Adventures in Italian offers online classes for beginning students of Italian language and Renaissance art.  Whether you are planning a trip to Italy, interested in the Renaissance masterpieces, or just looking to try something new, these classes are for you! I am passionate about all things Italian and love to share my enthusiasm with students.

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Mi chiamo Holly

I have a degree in art history from the University of Rhode Island and a master’s degree in Italian language from Middlebury College, where I studied at the University of Florence with a concentration in Italian art. Following graduate school, I lived in Italy for over five years and worked as a walking tour guide and the Resident Director for Vanderbilt University's Art History Program. I have led trips to Europe with National Geographic Student Expeditions, Putney Student Travel and worked in the Tuscany office for a luxury bike tour company. I have taught Italian in public school as well as adult education classes, where I received an Excellence in Teaching award from the California Council of Adult Education.

Teaching Philosophy

My career path has taken many twists and turns, but I always return to teaching, and I always return to Italy.

I embrace learners of all levels and am accustomed to having a wide range of experience levels in my classroom. Perhaps you took Italian in college a long time ago and just want to brush up. Perhaps you used to speak Italian with your grandparents, or are planning a bucket list trip with a family member. Or perhaps you don’t speak a single word of Italian! Everyone is welcome and will benefit from my classes.

I cultivate an engaging learning environment, even over Zoom! Classes are interactive and fun. In the langauge classes we will cook together, play games, chat about our families, listen to music and do practical exercises to learn phrases for travel. I always provide additional resources for students to continue learning beyond the class.

Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions at all. I am happy to customize classes for a group and to set up a video call to answer all your questions before you sign up.