On-Site Staff for Reggio Emilia, Italy

Specialty programs have an on-site Resident Director (RD) who is responsible for the USAC office abroad and overall operations of the program, including securing appropriate student housing, hiring top-level faculty, organizing field trips and optional tours, and overseeing your general well-being.

The RD and Program Assistant meets the group flight at the airport, provide on-site orientation, oversee your academic affairs, organize activities, and provide valuable assistance and resources.

Meet the Resident Director

The Reggio Emilia RD is Simona Lai. Simona has degrees in Foreign Languages for Linguistic and Cultural Mediation, a Master’s degree in Foreign Language for International Communication, and advanced graduate certification in Foreign Language Teaching.

Program Assistant

Elena Arcai is the Program Assistant for the Reggio Emilia program. She earned a bachelor’s degree in European Languages and Cultures and a master’s degree in Languages, Cultures, and Communication from the University at UNIMORE.

During her university years, she studied abroad in Almería, Spain, where she studied linguistics and improved her Spanish language skills. She speaks English, Italian, and Spanish, and is excited to work with USAC Reggio students!