Global Ambassadors

University of Notre Dame, Fremantle - Fall

Madeline Margiotta  | Nursing

Hi! My name is Madeline Margiotta and I am a senior nursing major. I studied abroad in Australia during the fall 2024 semester. Studying abroad gave me the chance to step outside of my comfort zone, meet incredible friends and experience a whole new way of living. During my time abroad, I loved exploring new countries and cities, relaxing at the beach and going on hikes with amazing views. Outside of academics, I am a member of Phi Sigma Sigma sorority, the Student Nurses Association and the SHU Dance Ensemble. I also enjoy staying active, traveling and cooking! I'd love to share my experience and help answer any questions you might have about what it's really like to study abroad!

University of Notre Dame, Fremantle - Spring

Matt Eberle  | Marketing

Hi! My name is Matt Eberle. I am a senior marketing major from New Providence, New Jersey. I did the two-week program in Dingle at the end of my sophomore year. In the spring of 2025, I was able to study abroad for the semester in Australia. Studying abroad forced me to step outside of my comfort zone and broaden my horizons. I was able to travel to different countries over the semester and make friends with people from around the world. I immersed myself in the culture and took advantage of every opportunity I was given. I think that everyone should take advantage of studying abroad at SHU and explore the world.

Global Luxury Retailing in Paris - Summer

Samantha Marinelli | Fashion Marketing and Merchandising

Hi! I'm Sam Marinelli and I am a fashion marketing & merchandising major with a minor in digital marketing from Westchester, NY. I also am a member of Kappa Delta Sorority and Fashion Club. This summer I got to study global luxury retailing abroad in Paris, France, for two weeks. When I signed up, I was nervous about leaving the country for the first time, but I am so happy that I decided to go and experience how beautiful France truly is. From visiting Versailles, the Dior Museum, shopping and dining on French cuisine, I got to see so many different aspects of French culture and the luxury fashion industry. This experience not only broadened my global perspective but also deepened my passion for pursuing a career in fashion. I hope to encourage others to step out of their comfort zone and explore what studying abroad has to offer!

Hellenic American University | Athens  - Summer

Natalie Aiello | Neuroscience

Alessia Mauro | Psychology

Hi, my name is Alessia, I'm a senior psychology major with a social work minor and I'm from Staten Island, New York. A fun fact about me is that I have dual citizenship and I speak Italian as well. Some things I like and enjoy doing are dance, writing, painting, fashion and going for coffee. I am a part of the dance program, Greek life, psychology club and Italian club, which I do the social media for. I studied abroad during summer 2025 in Athens, Greece. I am beyond grateful for the amazing experience I had and wouldn't trade it for the world. I was able to experience the Greek culture all around and see the mesmerizing sights alongside one of my roommates and was also able to meet several different people from all around. I also got the opportunity to visit some of the Greek islands, a great experience I enjoyed and will never forget.

SHU Dingle - Fall

Emily Butler | Strategic Communication, Public Relations & Advertising

Hi! I’m Emily Butler, a Strategic Communications, Public Relations, and Advertising major with a minor in Digital Marketing. In Fall 2023, I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland, and it truly changed my life. I met some of my closest friends, learned from incredible professors, and soaked up wisdom from the welcoming locals. From engaging excursions and late-night chats with friends, to traveling around Europe, every day felt like an adventure. Studying abroad taught me how to embrace new perspectives, take risks, and find joy in the little moments. As a Global Ambassador, I’m excited to share my Dingle experience and help other students see just how rewarding stepping into the unknown can be.

Lauren Conley | Biology & Theatre Arts

Hi Everyone! My name is Lauren Conley! I am Senior Biology (pre-med) and Theatre Arts double major with minors in chemistry, nutrition, and honors. I am from Basking Ridge, NJ. I studied abroad the fall of my sophomore year (Fall ‘23) in Dingle, Ireland and this past summer, I had the opportunity to go back to Dingle for the 2 week summer program! I am so excited to be back as a global ambassador for the 2025-2026 school year! Going abroad was one of the most influential semesters throughout my time at SHU so I am very excited to help others get an amazing experience too! One piece of advice is to be open to everything! Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions about Dingle - it truly is “the best place on Earth”!

Rachel Donnelly | Communication Disorders

Hi! My name is Rachel Donnelly and I am a communication disorders major with a psychology minor. I've studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland, for the fall 2023 semester and summer 2025 short term programs. I'm also involved in ASL club, dance ensemble, Kappa Alpha Theta, and NSSLHA here on campus. I love to travel and studying abroad was the perfect blend of tying in culture with academics, along with forming the best friendships. Between the food, music, and excursions there are many ways to immerse yourself and make the most of your experience. I also had the opportunity to travel to other places during my time abroad including England, Italy, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Studying abroad has allowed me to learn more about myself and if you are considering it, take that chance and you won't regret it.

Sabrina Ingrisano | Sports Communication & Media

Hi! My name is Sabrina Ingrisano, and I’m a Senior from Long Island, New York. I’m majoring in Sports Communication & Media with a minor in Marketing. I studied abroad for the fall semester of my sophomore year in Dingle, Ireland. I absolutely loved my time abroad! I got to experience a new culture, travel, and meet new friends. One of my favorite parts was my internship I had. I did social media marketing for the Dingle Sea Safari and Dingle Food Festival. It was a great experience and I learned so much. Other parts I loved were all the excursions we got to do! We went horseback riding, surfing, Irish rowing, kayaking, hiking, and so much more! I had an amazing experience and met so many new friends! 

Caitlin McGorry | Marketing

My name is Caitlin and I am a Senior Marketing major from Queens, NY. In Fall of 2023, I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland and it was the absolute best decision I have ever made. I grew up Irish Dancing and almost all of my family are from Ireland, so I knew I wanted to experience living there if I had the opportunity. I have always loved traveling, spending time with friends, and exploring new hobbies, so the SHU in Dingle program was the perfect mix for me. My favorite part of the program was immersing myself into the culture of a small coastal town and becoming familiar with the local way of life. While abroad, I wanted to make sure I was pursuing my career goals, so I took on a Marketing Internship with Murphy's Ice Cream of Dingle. That experience was so insightful and really helped extend my learning of international marketing, and I encourage others to intern abroad if they can. Studying in Dingle gave me the best friends and memories I could have ever asked for and I would suggest it to anyone who wants to go!

Caitlin Murtagh | Marketing

Hi, my name is Caitlin Murtagh and I am from Long Island, NY. I am a Marketing major with a minor in Sports Management and Digital Marketing. I had the great opportunity to study abroad in Dingle, Ireland for the 2023 Fall Semester. During my time in Ireland, I was able to participate in a marketing internship for a local hotel which was an amazing experience to help me learn more about marketing, sales, and public relations. Living in a small town, you are easily able to immerse yourself in the community and its Irish culture and food. There were so many fun activities to experience like kayaking, holding a baby lamb, and enjoying a sea safari. I was also lucky to travel to London and Rome with friends and family. This was an experience that I will never forget and has created lifelong memories!

SHU Dingle - Spring

Emma D'Entremont | English

Hi my name is Emma D’Entremont and I’m an English major with minors in Film and Television, Honors, and Irish Studies. During the spring semester of my sophomore year, I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland. I loved exploring the scenery and culture of Dingle. This experience deepened my appreciation for Ireland's beauty, and enhanced my understanding of Irish traditions and history, leading me to pick up an Irish Studies minor! The best part of the SHU Dingle program is it allows college education to coincide with once-in-a-lifetime activities. Going abroad was easily the best decision I could make here at Sacred Heart and as a global ambassador I hope to encourage others to consider studying abroad as well!

Emma Klein | STEM Elementary Education

Hi! My name is Emma Klein and I am a junior from Middletown, CT. I am a STEM elementary education major with minors in honors and psychology. On campus, I am involved in the Dance Ensemble, Education Club, Alpha Phi Omega, and programs through the Office of Community Engagement. I studied abroad this past spring semester in Dingle, Ireland with this experience being my first time venturing outside of the United States! As a result of the program, I was also able to travel to multiple other countries throughout Europe, sparking my love for travel. While in Dingle, I loved being able to immerse myself in the culture, try new activities, and meet countless welcoming individuals. Studying abroad was an opportunity that allowed me to push myself out of my comfort zone and grow in countless ways!

Molly McDonald | English

Olivia McManus | Interdisciplinary Studies

Hi! My name is Olivia McManus, and I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland, during my sophomore year spring semester in 2024. I am currently a senior elementary education major, and I’m from Hamden, Connecticut. On campus, I am involved in Alpha Delta Pi Sorority and work at the Martire Family Arena. I love to hang out with friends, try new places for dinner, and go shopping. During my study abroad experience, I discovered a new love for traveling, seeing new places, and experiencing new cultures. A few of my favorite memories from studying abroad in Dingle include meeting my roommates and the locals, surfing in Dingle, traveling to so many new countries, and celebrating Saint Patrick's Day in Ireland with all of my friends!

Sadie Pires | Media Arts

Hi! My name is Sadie Pires, and I am entering my senior year at SHU, majoring in Media Arts with a concentration in Film and TV. I had the amazing opportunity of studying abroad in Dingle, Ireland, spring semester of 2025! This program allowed me to experience a new culture and grow, not only as a student but as a person. I learned so much about the Irish culture, met the most amazing locals, worked directly with the community as a part of my classes and internship, and truly learned a new way of life while creating memories I will never forget! Studying in Dingle has been one of the best experiences of my life! Outside of study abroad, I am a part of SHU's Theatre Arts Program and Kappa Delta Sorority. Some of my interests include traveling, reading, baking, and spending time with family and friends. I am so excited to get to share more of my experience in Dingle with others and spread awareness about this amazing program and how this decision can truly change your college experience!

Amanda Pizzi | Strategic Communications, Public Relation & Advertising

Hi! My name is Amanda Pizzi and I am from Randolph, New Jersey. I am a senior majoring in Strategic Communications, Public Relations, and Advertising, with a minor in Digital Marketing. I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland during the 2024 Spring Semester, and it was the greatest experience of my life! Not only was I able to grow my confidence and independence during my time abroad, but I was also able to engage in many opportunities that will support me for my future academics and career. I was able to complete an internship with the Dingle Sea Safari, and it has taught me so much that will stay with me forever. Before studying abroad, I had never left the country, so during the semester I was able to travel so many places that I thought I would never be able to. I am so grateful that I was able to experience different cultures, meet new people, and create friendships and memories that will last a lifetime! Studying abroad has completely changed my perspective and outlook on everyday life, and now I try to fully embrace every new experience that comes my way.

Ariana Porco | Marine Biology

Hi! My name is Ariana Porco and I'm a Senior Marine Biology major with a minor in Creative Writing here at Sacred Heart University. I'm from Dutchess County, New York and, on campus, I am involved in Biology Club and the Upward Bound Program! I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland for the full Spring 2025 Semester and it truly was one of the greatest experiences of my life. Not only was I given the opportunity to explore new cities and countries all around Europe, but I created so many new friendships while doing it that I, to this day, believe are the greatest ones yet! You not only build a life for yourself in which you'll grow independently from, but you'll learn to appreciate and find involvement in the cultures and people that are around you as well. If you are considering studying abroad, I promise that, by the end of it, you won't want it to end because it really is that special!

Jackson Rodgers | Political Science

I’m Jackson, I’m a political science major on the prelaw track with a business minor. I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Dingle, Ireland the spring semester of my sophomore year. I had so much fun immersing myself in the rich culture and amazing landscapes of the Irish coast. While there I discovered a deep love for exploring new places and connecting with people from many different backgrounds. My time in Dingle was very transformative and allowed me to grow personally and academically while also developing a strong sense of independence in foreign areas. I’m very passionate about helping others embark on their own study abroad journeys and I’m dedicated to providing guidance to everyone and support to ensure they make the most of their experiences.

Kayla Tracy | Biology 

Hi everyone! My name is Kayla Tracy, and I am a senior who studied abroad in Dingle in Spring 2024. I am a biology major with minors in honors, chemistry, and psychology, and I am a student ambassador, peer tutor, and secretary of the biology club. While abroad in Dingle, I did an internship at the Dingle Aquarium, and it was an amazing experience! Being able to learn in a different country is an experience like no other, and a lot of our classes included field trips to places around County Kerry. In addition to gaining international education, traveling was a big part of my study abroad experience, but there is no place like Dingle. Dingle is truly my favorite place in the world, and I loved being able to call Dingle home.

SHU Dingle - Spring, Nursing

Katelyn Diaz | Nursing

Hi! My name is Katelyn Diaz, and I am a senior double majoring in Nursing and Business Management at Sacred Heart University with minors in Nutrition and Honors. I am originally from Long Island, New York, and during the spring semester of my sophomore year, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Dingle, Ireland. While abroad, I explored six different countries, completed clinical rotations, and fully immersed myself in new cultures. The experience not only deepened my passion for healthcare but also helped me grow personally, building confidence and creating lifelong friendships. While Barcelona and Paris were unforgettable, Dingle will always hold a special place in my heart. Outside of academics, I love spending time at the beach, going to karaoke with friends, and trying out new hobbies. I’m excited to share my experiences and inspire others to take the leap and study abroad!

Samantha Egger | Nursing

Hi everyone! My name is Samantha and I am a nursing major. I recently got back from spending the spring semester in Dingle and had the best time of my life! More about me is that I am from Northern New Jersey and I love to golf and spend time with my family! I was on the fence about studying abroad but I truly met my best friends while I was there and came home feeling very fulfilled. I was really nervous about balancing school work and travel however thanks to the community and resources in Dingle I was able to work hard during the week and explore and relax on the weekends! This is a once in a life experience that truly changed my life.

Sarah Long | Nursing

Katherine Stewart | Nursing

Hi! My name is Katherine Stewart, and I am a junior nursing major. I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland in the Spring of 2025 which was my sophomore year and I can say without a doubt it was the best decision I have ever made. I was able to prioritize my classes which is vital especially with nursing, while being able to enjoy the town of Dingle and many other countries during my free time. On campus, I am involved in Alpha Delta Pi sorority, Dance Ensemble, and Student Nurses Association. This is my first semester back on campus, and I am so excited to get back to seeing all my friends on campus, Jennings Beach, downtown Fairfield, and SHU hockey games! I am so excited to share my experiences with you all and help you find the best study abroad program for you.

SHU Dingle - Summer

Jaylen Barbosa | STEM Elementary Education 

Hi! My name is Jaylen Barbosa, and I’m a senior STEM Elementary Education major with a minor in Psychology and Honors. On campus, I’m involved in Club Volleyball, the Education Club, and I also am a tutor on campus. I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Dingle, Ireland during the Summer 2024 two-week session. Traveling is something I truly enjoy, and the SHU study abroad program gave me the chance to not only take a course connected to my major, but also to experience the local culture in a meaningful way. I loved learning about Irish traditions and connecting with the community. Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I’m so grateful I was able to combine my love of travel with my academic journey.

Bella Conti | Health Science

Hi! My name is Bella, and I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland, for two weeks during the summer before my junior year. I also participated in a global service-learning trip to Colombia during my sophomore spring break, where I immersed myself in the local culture while giving back to the community. I’m from Cranston, Rhode Island, and I’m currently a senior majoring in Health Science with a concentration in Dietetics & Nutrition on the pre-PA track, along with minors in Biology and Chemistry. Besides being a global ambassador, I am also a captain of the peer ministry team and club tennis team, fundraising chair for Best Buddies, and secretary for SHU Girl Gains, to name a few. Traveling has opened my eyes to new perspectives, and I’m passionate about experiencing different cultures while connecting with all types of people. Outside of academics, I love working out, going to the beach, spending time with friends and family, playing tennis, and traveling.

Kailey Smith | Sport Management

The program was incredibly hands-on – we weren't just reading about sports marketing theory, we were analyzing how GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) games drive local economies and studying tourism marketing strategies firsthand. Having such a small class meant professors actually knew our names and pushed us individually. Plus, the cultural immersion was next level – locals would casually drop marketing insights about their businesses in pubs that you'd never get in a traditional classroom.

Deven Taggart | Health Science & Public Health

Hello! My name is Deven Taggart, and I am a Junior studying Health Science: Public Health Concentration with minors in Chemistry and Honors. I have studied abroad in Dingle for short-term 2-week programs in the Summer of 2024 and the Summer of 2025, and this is my second year as a global ambassador. Studying abroad was a transformative experience that allowed me to learn more about myself and my own personal capabilities. Dingle will forever have my heart, and I cannot wait to introduce more people to the love that it has shown me!

Grace Warner | Exercise Science

Hi! My name is Grace Warner and I'm from Drums, Pennsylvania. I'm a Senior Exercise Science major on the pre-med track with minors in Biology, Chemistry, Honors, and Theology & Religious Studies. During the summer of 2024, I studied abroad in the 2 week program in Dingle, Ireland taking a course for one of my minors. I had an amazing experience learning in a new environment, while understanding the Irish culture. The 2 week program was the perfect amount of time to take part in all the fun activities and fall in love with Dingle. I made so many unforgettable memories that I would love to visit again soon!

John Cabot University Rome - Spring

Sofia Biondi | Fashion Marketing & Merchandising and Business Economics

Hi! My name is Sofia Biondi, and I am so happy to be a Global Ambassador! I am a junior from Staten Island, New York, majoring in Fashion Marketing & Merchandising and Business Economics. After studying abroad in Dingle, Ireland during the Summer 2024 session, I quickly realized how rewarding traveling, and specifically studying abroad, truly is. Because of that life-changing experience, I decided to study abroad for a second time during the Spring 2025 semester at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy. I am a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority and the Thomas More Honors Program. I have a passion for fashion and deep fascination with cultural education. I love learning about different cultures and their unique forms of expression through outlets such as fashion as well as traditions or other outlets of expression. Studying abroad granted me the opportunity to not only learn about or experience different cultures, but truly be immersed in them. Studying abroad was the most transformative and rewarding experience of my life, and I am so excited to help guide fellow study abroad students through their own journeys!

Carolena Canale | Business Management and Economics

Hi! My name is Carolena Canale, and I am from Oswego, New York. I am a junior this year, double-majoring in Business Management and Economics. This past spring semester, I had the chance to study abroad in Rome, Italy. This was one of my first opportunities to travel abroad, and I knew no one else doing the program before leaving, but I am so thankful, and I was able to create lasting friendships. Taking classes and living abroad for four months really allowed me to create a routine and immerse myself in the culture, yet gave me enough time to travel to new places as well. I made memories and shared experiences with people whom I will never forget. I am eager to return abroad, but especially to my home base this past semester, Rome, Italy.

Natalie Coffey | Psychology

Hi everyone! My name is Natalie Coffey. I’m a junior from Staten Island, New York majoring in psychology and minoring in criminal justice. On campus, I am a member of Chi Omega, Psychology club and Best Buddies club. After graduation next year, I’m planning to go to graduate school to get my masters in social work. I love all things true crime related which is why I chose to minor in criminal justice, but in the long run I would like to work with kids as a social worker potentially in a court or hospital setting. I studied abroad in Rome, Italy at John Cabot University during the spring 2024 semester. My experience abroad has pushed me out of my comfort zone, given me confidence in myself, and brought me some of my best friends. I’m so excited to see what being a global ambassador has in store for me!

Danielle Grillo | Film and Television

Hi, my name is Danielle Grillo, and I’m from Westchester, New York. I am a senior at Sacred Heart majoring in Film and Television with a minor in Journalism and Honors. In the Spring of 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy. While there, I traveled throughout Italy and visited five other countries, which sparked an even greater passion of mine for exploring new places and experiencing international cultures. Living in Rome for a semester allowed me to fully immerse myself in the local lifestyle, meet people from around the world, witness historical events, and study courses that strengthened my skills in media arts. The experience pushed me to grow personally and professionally, teaching me how to adapt in unfamiliar situations and giving me a new sense of confidence and independence that I will carry with me for years to come. Studying abroad in Rome was one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made, and I’m excited to encourage others to take that leap and share any advice I can as a Global Ambassador this year!

Juliana McKeown | Psychology

Hi! My name is Juliana and I studied abroad in Rome, Italy for a semester my sophomore year! I am a Psychology major with minors in Sociology, Human Rights and Social Justice, and Honors! At SHU, I am also a part of Student Government, Chi Omega, Order of Omega, and Psychology club. Outside of school, I love the beach, music, concerts, iced coffee, and spending time with my friends and family.

Anna Wildes | Fashion Marketing & Merchandising

My name is Anna Wildes and I am from Narragansett, Rhode Island. I'm a senior studying Fashion Marketing and Merchandising and minoring in PR and Advertising. On campus, I am a part of Greek life and I am the President of the Class of 2026 for student government. I spent my spring semester of my sophomore year studying at John Cabot University Rome, Italy, and it was the best decision I have ever made. Throughout my time abroad I was able to travel to all different European cities to learn about their culture and their unique way of life. I love anything to do with fashion especially studying other cultures perspective on the fashion industry. I have also gained a love for being adventurous and pushing myself to try new things that are way out of my comfort zone.

John Cabot University Rome - Summer

Kathryn Haig | English Secondary Education

Hi! My name is Katie Haig, and I’m a sophomore and English major at Sacred Heart. Alongside being a member of the English and Psychology Clubs, I’m in the honors program and am the recipient of the “Best Writing” award at Sacred Heart’s 2024 Academic Festival. Passionate about learning, I hope to be a high school English teacher after I graduate. I love to read, write, exercise, and spend time with my friends, my family, and, of course, my dogs! During the summer, I studied at John Cabot University in Rome for six weeks, and it was the greatest experience of my life. Studying abroad introduced me to friends I never otherwise would have met and opened my mind to new academic opportunities and interests. Exploring the intricacies of a new place was a dream come true, and I am looking forward to guiding others toward an equally fulfilling experience.

Colin Johnson | Finance and Financial Technology & Analytics

Hi! I’m Colin, and I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Rome, Italy, through a five-week program. While there, I made friends from all over the world, dove headfirst into Italian culture, and experienced life in a completely new way. Coming from Massachusetts, it was a big step out of my comfort zone, especially since I was on my own so far from home, but it was absolutely worth it! I love learning, spending time with friends and family, watching movies, trying new things, and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way. Studying abroad was one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences of my college journey, and I can’t wait to help other students explore the amazing world of studying abroad!

Cassandra Kosakowski | Accounting

Hi! My name is Cassandra Kosakowski and I am a Sophomore here at Sacred Heart University. I live in San Juan, Puerto Rico, but I am originally from Rhode Island. I am an accounting and finance major. I spent the summer of my freshman year studying abroad at John Cabot University in Rome and the spring of my sophomore year at the Dingle Global Campus. I was able to travel to some amazing places and meet lifelong friends. On campus, I am a part of the Theatre Arts Program, Accounting Club and Alpha Phi Omega! I consider studying abroad to be one of the best decisions I have ever made in college! I encourage everyone to try and be a part of this amazing opportunity!

Katerina Kyrou | Nursing

HI! My name is Katerina Kyrou, I studied abroad in Dingle, Ireland and Rome, Italy. I am a senior in the Nursing program and I am involved in a lot on campus. I am the Co President of La Hispanidad, the Spanish society on campus, and I have my work study at the Agape Center. The center aims to celebrate inclusiveness and cultural identity. I love to travel, read, and run. My study abroad experience helped me put myself out there make connections, and find things out about myself.

Olivia McDonald | Finance

Hi everyone! My name is Olivia McDonald, and I am a Senior! I studied abroad the summer going into my Junior year in Rome, Italy and had the time of my life! I absolutely loved the 6-week summer program, especially as someone who always has a busy schedule during the school year. I am currently the President of Alpha Delta Pi and the Secretary of Order of Omega. I am also a member of the Dance Ensemble and the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. I am excited to share my experiences!!

Arabella Pastena | Health Administration

Hi! My name is Arabella Pastena. I am a Senior from North Jersey, and I am majoring in Health Science with a concentration in Health Administration and minors in Management and Business. On campus, I’m an active member of Kappa Delta Sorority and I love spending time with my friends and family. I had the opportunity to study abroad at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy, during the 2024 six-week summer session. This experience gave me the chance to dive deeper into the culture and lifestyle of Italy while also being able to make incredible friends and memories that will last a lifetime. I’ve always loved exploring my culture, and I was able to learn so much more about the art, history, and foods of Italy. As a returning Global Ambassador, I’m excited to connect with future study abroad students, offering advice and encouragement as they begin their own adventures. I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned and help others make the most of their time abroad!

Adrianna Puklin | Nursing

Hi! My name is Adrianna Puklin and I a senior nursing major. I studied abroad in Rome, Italy during the second summer session and Dingle Ireland during the summer. During my time abroad I would spend most of my weekends traveling to new countries, while balancing schoolwork. My favorite place I visited was the Amalfi Coast. When I was not traveling, I would have movie nights with my friends, go on shopping sprees, experiment with new cooking recipes, and occasionally have a beach day. During my time in Rome, I loved trying new restaurants and dishes, one of my favorite dishes was gnocchi ragù. During my time abroad I had an amazing opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and do something new and exciting.

Francesca Scalzo | Management and Marketing

Hi my name is Francesca Scalzo I am a senior double major in Management and Marketing with a double minor in Information Technology and Business Analytics. I am Vice President of Recruitment for my sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, along with being academically involved as a Welch Mentor and on the Marketing Corporate Structure team for the Welch College of Business and Technology. I studied abroad two times here one being in Dingle Ireland over the 2 week winter course and the second time going to Rome for Summer 1 for 6 weeks. I love being so involved and doing spontaneous trips and activities. Studying abroad has changed how I look at life, and I believe if given the opportunity to go, everyone should give it a try!

Emilia St. Pierre | Marketing

Hi! My name is Emilia St. Pierre, and I am from Wethersfield, CT. I am a marketing major with minors in digital marketing and honors. On campus, I am part of the Welch Corporate Structure Program and Habitat for Humanity. I studied abroad in Rome at John Cabot University for the second Summer 2024 session, and it was one of the most fun and beautiful experiences of my life. Studying abroad brought me outside my comfort zone, allowing me to meet new people and learn more about myself. My grandfather was born in Italy, so I was grateful to learn more about my family's culture and see where my grandfather grew up. The breathtaking architecture was the main highlight of my experience, especially the Sistine Chapel. I also loved trying new pasta dishes each night! I encourage students to study abroad if they can, because it was truly a life-changing experience!

Evalina Zanoni | Business Management

My name is Evalina Zanoni, I am from Long Island, New York, and I am currently a senior majoring in Business Management with minors in Accounting and Honors. In the summer of 2023, I spent about six weeks studying at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy, where I was able to meet tons of students from SHU as well as other universities, immerse myself in the culture, and strengthen my Italian-speaking skills. Some of my favorite things include spending time with my family and friends, traveling, and listening to music. Here on campus, I am a member of the Sacred Heart University Orchestra, where I play the violin! Studying abroad was always something I had on my bucket list going into college, and I am so happy I chose Rome. The memories I made abroad will last a lifetime, and I look forward to encouraging other students to study abroad as well.

CIEE Open Campus Block in Madrid - Spring

Katarina Bezmalinovic | Finance

Hi! My name is Katarina and I am a junior finance major here at Sacred Heart and am apart of Kappa Delta Sorority. I studied abroad the past spring through CIEE Open Campus Program in Madrid, Spain. Study abroad was the best decision I could have ever made. I recommend going abroad to everyone who is thinking about it!!

Justin Heinsohn | Accounting

I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain during the spring semester of 2025. I absolutely loved everything about Spain and Madrid including the food, people, architecture, public transport. I couldn't say enough things about what I loved about Spain. I lived with a host family while I was there and they were everything I was hoping for. A sweet caring old couple who were some of the nicest people I've ever met and it was a really good opportunity to learn Spanish to a new level.

CIEE Barcelona- Summer

Belinda Ein | Health Science

Hi! My name is Belinda and I'm a junior health science major from Bergen County, New Jersey. I studied abroad during summer 2025 in Barcelona, Spain and it was one of the most rewarding experiences. While I was there, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in Spanish culture, explore the city and the architecture, and connect with both local students and students from all over the U.S. in the same program. During my time in Barcelona, I travelled to France, Monaco, and I explored the coast of Spain, including the island of Mallorca. I was constantly stepping out of my comfort zone, and doing so helped me grow and experience things I never imagined. Studying abroad not only allowed me to see more of the world, but it also gave me a new perspective on life.

Webster University in Geneva - Spring

Salma Aliaga | Global Studies

Hello! My name is Salma Aliaga. I am majoring in Global Studies with a minor on Pre-law. I studied abroad in at Webster University Geneva, Switzerland. I love being in contact with nature, learning languages and cultures and I love art. Going to Switzerland was truly life-changing and it help me learn things about myself and the things I want for my career, being surrounded in such an international place, from meeting people from all over the world, connections and lifetime friendships. Due to Geneva's location it was so easy to catch a plane or train and go to France or Germany. I am always an email away in case of any questions and I will always encourage people to go abroad!!!