Benvenuti, Vanderbilt!
Vanderbilt University professor Sheri Shaneyfelt and her class of art history students arrived in Perugia Tuesday afternoon, officially launching the Umbra Institute’s summer semester.
After furnishing the group with necessities like apartments and phones, Umbra staff welcomed the 20-plus students with a five-course meal at Da Cesarino, a local favorite only steps away from the city’s trademark steps. When the last bite of tiramisù was devoured, students returned to their new apartments.
The next morning, Umbra professor Zach Nowak led the students on a practical tour of the city after they enjoyed their first typical Italian breakfast of cappuccino and cornetti (croissants) with a side of panoramic views. Information continued to flow with an orientation meeting at Umbra, followed by a tour of the Coop, an Italian grocery store.
Finally, after this whirlwind introduction, life is slowing down to match the relaxed Italian pace. Professor Shaneyfelt taught the first class of the semester today; students are wandering around Perugia, getting to know their new home.