Pedro de Ángel-Rodríguez

I took part in a Short-Term Abroad Program related to the cultural impact of football/soccer in Italy (Course Code: SPM/SAL 300), which consisted of trips to five major cities: Rome, Florence, Milan, Bologna, and Como. During the trip, I visited famous landmarks around the country, such as the Colosseum, and iconic sports venues like the San Siro Stadium in Milan. The program also allowed me to network and connect with industry professionals who work for teams such as Juventus FC, Bologna FC 1909, and ACF Fiorentina. I very much enjoyed the cultural enrichment from being in Italy; it was my first time in a country where the official language was not one I had spoken before, so I had to get out of my comfort zone to learn some of the language. This only made me want to visit more countries and experience different cultures from all around the world.

I was surprised by how calm life in Italy is. I had a sense of calmness and safety in all five cities I visited. The locals were also very kind to me, even when it was difficult to understand or speak their language.

We visited the stadium facilities of Bologna FC 1909 and the training ground of AFC Fiorentina, both professional football/soccer teams playing in the Italian first division. This experience allowed me to connect with professionals who work in the European sport industry, a field in which I aspire to work one day. Hence, for me, this trip was a perfect combination of cultural education and professional growth.

Having this experience pushed me to study abroad once again, this time in the SU Madrid Center during the semester of Spring 2026. I took this decision as I want to meet more professionals in my industry of interest and visit more places in Europe and the world.

Receiving an award grant allowed me to cover half of my Short-Term Abroad Program’s fee, which ultimately allowed me to commit to the program with no financial problems preventing me from doing so. I am very grateful for the support I received and am excited to share my experience with students in the Honors program!