Tell us about your path to GS.
I lived in Italy as a teenage au pair and learned Italian, [and then] was a NYC SAG AFTRA and Equity actress. Before GS, I originally attended Boston University undergraduate as an acting major where I was on the crew team, and played tennis and volleyball. I have been a sailor my whole life and took time off from GS to cross the Atlantic in my 38 foot ketch sailboat–the experience of a lifetime.
What has been your proudest accomplishment at Columbia?
Being nominated and invited by my professor and mentor Professor Jo Ann Cavallo of the Italian Department to join the National Italian Honor Society for scholastic achievement.
Additionally, while at Columbia GS, I ran five NYC marathons, completed my USCG captain's license, took time off to start my own sailboat charter business and crossed the Atlantic in my 38 foot ketch sailboat.
Who is someone who contributed greatly to your Columbia experience?
Having had the opportunity and privilege of being the student and research assistant for my Columbia Italian professor and mentor Jo Ann Cavallo, who introduced me to the magical world of the romantic chivalric epic poem "Orlando Innamorato" written in 1495 by Matteo Maria Boiardo. Additionally, she shared the world of the Sicilian puppets ("i pupi siciliani") and the family tradition of performing these chivalric epics. In glorious full armor, these often life-size puppets act out their chivalric adventures as they fight for religion, glory, fidelity and love–performing the heroic tales written centuries ago.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Circumnavigating on my sailboat, and coming home to teach and get my Masters degree focusing on the chivalric epic of Boiardo.
What advice would you give to a student who's about to start their GS journey?:
Take it easy and go slowly. And always ask for help!
