Seventeen Eastern Connecticut State University students experienced the trip of a lifetime over the summer: six weeks in Florence, Italy, studying creative writing. Led by seasoned Italian visitor and professor Christopher Torockio, the Creative Writing Abroad course allowed students to explore Italian culture while writing a short story and completing a workshop with peers.
Among the students was Molly Boucher '23 of Bethel, a senior majoring in Social Work.
Partnering with Florence University of the Arts (FUA), students were given the opportunity to live among locals in classic Italian apartments, explore Tuscany through several day trips, and receive guided tours of Florence through different lenses, including vintage fashion, food and wine, and architecture.
"Our students fully embraced the lively atmosphere and immersed themselves in the Italian culture and Florence's stunning Renaissance art," said Torockio. "The result was not only an unforgettable international experience, but the complete cultural immersion provided inspiration for some of the most accomplished, innovative, and life-affirming works of fiction ever to emerge from this course and trip, making for some truly lively workshop discussions."
While students reaped the expected outcomes of studying abroad, such as independence and exploring a new culture, many found themselves coming home with connections they never expected. Through experiences such as family dinners hosted by Torockio and his family, and cultivating friendships with locals, students returned with memories and relationships that will stay with them for years to come.