Where heritage, innovation and opportunity meet, UNINT is training the next generation of global citizens. We spoke with Rector Mariagrazia Russo about what makes this Italian university an attractive choice – especially for Italian-American students who want to rediscover their roots.
UNINT is known for its international focus. How does this translate into practice?
We have agreements with over 100 universities in more than 50 countries. Last year we ranked first in Rome for the Erasmus KA171 program-an initiative that connects European universities with universities outside the EU, facilitating student and staff exchanges.
We welcome many international students, and more than 30 percent of our graduates participate in a mobility experience outside Italy. The global dimension is part of our DNA.
Why should an Italian-American student consider studying at UNINT?
Because you will find a welcoming and international environment where you will never feel like an outsider. But also because our educational model is strongly rooted in both theory and practice. We have more than 700 partnerships with companies, embassies and institutions-including the FAO-and more than 80 percent of our students do internships in Italy or abroad.
This approach reflects the American academic culture, where the combination of classroom training and hands-on experience is highly valued.And let’s not forget the location: our campus is only four kilometers from the Colosseum. Living and studying in Rome offers a unique cultural immersion that is difficult to match.
What makes UNINT’s academic offerings distinctive?
One aspect that really differentiates us is the interdisciplinary nature of our courses-ranging from economics to educational psychology, from languages to political science-with the opportunity for all students to acquire solid language skills through our School of Interpreting and Translation. We train interpreters in 10 languages-including Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian and Italian Sign Language-and our campus has professional interpreting booths. It is an exceptional training environment for students interested in international communication and diplomacy.
Another strength is our size. We are a “people-friendly” university, and not by accident. With a ratio of 1 faculty member for every 5 students, we are able to offer personalized support and direct mentoring.
Do you offer programs in English for students who do not speak Italian?
Yes, we offer degree programs entirely in English: Luxury, Made in Italy and Sustainability, focusing on Made in Italy and the export of luxury goods, and International Relations, Global Management and Economic Diplomacy, which combines international relations, economics and diplomatic studies.
For students who are bilingual or fluent in Italian-or who wish to become so through our University Language Center-the full range of courses is open, including interpreting and translation and cybersecurity. Bilingualism, particularly in English and Italian, is a powerful asset in today’s job market.
The article UNINT: a university with a global vocation in the heart of Rome comes from TheNewyorkese.