buildings that are thousands of years old, or find a hidden cafe or courtyard that makes you want to stop and stay a while. There’s so much to see, and part of the fun is discovering things as you go. Be flexible, and don’t stress about having every second planned. The best memories often come from unexpected moments.
Studying abroad gave me more than just course credit. It gave me insight into how business operates on a global scale and helped me grow personally. I came back more confident, more curious, and more open to new experiences. I saw how accounting knowledge can translate across borders and how cultural context shapes everything from regulatory practices to how people collaborate in the workplace.
If you’re considering studying abroad, especially through a program related to your major, I can’t recommend it enough. You’ll learn a lot, meet incredible people, and come home with experiences that will stay with you long after the plane lands.