The final two weeks of the spring semester at the Steger Center for International Scholarship were both busy and fulfilling, as faculty and staff crafted meaningful experiences for students before their return home. Through community engagement, the completion of academic projects, and shared moments at Villa Maderni — the magnificent 18th century mansion that houses the center — the end of the term became a memorable culmination of their time abroad.

Cecilia Bonazzi and Ariana Marquez Fernandez, from the center’s Casa Maderni Living-Learning Community, led activities that celebrated the beauty of Riva San Vitale and reflected the center’s mission of experiential learning and community integration.

For example, students connected with residents during a cleanup hike on Monte Generoso, practicing their Italian while walking alongside Executive Director Sara Steinert Borella.

At the center, learning extends beyond the classroom. A communitywide academic showcase in Riva San Vitale featured presentations from Presidential Global Scholars, computer science, and architecture students on their semester projects. PGS students linked their studies to international themes, while computer science students showcased projects developed under the guidance of Professor Mohammed Sayem in partnership with Ticino’s University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI). The event concluded with the entire community gathering by the lake to experience the architecture students’ immersive design projects

Students and staff also enjoyed a spirited field day at the villa, followed by a cog train ride up Monte Generoso to take in sweeping views of the region.

When students first depart the United States, a semester abroad can feel like a long journey. But as their time in Riva San Vitale came to a close, that semester suddenly seems to have gone by in a heartbeat. In their final hours in Switzerland, students shared quiet moments with the community, practiced Italian one last time, and soaked in the Alpine views. A farewell dinner featured a family-style BBQ prepared by the center’s talented chefs, filled with laughter and gratitude for a semester well spent. 

For more information about opportunities at the Steger Center, visit stegercenter.vt.edu.

Written by Ariana Marquez Fernandez, a graduate teaching fellow at the Steger Center.

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