Ciao! My name is John Coppola and I am a Nutritional Science Major at the University of Connecticut. I am in the Sustainable Food and Environmental Systems Program at ISI.

Florence, to me, is a city of opportunities. There is always something to do or participate in, which makes it the most unique place I have ever been to. So far I have had the pleasure of volunteering as an assistant baseball coach for the Florence Little League Team. It’s an eye-opening experience! As I came to Italy in hopes of fully embodying another culture, the middle of the city is tourist friendly and most people speak English. Coaching the Little League team is giving me the opportunity to experience what I was hoping for. Past the city walls, it is rare to find an English speaking person, which forces me to adapt and use all my knowledge to try to communicate with the kids, helping me learn the language faster and with ease. Although it has only been a few weeks, helping to assist the baseball team is truly allowing me to help fulfil my goals. It’s not easy but it’s definitely worth it!
Finally, I could not have participated in ISI’s Study Abroad Program without the generosity of the Tartaglia family, as they awarded me with the Marc and Lois Tartaglia Memorial Scholarship. If it was not for them, I wouldn’t be able to experience this amazing opportunity. So, “grazie mille”!

John Coppola, UConn