Salve from Italy! I’m Harrison, a rising sophomore in Lovett College studying mechanical engineering. I have an interest in energy, sustainability, and equitable resource distribution. Along those lines, I’ve been building machines for years, usually with a focus on energy generation or efficiency.
I’m excited to be in Bologna as a part of the iSEED program and am looking forward to experiencing the city’s culture, history, and food…especially the food! My time in Bologna will be a great opportunity for me to learn as much as possible and expand both my academic and personal horizons while immersing myself in everything the city has to offer.
When I was considering studying in Italy, I was surprised to learn that Bologna is known for its academic reputation and its connection to some of the world’s top mechanical companies. The University of Bologna is the oldest university in the Western world – founded in 1088 – and is considered the best university in Italy and one of the best globally; its students have included Nicolaus Copernicus and Umberto Eco. As a manufacturing hub, Bologna is home to Lamborghini, Ducati, and Ferrari as well as companies that supply parts for NASA and ESA. Ultimately, I thought Bologna would have great intellectual, engineering, and cultural energy and was excited to think I might bump into the next Copernicus standing in line for gelato.