“Everyone should go on a Travel Study Like This” — STUdents Reflect on 2025 Italy Travel-Study
For three weeks this summer, students enrolled in Introduction to Italian Civilization were immersed in their course material through a Travel Study opportunity that took them to Venice, Florence, Rome, Vatican City, Pompeii, as well as the islands of Murano and Burano.
Along with their professor, Dr. Mark Temelini, Romance Languages, students were able to explore the artistic and cultural beauty of Italy—as a country and as an influence on Western civilization, as well as the humanities.
STUdent Alexis Falconer, who studies Sociology and Criminology and Criminal Justice called the opportunity “once in a lifetime.”
"Seeing and experiencing different cultures is a blessing, and something I did not take for granted. My time in Italy was educational and experiential. I've always had the goal to travel, and this was the best way to do it," said Falconer.
"We got to visit amazing historical sites and famous views—all while being led and educated by Dr. Temelini. He was able to teach us the history of Italy and the Romans while also showing us his favourite places."
Travel Study: Adding Depth to a University Experience
MayaVeye Walker-Titus, who studies Anthropology at STU, said the trip provided added depth to her overall university experience.
"As I enter my fourth year at STU, I feel as though I have completed a well-rounded university experience not only through academic growth in the classroom, but also through the personal development I experienced during my Travel Study," she said.
During the trip, STUdents had the opportunity to explore independently, allowing for a unique immersion into Italian art, architecture, cuisine, history, religion, music, fashion, and current events.
"Everyone should go on a Travel Study like this," said Walker-Titus.
"Beyond the photos and the stories, I learned some fundamental lessons about myself on the trip that cannot really be learned except through experience."
Interested in the 2026 Italy Travel Study?
Information on Italy Travel Study 2026 will be available in the coming weeks. STUdents may contact Dr. Mark Temelini at temelini@stu.ca for more info.
Travel Study
STU’s Travel Study program offers students the opportunity to visit another country for three to four weeks with a professor, using the local setting and culture as materials, earning course credit which counts toward degree requirements.