Eleven Arkansas Tech University students made the leap from reading about some of the most famous artworks and structures of all time to seeing them in person during a summer 2024 study abroad experience in Italy.
Jessica Mongeon, ATU associate professor of art, led the study abroad group. Together, they saw Michelangelo’s “David,” the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum in Rome.
“It was powerful for the students to see the architecture and art of Italy that they learned about in art history in person,” said Mongeon. “It’s hard to imagine the scale and visual impact of the artwork until you can stand in front of it and see it with your own eyes.”
The ATU delegation to Italy also watched a glass blowing demonstration in Murano, visited the Uffizi Gallery and toured the museum at the Vatican. They experienced contemporary art at the Venice Biennale exhibition, which featured art installations from around the world.
“For example, the United States pavilion featured Jeffrey Gibson, a member of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and of Cherokee descent who lives in Oregon,” said Mongeon.
The ATU group also visited the canals and bridges of Venice.
Arkansas Tech was represented on the Italian study abroad trip by students Lane Anderson, Marybeth Boroughs, Audra Bridges, Aaron Campbell, Courtney Curry, Tyler Griggs, Nathaly Marin, Collin Parrie, Sydney Partee, Jada Saul and Maven Sherbert.
“Study abroad is important so that students can see how other people experience the world,” said Mongeon.
Fifty-three Arkansas Tech students participated in study away/study abroad in nine countries during 2023-24. Those experiences were supported by an ATU Foundation investment of $89,000 in study away/study abroad scholarship assistance through the ATU Miller Center for Global Engagement.
Visit www.atu.edu/studyabroad to learn more about study abroad and study away opportunities for ATU students.
