On December 3rd, Professor Iannacco and her Italian IV & V Honors students went to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, often called the MET, in New York. At the MET, there is a large collection of Renaissance art displayed, and many of these pieces were done by Italian artists. Before the trip, Professor Iannacco had her students research one of these Italian Renaissance artworks before the field trip and find out where it is currently displayed. When they arrived at the MET, the students found their chosen artwork and took a picture. They all conducted research on their pieces, and then presented their findings on the painting, sculpture, or artifact and the artist to their respective classes. 

Professor Iannacco notes that her students were eager to go on the trip, and she saw this anticipation on all of their faces. Despite the MET being around an hour away, many students had never been to the museum. This field trip offered them a new experience where they could explore various types of art as well as further their knowledge of Italian culture. “I liked the appreciation they showed when talking about the art they saw,” Professor Iannacco adds. Not only did Professor Iannacco plan a field trip to the MET, but she is currently organizing a trip for her Italian students to go to Italy over spring break. To fully appreciate all Italy has to offer, her students need to be fascinated by Italian culture and its unique beauty.

Professor Iannacco is a strong believer that learning a foreign language is directly related to culture. She explains that field trips are a great foundation for students to immerse themselves and take their knowledge to another level. “Trips such as this one are essential to our human enrichment,” she goes on to explain. “I believe that experiencing art in person elicits a deeper understanding of culture and appreciation of [cultures] through artistic expression.”