Graduate Student Ambassadors

Peter Winnard

Hometown: Gaithersburg, MD
Program: Master’s Summer Option
Current: English Teacher

What surprised you about your experience at the Middlebury Language Schools?

I have attended the school’s Italian summer program twice. Before going I was quite skeptical of how a “simulated” immersion experience would work, but Middlebury’s was the real deal, and I was impressed by how faithfully and consistently everyone stuck to the target language. The professors were also highly eminent, at least in their respective country, with some writing for TV and others having published over 30 books.

Why did you choose to study at the Middlebury Language Schools?

The first time (in 2017), I studied at Middlebury because it was the only summer program available that enabled me to graduate in Italian AND English at Dickinson College through transfer credits. But principally, and also now with my Master’s, I study at Middlebury because I want to improve my language skills drastically without any English distractions.

Please describe how your language skills improved due to your studies at Middlebury.

My conversational skills improved dramatically, as did my reading and writing skills. I was instilled with more confidence to use the language more frequently. Right now, my Italian has prepared me immensely for living in Milan—I currently teach Italian students English at IIS Cremona. I am an actor and in the future, I would like to act professionally in Italy.

What advice would you give someone wanting to attend the School of Italian?

The improvement you experience may not be apparent to you. In hindsight, I realize how much I improved, but during the program, you may “feel” like you are stagnating. This is normal. I can now say, not only from what my professors have told me but also from my own writing, that the Middlebury program took my skills to the next level. You just need to be patient and trust in the process.

Ann Marie Cadiz

Hometown: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Program: Master’s Summer Option
Current: International educational professional

Why did you choose to study at the Middlebury Language Schools?

I first got a taste of the Middlebury Language Schools when I attended the 7-week undergraduate program. There, I was surprised on how quickly I developed my language skills due to the Language Pledge within the 24/7 immersion program. Now as a graduate student, I am accustomed to the Language Pledge and use it to excel my language skills even further.

After graduating with a B.A., I wanted to improve my Italian language skills and following an amazing experience, I decided to pursue a M.A. in Italian at the Middlebury Italian School.

Please describe how your language skills improved due to your studies at Middlebury.

My language skills improved greatly thanks to the ongoing process of speaking and living the language on a daily basis. I felt extremely accomplished when everything started to make sense and my fluency became apparent.  

What advice would you give someone wanting to attend the School of Italian?

I would advise everyone to attend the Italian School because you will be challenged and thoroughly develop your language skills in ways that you never thought were possible.

Michael Frack

Hometown: Huntsville, AL
Program: Master’s Summer Option
Current: Uppsala University (MA in German), Uppsala, Sweden

What surprised you about your experience at the Middlebury Language Schools?

The thing that most surprised me about the Middlebury Language Schools, is just how enjoyable and personally fulfilling it is. Prior to studying at Middlebury, I had taken a long break from academia (nearly a decade) to work in various physically demanding and dangerous professions; and the thought of sitting behind a desk again, as an “academic,” after that lifestyle, really, honestly, truly filled me with dread.

But at Middlebury, I discovered a rekindled love for learning and linguistic discourse at a level I had not known before – and found the program to be not merely challenging, but fun. Crazy fun. Historical linguistics, art, theater, music, literature, with professors who love what they do. The fact that I get to earn a Masters degree studying subjects that set my heart on fire, is NOT what I ever expected in the world of “academics.”

But that’s what Middlebury is all about.

Middlebury changed my life, and opened doors that I never even knew existed.

Why did you choose to study at the Middlebury Language Schools?

Initially, I chose to study at the Middlebury Language Schools because a professor from a previous university recommended that I apply during the summer just before starting in Uppsala. I had been out of academics for a long time, having been a full-time professional sailor, and was personally doubtful of working on two separate Masters degrees in two separate languages; but my professor encouraged me to apply, and I was happy to be accepted.

Being at Middlebury was an unexpected step closer to my eventual goal of teaching languages internationally at a secondary or post-secondary level. I already had a BA in German with a minor in Italian Studies, and had (at one point) taught English at a high school in Italy, so the opportunity to study at Middlebury, though daunting at first, seemed too good to pass up. Now, however, after my second summer – I see this experience as life-changing, and essential to my own academic foundation.

Please describe how your language skills improved due to your studies at Middlebury.

Before studying at Middlebury, my Italian language skills were almost entirely practical, social, and based on spoken proficiency. Where Middlebury truly challenged and equipped me, was in academic writing in a foreign language – a language which I have spoken for more than half my life, but have only recently begun to use at a Masters level. The rigorous technical courses of the first summer prepared me perfectly for a re-entry into the world of academics, and I was able to transfer the same academic skills and approaches I learned at Middlebury, to my other Masters program in Uppsala. Middlebury has made me confident using Italian in a rigorous professional environment, as well as even more comfortable conversing in a social context – I barely even register that I am speaking in a “foreign” language anymore, and can instead focus on the subjects themselves rather than my faults in the language.

Describe your typical day at the Italian School.

My typical day at the Italian school depends on the course schedule each summer, but usually begins at sunrise running  through the endless forest roads around campus, followed by breakfast and coffee with the other Italian students as we prepare for the day. Then, depending on when my first class starts, I usually refresh what I had studied the night before, ready for in-class discussion. I am apparently considered a “talker,” and I love interacting with people, so this is the perfect opportunity to explore new topics and discussions in both an academic and social context, both in and out of class. Class schedule usually centers around lunchtime, which is when students and professors from all levels really get to meet each other in one big dining hall, and this interaction is honestly my favorite part of any day at Middlebury – just getting to discover new aspects of people’s personalities in another language, through living, studying, eating, and growing together.

After class is done for the day, I usually take some time alone to study, read, or work on assignments — there is ALWAYS time to complete assignments early, and I find the afternoon is a perfect chance to get ahead. Then, I usually take my main training block in the afternoon. The Bennington campus area has an excellent gym, as well as access to a public pool and plenty of running trails – which is essential for athletes studying over the summer, and a perfect place to maintain competitive fitness.

The day usually ends with dinner followed by special events in the evening, such as conferences, films, performances, and other social or academic activities. Then, I use whatever time is left in the evening to work on essays and research projects, which I find quite relaxing as the day winds down.

For me, each morning in Middlebury begins full of promise, and each evening ends full of contentment and a sense of accomplishment.

What advice would you give someone wanting to attend the Italian School?

The first advice, is this:

“It’s easier to keep up than to catch up,” and “There’s always time to do what you ought.”

A summer at Middlebury requires consistent, sustained effort. That means, firstly, that there is no reason why you should create more stress or work for yourself than necessary – especially at a Masters level. Finish your work at the first opportunity – it’s less work that way.

You have plenty of time to complete assignments early – and that not only eliminates stress and achieves the course goal: it also frees up more opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities, which makes the experience far more enjoyable, and therefore, far easier. Remember — everyone at Middlebury WANTS you to succeed.

The second advice, is this: Never, ever, be afraid to fail.

The fear of failure, will always, 100% of the time, hold you back from completing and enjoying your work. It is the same for first-year students and Masters students – those who do well, mistake boldly. This is essential, particularly in languages, where you MUST make mistakes in order to learn.

The more boldly you are willing to make mistakes in pursuit of growth, the more surely you will succeed and grow.

What are you up to now?

Currently, I am in my second year as a Masters student in German at the Department of Modern Languages at Uppsala University in Sweden, where I am also taking courses in Irish Language and various historical linguistics and literary studies, with the eventual goal of working in international language education.

I love getting people to talk in new languages, and hope to make a career out of it by teaching again someday.

Nicole (Jacky) AuCoin Lee

Hometown: Bozeman, MT
Program: 7-week Immersion, 6-week Immersion
Level: 3 (2024), Master’s (2025)
Current: Middlebury Italian Master’s Program in Florence

What surprised you about your experience at the Middlebury Language Schools?

I was surprised by how kind everyone was. People were incredibly friendly, open, and always available to chat.

Why did you choose to study at the Middlebury Language Schools?

I studied abroad in Rome the semester before my first summer at Middlebury, and I fell in love with the Italian language. I wanted to continue my studies because Italian is also useful for Art History, my undergraduate major. My stepdad had attended the French School at Middlebury years ago and always raved about the experience. My sister also studied at the French School the summer before I started my program. I chose Middlebury because it seemed like the best way to learn a language—not only through total immersion, but also through structured classes that guide input and provide support.

Please describe how your language skills improved due to your studies at Middlebury.

Exponentially. The first summer gave me a really strong grammar foundation, which I didn’t have at all before, and it improved my fluency. During my second summer in the Master’s program, I was able to specialize my vocabulary and learn about specific topics that interested me. It’s amazing to now know words in Italian that I don’t even know in English.

Describe your typical day at the Italian School.

The first summer, I went to many of the evening events, which I did much less of the second summer—having class at 8:30 a.m. instead of 9:00 a.m. made a real difference. During my first summer, and what I would recommend to feel part of the community, I would wake up, get ready, rush to breakfast to chat and grab plenty of coffee, go to class, talk with my friends during breaks, go to lunch and chat some more, attend afternoon classes, go to the gym, then head to dinner. In the evenings, I usually joined whatever event was happening, and afterward my friends and I would meet in one of the piazzas to share a drink before heading to bed—ready to do it all again the next day.

What advice would you give someone wanting to attend the Italian School?

It is absolutely worth it. Not only will you learn Italian, but you’ll also learn a lot about yourself. Both summers, I caught myself thinking: Wow, is this really how I respond to such a stressful and intense environment? I need to work on this. It’s very rewarding because people are always willing to talk and create a real sense of community. My advice is to be patient with yourself. Some things won’t come easily, and some days or even weeks will feel especially difficult. There’s a lot of pressure to participate in everything—which is wonderful, fun, and helpful—but if you need a break, take one. Be kind to yourself and check in often about what you need in the moment.

What are you up to now?

I fell in love with both Italian and Middlebury, so I am now pursuing the Middlebury Master’s Program in Florence. Eventually, I hope to complete a PhD in Art History.

Amalia Perea Mahoney

Hometown: Miami Beach, FL
Program: 7-week Immersion, Graduate
Level: 2 (2024), Master’s (2025)

What surprised you about your experience at the Middlebury Language Schools?

What surprised me most about the Middlebury language experience is the reassuring & supportive environment. The students’ bond with one another naturally. We attend classes together, form study groups, dine together and jointly engage in the many extra-curricular activities. The Director, the teachers and the staff are always available. They are native speakers and the commitment to the language pledge is ever present. 

Why did you choose to study at the Middlebury Language Schools?

I researched a wide variety of Italian language programs prior to choosing Middlebury.  At first, I considered studying in Italy, but my primary consideration was being in an environment that offered a complete immersion. I was aware of Middlebury’s extraordinary reputation as the leading American based program in language studies. I also knew two people who had attended the language program. Both were of different ages so they each offered different perspectives.  I spoke with both, and this helped my decision to attend Middlebury. I also liked the idea of being close to home. Vermont is beautiful and I thought it would be a wonderful place to spend the Summer.  

Why did you choose to return to the Italian School to study at the graduate level?

I tested into Level 2 my first Summer at Middlebury and at the end of the Summer I saw considerable improvement in my proficiency in Italian. I continued to study Italian after returning home and decided I wanted to reach the next level of proficiency.  I wanted to pursue the most ambitious program possible. In discussions with Director Donato Santeramo and faculty, they suggested I register for the Master’s Program. They thought it would be a good fit, and I enjoyed the challenge. 

Please describe how your language skills improved due to your studies at Middlebury?

My skills improved significantly in all areas of the language – grammar, conversation, writing, and reading. I became very comfortable watching movies, reading serious literature, listening to lectures, participating in class, and enjoying social gatherings with my classmates. It gave me a strong sense of confidence and speaking Italian became relaxing and fun.

Describe your typical day at the Italian School.

You are truly in an Italian bubble and with the language pledge in effect. You are only hearing and speaking Italian. Breakfast, lunch and dinner is with the entire school including the faculty. We have classes every day 5 days a week. The morning class consists of conversation, grammar and culture. The afternoon is reinforcement of your speaking skills, with a focus on pronunciation and intonation of the language. After class there are usually volleyball and soccer games, or many go to the gym. The evenings can consist of a movie, a musical event, a lecture, a cooking class, a limoncello making class, fun games like Italian Trivia, or you can join a study group.  And yes, there’s always homework!

What advice would you give someone wanting to attend the Italian School?

If you really want to learn the language, the Italian school is the best route to take, but you must honor the language pledge and be committed to the 7 weeks away from home.  You must be disciplined and focused and plan to have fun.

What are you up to now?

I continue to study Italian. I watch films, listen to Italian music, I read in Italian and converse every chance I get. Becoming fluent in a language is an ongoing process. I am lucky, I am spending part of the year in Italy.  

Giovanni Minicucci

Hometown: Pescara, Italy
Program: Master’s Summer Option
Current: Instructor of Italian, Middlebury College Languages School

• Lecturer, North Park University & College of DuPage
• PhD Student in Romance Languages & Literatures, The University of Chicago
• Instructor of Italian, Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago
• Instructor of Spanish, Instituto Cervantes of Chicago

What surprised you about your experience at the Middlebury Language Schools?

What surprised me most about Middlebury was the strong sense of community and family that quickly forms among students, faculty, and staff. From the very first day, you are immersed in an environment where everyone is committed to the same goal: growing together through language and culture. The people you meet aren’t just classmates; they are companions in an intense journey of study, creativity, and discovery. You live, learn, and share daily experiences with them—from meals and classes to cultural events and late-night conversations—and these bonds extend far beyond the classroom. This closeness creates a unique atmosphere of trust and support. For me, this community became one of the most memorable chapters of my life, both academically and personally.

Why did you choose to study at the Middlebury Language Schools?

I chose Middlebury because it is renowned as one of the best places in the world to study languages, with a reputation that combines academic rigor, cultural immersion, and personal growth. I was drawn to the chance to spend my summer completely immersed in Italian language and culture on a beautiful campus that fosters both concentration and creativity. What also convinced me was the caliber of the professors, whose dedication and expertise provide an inspiring model for students, and the diverse community of colleagues who bring their own backgrounds and perspectives to every interaction. Middlebury was not just a place to take courses; it was a place to live the language, to build lifelong friendships, and to experience a summer of transformation both academically and personally.

Please describe how your language skills improved due to your studies at Middlebury.

The experience in the Italian School at Middlebury was truly transformative. Not only did it deepen my knowledge of Italian language and culture, but it also shaped the trajectory of my career. The intensive immersion gave me the tools and confidence to engage with Italian at the highest academic level, and today I draw upon those skills daily as I teach Italian and Spanish in multiple institutions.

My connection to Middlebury did not end as a student. Each summer, I now return to the Scuola Italiana as an Instructor of Italian, where I teach across levels and serve as Master of Ceremonies for our evening cultural events—an experience that allows me to bring the same spirit of community and creativity that once inspired me as a student.

Beyond Middlebury, I currently serve as Lecturer at North Park University and the College of DuPage, while also teaching at the Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago (ItalCultura) and the Instituto Cervantes of Chicago. In addition, I am pursuing my PhD in Romance Languages & Literatures at the University of Chicago, where my research and teaching continue to be shaped by the foundation I received at Middlebury.

Ultimately, the Italian School did more than improve my language skills—it gave me a professional and intellectual identity. The literary traditions, historical perspectives, and cultural insights I first encountered at Middlebury continue to enrich my teaching, research, and the communities I build with my students.

Jacquelyn Schwartz

Hometown: Bondville, New York
Program: Master’s Summer Option with a year in Florence  
Current: Student Success Coach, City Year

What surprised you about your experience at the Middlebury Language Schools?

What surprised me most about Italian school was how much we were able to fit into a short time. I had moments throughout each summer in which it seemed impossible, but with the support of the faculty and the close-knit, passionate community that quickly forms, students surpass what they initially thought they were capable of. Not only did my Italian improve dramatically, but I never could have anticipated how much I would grow as a person and how many useful skills I would gain that go far beyond being able to speak another language.

Why did you choose to study at the Middlebury Language Schools?

After studying abroad in Florence during my senior year at Syracuse University, I realized the importance of cultural exchange and that language is a key component. I was driven to learn Italian and immediately began to fall in love with the learning process. Weeks away from my graduation, I wondered how I could continue my studies. Luckily my Italian professor had attended the Middlebury Italian School and recommended it wholeheartedly.

Please describe how your language skills improved due to your studies at Middlebury.

I went to Italy after two summers in the seven-week program and was amazed by how much I was able to communicate. When I told people that I had primarily learned over the course of two summers, they were intrigued. I then returned after my initial summer in the graduate program and was able to identify how much I had continued to improve. My experience abroad became more profound and authentic, and I was able to actively participate within the community without communicative barriers. I was able to hold insightful conversations about cultural perspectives and global issues. I was also able to experience a different education system as I completed courses at the University of Florence. Going forward, I plan to continue my studies as an aspiring international education professional, and hope to pursue a career working with study abroad students in Italy.

What advice would you give someone wanting to attend the School of Italian?

When I first began, the language pledge was overwhelming. I wondered how I could possibly express myself, or how I could survive a course without always knowing what the professor was explaining. Now, more confident both in my Italian and in myself, I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. I truly believe that without the language pledge, I would not have the skills that I have now. The language pledge offers an invaluable sense of vulnerability that opens your senses to completely absorb the learning process and the support of the faculty and students, make the experience unique and unforgettable. It’s absolutely worth it! Don’t be afraid of the challenge. The sense of pride and empowerment that you’ll feel at the end will be incomparable to any other type of academic satisfaction.

Elena Valeriote

Hometown: Vacaville, California
Program: Master’s Year Abroad
Current: Middlebury MA in Italian in Florence, Italy

What surprised you about your experience at the Middlebury Language Schools?

By enrolling as a student at the Middlebury Language Schools I had expected to improve my Italian language skills, but I hadn’t expected for the program to change my understanding of my native (English) language. Living by the Language Pledge, I developed a greater appreciation for the nuances of both Italian and English.

Why did you choose to study at the Middlebury Language Schools?

Prior to enrolling at Middlebury University, I had gained a basic understanding of Italian during my undergraduate education and during the time spent living and working in Italy on and off over the following years, but I was ready to commit to a more serious study of the language in order to pursue both my personal passion and my professional goals. Given the nature of the Language Pledge, I felt that the Middlebury Language Schools would offer the most rewarding, full-immersion experience.

Please describe how your language skills improved due to your studies at Middlebury.

After only six-weeks of the summer school program I noticed a significant improvement in my reading, writing, speaking and comprehension skills. As I am now living in Italy and continuing to study as a Middlebury student, my Italian language skills are an essential part of my daily life, allowing me to make personal and professional connections that would have otherwise been impossible.

What advice would you give someone wanting to attend the School of Italian?

Don’t miss out on this opportunity!