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College of Liberal Arts and Sciences University of Florida

Alumni Updates

Jenifer Mejia Flores – Italian Major

Ciao, sono Jenifer! I earned my B.A. (Spring 2024) in Foreign Languages and Literatures (Italian) and International Studies with a concentration in East Asian Languages from the University of Florida. I recently completed my M.A. in Italian Studies at Florida State University.

During my graduate studies, I had the opportunity to develop research projects and present at academic conferences. My primary research interests include second language acquisition, translation studies, and comparative literature, with particular focus on the intersections between Latin American and Italian literary traditions.

In addition to my academic work, I served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for the Italian program in the Department of Modern Languages and Linguistics. Teaching and mentoring students from diverse backgrounds was one of the most meaningful and rewarding aspects of my graduate experience. Teaching Italian not only strengthened my knowledge of the language but also deepened my appreciation and understanding of Italian culture through interactions both inside and outside the classroom. One of my favorite memories was participating in a Dante reading marathon, during which students came together to read the entirety of the Inferno. Currently, I am preparing to continue my academic journey in law school, where I hope to combine my background in languages with my interest in the international dimensions of the legal field.

person posing in a red graduation gown
Person posing with a certificate

Leah Mazur Alumni Update

Hi! I graduated from UF in Spring 2025 with a degree in History, a Minor in Italian Studies, and Certification in teaching English as a Second Language. My Italian minor at UF had an immensely positive impact on my time there (UF in Rome, courses, friends) and on my experiences beyond undergrad (jobs, language skills, connections).

After graduation, I spent a semester teaching English in Darfo Boario Terme, where I had the opportunity to live with families, travel, and teach preschool, elementary, and middle school-aged children. I am currently pursuing a master’s at Harvard Graduate School of Education. My Italian Studies minor and teaching experience were a large part of my application to my graduate program. When I started at UF, I never would have imagined I would be able to complete a language-based minor, but it ended up being one of the best decisions I have made! Italian Studies has been a large part of shaping my future through my continuing education and the professors and friends who have guided me along the way. The knowledge, confidence, and, most importantly, the people that Italian Studies at UF granted me will always be an invaluable part of my life.