More Wine and Cheese, Please by Tyler Laughlin, Schreiner University Graphic Design student.

Wine is a cherished tradition  in Italy, especially here in Tuscany.  SRISA presented a wine and cheese tasting class that was part of the cultural series offered to the students. There was much to be learned about how to choose a wine and what the variations are in the different types of wine.Cheese is often eaten when enjoying wine. It was learned that more aged wines pair best with more aged cheese, while younger wines are best complimented by newer cheese.   Everyone thoroughly enjoyed their lessons on Italian wines.The Schreiner students will be taking a day trip to Chianti this Friday.  The lessons from this class will help them to appreciate this experience even more.  Check back to see how the trip went. Schreiner University at SRISA.

Tuna Sandwiches in Italy, by Ashley

It was a day of firsts for me when we landed in Milan. The first time I had been out of the country. The first time I had not slept for almost a full day and still felt completely energized. The first time I got to have roommates and an apartment (almost) all my own.

I also made my first purchase with euros. It was at a little cafe that became a regular spot for my suite mates and I which later became known simply as The Cafe. I ordered a tuna sandwich and got a bottle of water ( it was carbonated and… interesting to say the least). After I ate it though, aside from knowing that no other tuna sandwich would ever compare, I realized that this was just the beginning of my month of adventure in this beautiful (and delicious) city.

I wanted to experience every little bit of Florence that I possibly could. I wanted to walk until I had blisters and then walk some more, and so far I have been. I’ve been soaking in the culture (and the sun), and I’ve been having an amazing trip. My time here isn’t just going to be fun and interesting on its own, I have to go make it happen. Just by walking around on a daily basis you don’t know what little gems you will find. For example my roommate and I wandered the streets all day and found some of the coolest sweaters ever! Don’t be afraid to haggle with the vendors and always try that strange fruit you see in the market; it’s all part of the adventure.

So when you get here check out everything Florence has to offer. After landing don’t run to the nearest McDonald’s and order the same Big Mac that you have at home. Instead go to the little cafe down the street from your apartment and order the best tuna sandwich you’ll ever have.

ABOUT ITALIAN LANGUAGE STUDIES

Benvenuti alla dolce vita! Welcome to the sweet life! At SRISA students have the opportunity to learn the Italian language in and out of the classroom. Students learn the basic communications skills needed for day-to-day activities, along with basic writing and reading skills.

The intensive level offers students the opportunity to focus a greater amount of time on the acquisition of the Italian language. As students develop their language skills, new and more complex topics of conversation are introduced. Many conversation topics are taken from local newspapers, television and Italian magazines. Emphasis is given to the introduction of Italian culture including politics, history, art, traditions, social customs, literature, cinema, and daily life.

Our Cultural Program integrates many elements of the Italian language and culture, including The History of Food in Italy with Professor Martina Ghiandelli; and Cheese and Wine Tasting with Professor Matilde Zampi; and Cooking classes with Professor Tina Fallani. Buon appetito!