Story 1 - An American Student In Rome

Character Profile

Name: Mark

Origin: New York, United States

Age: 22 years old

Purpose of visit: Language program and cultural immersion.

Duration of stay: 3 months

Italian proficiency: Started learning Italian six months ago to connect with his Sicilian heritage and to communicate effectively during his stay.

Interests: Language learning, cultural exploration, adventure.

Story outline

Mark, a young American, arrives at Rome's Fiumicino airport ready to begin his Italian adventure. However, he suffers an immediate setback when his luggage is mistakenly sent to Venice. Although he's assured that his luggage will arrive in Rome the same day, Mark is a little disheartened. Nevertheless, he makes his way to Rome's "Termini" train station and interacts with several people along the way, including a kind lady on the train and a street performer who shows him the way to his dorm. When he arrives at his dorm, Mark meets his roommate Luca. Later, he meets Sofia, an Italian student who is eager to exchange languages. As he settles into Roman life, Mark is also introduced to the rich Italian culinary culture and the intricacies of Italian coffee. Through these interactions, he not only learns the language, but also experiences the warm Italian hospitality.