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Emilia Colosimo, a �鶹��Ƶ������ȫ University at Trumbull nursing student from Newton Falls, spent two and a half life-changing months in Florence, Italy, this summer, thanks to the university’s study abroad program.

A 2028 Bachelor of Science in Nursing candidate, Colosimo participated in the Health Institute as well as the Summer Institute at �鶹��Ƶ������ȫ Florence, immersing herself in global healthcare education, Italian language and culture, and travel throughout the country.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to study abroad — it was truly life changing,” she said. “It strengthened skills I likely wouldn’t have developed in a traditional classroom.”

Colosimo first learned about the opportunity through campus announcements, her academic advisor and conversations with students who previously studied abroad. She said she was immediately intrigued.

“I saw it as a chance to step outside my comfort zone and gain global experience that would align directly with my career goals,” she said.

Her summer in Florence included courses like Italian for Medical Professionals; International Healthcare Policy; and Plagues That Shaped the World.  Through these courses, she developed Italian medical vocabulary and studied differences in international health systems while touring public and private hospitals.

One of the most memorable moments, she said, was touring the labor and delivery unit at Careggi University Hospital.

“A nurse midwife walked us through the typical childbirth process, which included homeopathic practices like essential oils, massages, stretching exercises and even the use of a jacuzzi,” she said. “It was fascinating to see how much more natural and holistic the Italian approach is compared to that in the U.S.”

When not in class, Colosimo explored Florence with her classmates — grabbing cappuccinos at her favorite café, walking along the Arno River, or enjoying late-night gelato after dinner. On weekends, she visited 15 cities including Rome, Venice, Milan and Cinque Terre.

“Learning to adapt to a new culture, language and lifestyle with my fellow classmates created some of the strongest friendships I have,” she said. “It also reinforced my love for global health and holistic care.”

Although Colosimo was the only �鶹��Ƶ������ȫ Trumbull student in her summer program, she connected with one fellow student from Trumbull, Achante Pasek, who participated in the Health Institute. She also met several students from the Kent Campus, many of whom were fellow nursing majors.

Colosimo said she’s thankful for the support she received to make the trip possible. She earned the College of Nursing Study Abroad Scholarship, the Office of Global Education Scholarship and the Gilman Scholarship, along with support from local organizations including the Newton Falls Masonic Lodge #462 and Amvets Post 112.

The experience aligns perfectly with her long-term goals. After earning her degree, she hopes to become a travel nurse and eventually a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

“I want to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives across different communities,” she said. “I’ve always been interested in healthy living, and I hope to one day inspire my patients not just through medical treatment, but also by incorporating holistic elements into their care.”

Colosimo’s �鶹��Ƶ������ȫ journey began with a desire for a strong academic foundation close to home. A 2024 graduate of Newton Falls High School, she said choosing a regional campus like Trumbull gave her the benefits of small class sizes and personalized instruction.

This fall, Colosimo will serve as co-chair of the Honors Program and president of the Student Nurses Association as well as Undergraduate Student Government at �鶹��Ƶ������ȫ Trumbull. She also works as a barista at Broken Leaf Café in Newton Falls.

“I plan to stay focused on my coursework, continue learning and step into leadership roles where I can help foster campus involvement,” she said.

For Colosimo, the study abroad experience is something she hopes more Regional Campus students will pursue.

“�鶹��Ƶ������ȫ goes above and beyond to make these experiences accessible, and they’re absolutely worth it,” she said. “I discovered more about myself, gained confidence and learned how to adapt to new environments while connecting with people from different backgrounds.”

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