Gretchen, a student from Steinach am Brenner, a charming Austrian town in the Tyrol, has always nurtured a deep love for Italy. This dream began as a child, when, looking at postcards pinned to the bulletin board of her local sporting goods store, she came across two images that deeply impacted her: a gondola gliding silently through the canals of Venice and the majestic Colosseum in Rome.
When, in high school, the opportunity to participate in an Erasmus exchange program arose, Gretchen had no doubts. Her destination would be Italy, and specifically Tivoli, where she had studied the artistic beauty of Villa d’Este. She will forever remember the pages of her art books describing the colorful and vibrant water features of the fountains, dancing to the rhythm of the sun. The magical atmosphere of Tivoli, with its ancient Roman ruins and enchanting gardens, became the stage for her dream.
Gretchen fondly remembers her experiences in this little gem of art and history. During her walks, she observed how the locals, “friendly and lively Romans,” lived life with gusto and passion. Lunches at restaurants serving traditional dishes, lively conversations with locals, and the laughter of children playing in the squares all contributed to making her feel part of something special.
The importance of Erasmus exchanges in the European Union cannot be underestimated. These programs offer students unique experiences abroad, allowing them to learn new languages, grow independently, and plan for the future. For Gretchen, the semester in Italy was not just an academic opportunity, but a true immersion in a culture that fascinated her and gave her lasting memories.
Starting in September, Liceo Pascal in Chieri will welcome students from all over Europe, further enriching its educational environment. The first student, from Germany, has chosen Chieri, a city boasting a rich medieval history. Liceo Pascal stands out as a small and welcoming institution, perfect for those who desire direct and personal contact with their teachers and classmates.
Furthermore, Chieri’s location, just a stone’s throw from Turin, a city rich in history, monuments, and artistic events, represents an added bonus for the students who will live this experience. As Gretchen discovered in Tivoli, art and language can become tools of unity, enriching the lives of young people and creating bonds that transcend borders.
Gretchen’s dream has come true, and now new generations of students have the opportunity to follow in her footsteps, discovering Italy and themselves through the wonderful journey of education and culture.
