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

Sofia Barbieri is the Program Assistant and a native of Reggio Emilia. She earned an undergraduate degree in philosophy and social sciences and a master's in contemporary French and German philosophy. She studied abroad in Canada in high school and has lived in France, Czech Republic, Portugal, and Germany.