Advisors for Tour of Italy

Florence: Elena Giannini

Elena Giannini

Born in Florence, Elena studied Liberal Arts at the University of Florence and received her degree in Medieval Archaeology. She aims to help all students get the very best out of their stay in Italy by advising on academics, as well as helping organize social and cultural events.

"I started my advising work as a coordinator for American students in Siena. Now, I enjoy working as a student advisor in Florence, which I have been doing since the Spring 2009 semester. My personal interests include arts, archaeology, theatre, trekking, caving, and climbing."

Rome: Barbara Ulini

Barbara Ulini

Barbara was born in and lives in Rome. She has a BA in Languages and Translation, with majors in English and Spanish.

She recently lived in New York City, and she feels this experience helps her relate with the students, who are experiencing a new culture just as she did.

"I'm drawn to working with young people and making their experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible."

Tuscania: Mei Gontran

Mei Gontran
"I was born and raised in Paris, and I came to Tuscania nearly 30 years ago. Working at the school gives me the opportunity to share my Tuscanian life experience with students.

"My role as student advisor is very rewarding; students all get very close to the local people and to the town itself."

Venice: Matteo Savini

Matteo Savini

Matteo has been part of the Istituto Venezia for nearly 15 years and was instrumental in its founding. He enjoys working with study abroad students and showing them the Venetian way of life.

"I'm from Venice, I grew up here, and I feel deeply Venetian. I can't imagine myself living somewhere else ... Working with students coming from all over the world is really great: it helps to broaden your horizon. You keep learning and enriching your mind and your heart."