Maria Iannone
Class of 2008

Hometown: Milan, Italy
High School: American School of Milan
Major: Theatre

Why did you choose to come to the United States for college?
After my graduation in 2005 I moved to the U.S. because I wanted to continue my American education in the U.S., instead of choosing an American university abroad. My mom is American so I decided to move to Minnesota, where my grandparents and uncles live.

When you were making your college decision, you initially chose a public institution, and then transferred to Augustana. What factors did you consider when making the transition?
When moving to Sioux Falls I wanted to make sure I found a university that fit my international nature, as I have lived in Milan, Italy for the first 18 years of my life. The first institution I attended wasn't a great fit for me, as most of the students had never traveled outside of the state they were born in or even out of the U.S. When transferring, I also wanted to find an institution that had a good theatre program and that would allow me to finish my major in a year, since I was a senior credit-wise.

What differences do you notice between public and private colleges in the U.S.?
Private and public colleges are different in that private colleges provide you with a more thorough education and more activities students can become involved in. In my experience, Augustana is smaller (number wise) than my previous institution, but I prefer that because I enjoy small classes where you can have group discussions and everyone can contribute. In fact, I graduated from the American School of Milan in 2005 with 29 people, so I am used to classes with no more than 15 people.

So, you like the liberal arts emphasis at Augustana?
Yes, I value the liberal arts emphasis at Augustana, and I strongly believe that all colleges should partake in it. A liberal arts emphasis allows students to leave college with a multitude of experiences and knowledge. I believe that it is necessary for students to graduate with a well-rounded education, so they can face situations with multiple perspectives.

Are you happy that you transferred? If so, why?
I am so happy I transferred to Augustana because I immediately sensed that the faculty and students were more culturally aware and appreciative. Seeing as many students travel abroad at Augustana, I was delighted to talk about their experiences and at the same time find that people were very interested in my life in Italy too. Furthermore, I became immediately integrated into the Augustana theatre company, and have made many friends throughout my first (and last) year here. Everyone has been caring and friendly towards me, ever since the first day I visited campus.

From your perspective, are there good cultural opportunities at Augustana and in Sioux Falls?
Yes, I think there are many cultural opportunities at Augustana and in Sioux Falls. For example, the Augie Reads program is a wonderful program, promoting cultural understanding. I work at the Axtell Park after school program (funded by the YMCA) and I get to spend time with kids from many different backgrounds.

How did you choose to become a theatre major?
I have been performing on stage every since I was very little, and I always knew I wanted theatre to be a part of my life. The ability to communicate with and move an audience is a truly unique experience. My other great passion is dance, which has also been part of my life since I was very young. I not only enjoy the physical nature of dance but the beauty of creating a story through choreography.

What is the best class you have taken at Augustana?
The best class I have taken at Augustana would have to be Contemporary Dramatic Literature with Ivan Fuller. He is not only a wonderful professor, but he chose a unique selection of new plays to read over the course of the semester. we would read one or two plays a week and then discuss them in class. I enjoyed our small class because we had great discussions about questions the plays would bring up.

What do you miss about "home"?
I miss the food back home, even though I have gotten used to restaurants like the Olive Garden and Johnny Carino's that serve "authentic" Italian food. I miss little things, like walks I would take with friends to the gelateria (ice-cream place) in my neighborhood in the summer, or going out to clubs in downtown Milan with my friends. Most of all, I miss my dad's side of the family who lives in Naples, Italy. Every Christmas, Easter break and every other summer (we would alternate going to the U.S. and Naples) we would drive 8 hours to spend a couple of weeks with my Italian relatives. I have many fond memories of moments spend with my cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents (my dad has a very big family).

Who is your biggest influence? Why?
My mom is my biggest influence. She has been a role model for me my whole life. She is such a caring and giving person, always putting others above herself. My family in general (my mom, dad, and two sisters) is so important to me and has always been there for me. I cannot thank them enough for everything they have done to make me who I am today.

What do you like to do for fun? Have you tried anything new since coming to Augustana?
I love the Group Exercise class I am taking with Gina Moravec. She is such a wonderful instructor and I have recently become a fan of step aerobics because of her. I enjoy the dance-like movement involved and I always feel energized after class.

At this point, what are your plans for the future?
After graduation, I am planning on going to see my family in Italy for some time, since it has already been two years I have not seen them. Once I get back, I am moving to Minneapolis and going to be looking for a job in theatre and also most probably teaching dance at a studio, or becoming part of a dance company. Sometime in the near future, I would like to go back to school and get an MFA in dance.