On June 8, 2026, JCU students Isabella Sevilla Aguilera and Chiara Madonna volunteered at Premio De Sanctis, one of Italy's most prestigious literary prizes, held at the magnificent Renaissance Villa Madama in Rome. This opportunity was organized by the Center for Career Services, as part of its commitment to connecting students with unique experiential learning opportunities.
Premio De Sanctis is an international award presented to individuals and organizations that have achieved excellence in literature, economics, European culture, social welfare, and the defense of human rights. Established in 2009, it is awarded annually by the Fondazione De Sanctis in collaboration with the Italian government and under the patronage of the President of the Italian Republic.
As volunteers, Isabella and Chiara assisted with VIP guest relations and event logistics, gaining a rare behind-the-scenes view of one of Italy's most celebrated cultural events. Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Italy's Minister of Justice, Carlo Nordio, the Director of the Vatican Museums, Barbara Jatta, and the Ambassadors of France and Spain to Italy, respectively Anne-Marie Descôtes and Miguel Ángel Fernández-Palacios Martínez.
English Language and Literature major Chiara Madonna shared her experience with us.
What drew you to this opportunity?
I chose to participate because seeing how an event of this level operates from the inside seemed incredibly interesting. Furthermore, being able to step inside Villa Madama, which is usually closed to the public, was an opportunity I could not miss! As explained by the director of the Vatican Museums, Barbara Jatta, the villa was designed by the great Renaissance artist Raphael, and its construction involved many significant Italian historical figures.
What was the most memorable moment of the evening?
The highlight of the event was interacting with some of the leading personalities in diplomacy as well as Italy's literary and cultural scenes. Standing in the beautiful courtyard of Villa Madama, watching the Italian cultural community come together, made me feel like I was actively contributing to a piece of living history.
What did you take away from the experience?
In the classroom we learn about literary history, reading and analyzing texts from a more theoretical point of view, but we do not usually interact with the authors we study. Although John Cabot University often gives us the opportunity to meet many writers from all over the world, this was a chance to be part of a high-level cultural event and witness the most brilliant minds on the contemporary literary scene interact with each other. This experience also taught me the importance of cultural diplomacy, challenged me to adapt to strict protocols, and remain calm when sudden schedule changes happened.
