Last Friday, October 25, 2024, John Cabot University had the pleasure of hosting a memorable event that celebrated the spirit of collaboration and international friendship, as we welcomed high school students from IIS Leonardo Da Vinci High School of Sapri to our campus in Rome.

This group of dedicated students had made our JCU Gladiators varsity teams feel at home in Sapri during our retreat at the end of September, guiding us through the beautiful city and introducing us to the local culture. Their involvement was part of a school project aimed at earning their PCTO (Pathways for Transversal Skills and Orientation) certification, overseen by Gina Marie Spinelli, JCU’s Executive Assistant to the Vice President for External Affairs and Special Projects.

The event served as a unique opportunity not only to extend our gratitude but also to mark the official culmination of the students’ project. In attendance were Stefano Arnone, JCU’s Dean of Academics; some of the high school’s teachers, among which Gerardo Ferrara, the visionary teacher who initiated the project; and Gina Marie Spinelli herself. Each of them commended the students for their hard work, adaptability, and enthusiasm.

As part of the event, the JCU Department of Admissions and a Student Ambassador led the high school students on a guided tour of our campus. They visited key facilities, explored the vibrant student spaces, and gained an inside look at our academic offerings. The students also learned about JCU’s degree programs, student life, and the diverse opportunities available to those joining the JCU community, providing them with an exciting glimpse into the world of international education.

The high school students from Sapri brought professionalism and creativity to their project, which involved every aspect of welcoming the JCU Gladiators to their city. From designing brochures and creating city maps to arranging tour guides and practice chaperones, these students demonstrated impressive skills in English, organizational planning, and cross-cultural communication. They stepped out of their comfort zones to facilitate an international event, gaining invaluable experience in language fluency and interpersonal skills in the process.

During the event, the students delivered an engaging presentation detailing the development of their project. They spoke about the research and planning that went into every detail of the Gladiators’ visit to Sapri, as well as their experience interacting with JCU’s international community. Hearing about the behind-the-scenes work gave everyone a greater appreciation for the dedication these students poured into their roles. For many of these students, it was their first experience interacting with an international team, and they embraced the opportunity to grow, both personally and academically.

Stefano Arnone expressed his congratulations, praising the students for their commitment to a project that exemplifies the values of global cooperation and educational enrichment. He acknowledged the students’ initiative as a testament to the growth that occurs when individuals from different backgrounds work together toward a common goal. Gerardo Ferrara, who had guided the project from inception, shared his pride in his students and emphasized the personal growth he witnessed in each one of them. Gina Marie Spinelli underscored the importance of such projects, highlighting their role in fostering personal development beyond traditional academics.

JCU’s Athletics Coordinator, Marco Iorio, joined in the celebration, presenting each high school student with a certificate of participation as a token of appreciation. A group of JCU student-athletes who had attended the Sapri retreat were also present, sharing heartfelt words of thanks and recounting how the hospitality of the Sapri students had made their stay unforgettable.

This event represented the very best of cultural exchange, demonstrating the power of collaboration and the friendships that can form across borders. Both the students from Sapri and our own JCU community were enriched by the experience, with everyone walking away with new skills, memories, and an expanded perspective.

As we look forward to future collaborations, we are proud to have been part of this special event that celebrated dedication, growth, and the lasting bonds of friendship.

Thank you again to the students of IIS Leonardo Da Vinci High School of Sapri for reminding us that community and kindness have no boundaries.