Faculty Spotlight: Giovanni Minicucci, Italian School

What do you hope your students take away from your classes at the Language Schools?

Teaching language is one of the most fascinating professions there is. Transmitting language and culture to interested students is the most rewarding thing for an instructor. My lessons are in continuous interaction with them, the beating heart of the Middlebury days. I hope that my students leave my classes not only with a deeper understanding of the Italian language itself, but also with a newfound confidence in their ability to communicate effectively. In addition to grammar and vocabulary, I aim to convey in them a passion for learning the language and an appreciation for cultural nuances. My goal is for them to leave with the skills and motivation to continue their language journey even after their classes are over, perhaps in Italy or simply because of their own personal desire.

What have you learned from your time teaching at the Language Schools?

There are so many things you learn from teaching at the Middlebury Language Schools. First and foremost, the students, as they are of different ages, allow you to learn about their abilities in learning the language. Being their mentor and language learning support makes you part of such a magical and special process that I’ve only seen happen here at Middlebury College. The thing I find most important and effective is the relationship you create with them, from morning to night, where they are not just mere students, but they all become part of the Italian School family, also teaching us instructors so much that we can always improve according to their needs and requirements.

What is unique about language schools students/teaching at the language schools?

Teaching at the Language Schools is an enriching and unique experience on multiple levels. One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the importance of adaptability in teaching. Every student brings unique strengths and challenges to the classroom, and being able to adjust my teaching methods to suit their needs has been crucial. Additionally, I’ve learned the value of fostering a sense of community within the classroom. Building strong relationships with my students and colleagues has not only enhanced the learning environment but has also provided me with valuable insights and perspectives that have enriched my teaching practice. 

What was surprising to you about teaching at the Language Schools?

One of the most amazing aspects of teaching at the Language Schools has been the level of dedication and enthusiasm that students have brought to their language learning journey from the very first day they arrived on campus. Seeing their genuine passion for mastering a new language was incredibly inspiring and motivating. In addition, I was pleasantly surprised by the strong sense of community between students and faculty. Also being Master of Ceremonies for some cultural events, I could see how the collaborative atmosphere fostered a supportive learning environment where everyone felt encouraged to take risks and grow.

Not only that, I want to remark that the constant support of the Director, colleagues and staff, who are always ready to help and make sure that the experience at the Italian School is always flawless in every little thing. 

Overall, the depth of involvement and sense of belonging within the community of the Language School and the Italian School in particular were truly remarkable and exceeded my expectations both as a former student and as a current language and cultural educator. Come and enjoy us for the Summer 2026 session! 

Apply here! 

Giovanni Minicucci is a Lecturer in Spanish and Italian at North Park University & College of DuPage. He earned his Master of Arts in Spanish Language, Literature, and Culture (2023) from Syracuse University, NY, where he also taught both Spanish and Italian, and obtained the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Latin American and Caribbean Studies (“PLACA”) from Syracuse’s Maxwell School of Citizenship. In addition, Giovanni earned a Master of Arts in Italian Studies (2022) from Middlebury College, VT, with a specialization in Medieval and Early Modern Mediterranean Studies. Since 2023, he has also been a Language Faculty member at Middlebury College’s Language Schools, where he also contributes to organizing and hosting cultural events.

Alongside his work at North Park, Giovanni teaches Italian at the Italian Institute of Culture (Italian Consulate of Chicago) and Spanish at the Instituto Cervantes of Chicago.

He is currently completing his Ph.D. in Romance Languages and Literatures at The University of Chicago. His research focuses on travel narratives, particularly in colonial Pacific literature, explorers’ diaries, and linguistic and cultural mediation between the West and colonized societies. He has a specific interest in the colonial Philippines and how Western travelers, especially Italians, interacted with local populations. His work examines how these travel accounts shaped cultural perceptions and the role of translation in cross-cultural understanding. Additionally, he explores the translation and circulation of colonial and postcolonial texts, investigating how they change as they move across languages and contexts, highlighting the complexities of cultural exchange.

He is the Founder and Co-Director of WorldLangAmerica, formerly ITALengAMERICA, a non-profit program that has grown significantly, now engaging more than 600 students per season. Initially focused on Italian, the program has expanded to include other languages (French, German, English), reflecting its broader mission.