Leadership Abroad: 成人大片Students Explore Global Sports and Culture in Italy
Led by Dr. Matt Ohlson, associate professor of leadership at the 成人大片, the Sports & Leadership Italia study abroad program gave students an extraordinary opportunity to explore international leadership through the lens of global athletics, culture, and community.
The ten-day immersive experience brought students face-to-face with some of Italy’s top athletic and civic institutions, including the Italian National Olympic Committee, the Ministry of Youth & Sports, and professional teams such as AC Milan and Inter Milan. Students also had the rare opportunity to meet with the Italian National Women’s Volleyball Team and legendary coach Julio Velasco, gaining insight into leadership and performance at the highest level of competition.
“Seeing how leadership in sports operates within a different economic and cultural context broadened my understanding of what it means to lead internationally,” said one student participant. “Italy’s deep commitment to sport and youth development was inspiring.”
In addition to leadership-focused programming, the group explored iconic landmarks like the Colosseum in Rome and the Duomo in Milan, engaged in culinary and cultural experiences—from hands-on cooking classes with local chefs to exploring Roman farmers markets—and enjoyed some of Italy’s most beloved cuisine, including pasta, pizza, tiramisu, and gelato.
The program also emphasized personal growth, with many students reflecting on how navigating unfamiliar cities, adapting to language barriers, and embracing new cultural experiences helped them grow in confidence, flexibility, and emotional resilience.
“I stepped out of my comfort zone and made it a goal to try new things—from unfamiliar foods to spontaneous activities I would normally shy away from,” said a student. “As the girls would say, ‘When in Rome!’”
The bonds formed during the trip were just as powerful as the places visited. Students spoke of forming meaningful friendships and a strong sense of community during their shared journey.
“My leadership journey in Italy will impact me in many ways, but one that has stuck with me is the confidence it has instilled in me,” one student shared. “This study abroad experience has made me a more confident leader and encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone more often.”
The Sports & Leadership Italia program exemplifies UNF’s commitment to global learning, experiential education, and developing the next generation of leaders who are prepared to thrive—and lead—on an international stage.
