Victoria Randazzo
  • English
  • Class of 2018
  • Hebron, CT

Victoria Randazzo Writes Fiction in Italy

2017 Aug 23

Fourteen students from Eastern Connecticut State University spent a month this summer in Florence, Italy, in a global field course called "Creative Writing Abroad." The region of Tuscany's rich culture and picturesque landscapes inspired students' literary senses as they wrote, critiqued and edited original works of fiction.

Among the students was Victoria Randazzo '18 of Hebron, who majors in English.

"My story had an element of fantasy that some compared to Alice in Wonderland," said Randazzo. "While mine was entirely fictional, there were other students in the class who wrote about realistic scenarios. One thing everyone's story shared was a touch of Florence. Whether characters or places, everyone drew from daily experiences on our trip. I was happy to get more in touch with my creative side; the beauty of Florence was an inspiration."

Led by English Professor Christopher Torockio, the students gathered for writing workshops at SACI-Studio Arts College International (in Florence)-and immersed themselves in Italian culture as they visited the famed cities of Fiesole, Siena, San Gimignano, Lucca and Pisa.

"A highlight of my trip was becoming familiar with restaurant and shop owners," added Randazzo. "The people of Florence are very welcoming and always willing to help out. The food was incredible and always a short walk away. We expanded our travels around Italy via train to places like Rome, Venice and Lucca. The bonds created with locals and fellow students were also a big part of my trip that I will look back on fondly."