Bethany's Study Abroad in Italy

Hi, I’m Bethany and I’m an art major at the University of Oregon! This past fall term I took UO’s introduction to painting course. I enjoyed the learning curve of working with oil paints and found the class to be super helpful. However, I know I still have a lot to learn. When my painting professor presented GEO’s Combined Painting and Drawing in Siena program, it felt like the opportunity was made just for me. Academically, the program fits perfectly into my degree. I also could not have thought of a better country for me to continue my studies, as Italian culture is deeply rooted in the arts. I adore the aesthetics of Italian Renaissance art and architecture and want to learn about its history firsthand. Outside of its significant art history, Italian society captivates me aesthetically and culturally, from its food to its stunning nature reserves. I have adored the country's beauty since I was a kid and always wanted it to be the first place I would visit outside of the States. In addition, the lifestyle in Italy is incredibly appealing to me. I have always admired how the culture slows down to appreciate the little things in life. Living in a relaxed and beautiful environment where I will be surrounded by motivated students sounds like the perfect space for me to not only improve my art but to learn to slow down, be still, and treasure all the smallest parts of life. Getting the opportunity to live in a new culture is incredibly exciting! It’s an experience that I hope will positively bring a new perspective to my creative process and overall worldview.

My program will be 6 weeks long from mid-July to late August. I will be staying in an apartment in Siena and taking 8 credits of drawing and painting classes in a local studio. This opportunity is once in a lifetime for me and I’m incredibly grateful for it, but the financial stress is pretty overwhelming. $11,300 is my program’s estimated cost of attendance, including course enrollment, housing, flights, and other living expenses. Any support is incredibly appreciated, no matter how big or small!

Thank you so much for helping make this opportunity a reality for me!