This past spring, Dr. Jennifer Naccarelli returned to the Syracuse Florence campus to visit her daughter, who was following in her footsteps and doing a semester with our program. In addition to teaching, Jennifer trains students in gender-based violence advocacy. She told us how her semester in Florence changed the course of her life.
You were a women’s studies and religious studies major. Please tell us about how Professor Sara Matthews-Grieco’s class impacted you.
I am currently an associate professor of Women & Gender Studies at the University of Delaware. I credit my time in the Florence program with this career trajectory. While in Florence, I primarily took Women’s Studies courses and my experience with Prof. Sara Matthews Grieco inspired me to attend graduate school. She was the first faculty to introduce me to archival research—I was fascinated by the prospect of using historical documents to better understand the experiences of early modern women. Her course connected the past and the present in ways I wanted to emulate.
You remembered meeting your host mom in room 13 of the Villa Rossa. Why would you recommend that students have the host family experience?
The host family experience enabled me to be more adventurous because I felt like I had a safety net. They never limited my behavior, travel, or socialization rather just gave me advice for how to navigate Europe. It was comforting to know that someone local was expecting my arrival home. The Cocciolli family spoiled us and provided beautiful accommodations. Every morning and evening we shared delicious meals with the family. I never had to worry about linens, laundry, or other domestic tasks. My time with them ensured that I developed Italian language skills. They were wonderful, and I quickly felt like Florence was home.
What did you like best about the Syracuse Florence program?
The Villa Rossa! It was so special to have a magnificent home base in the heart of Florence. So many wonderful memories took place in the courtyard. Additionally, I loved meeting the students from other universities. I keep in touch with many of the friends I made during one brief semester.
How has Florence changed since you studied here?
Florence is still the beautiful and welcoming city that it was in 1994. The biggest change is in the size of the crowds.
Any advice for current students?
Try not to travel every weekend. In fact, consider limiting travel to every third weekend. I understand the peer pressure to fly all over Europe, but constantly being on the go is exhausting and expensive. It hinders your ability to settle into your lifestyle and community in Florence. There are adventures to be had in Florence and the nearby communities that are easy to miss if you are constantly traveling to other countries. Be present and soak it all in.