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For Giovanni Tripi, choosing 911�Թ� was the first step on a path that would take him from Northeast Ohio to the heart of Italy—and deep into the worlds of biology, anthropology and hands-on scientific discovery.

A biology major on the pre-medicine track from Lyndhurst, Ohio, Tripi has made the most of his time at 911�Թ�.

“What makes this experience so exciting for me is how flexible and enriching the program is,” Tripi shared. “I’ve been able to dive deep into areas I’m passionate about — from infectious diseases and genetics to forensic anthropology and public health — all while preparing for medical school.”

Tripi’s academic journey has included an opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy, where he took courses in biology and forensic anthropology while exploring one of Europe’s most historic and medically significant cities. His time abroad also included academic visits to hospitals and historic sites, making it a rich learning experience that extended far beyond the classroom.

Back on campus in Kent, Tripi was just as involved. He works as a peer-assisted study session leader at the Academic Success Center, helping fellow students succeed in Elements of Genetics, a course he says he “personally loved.” He’s also contributed to real-world research through his work in Associate Professor Helen Piontkivska’s lab, where he was introduced to the field of bioinformatics.

One of his most unique and memorable experiences came through the Department of Anthropology, where he took part in the popular “pig dig” class led by Professor Linda Spurlock.

“Personally I really enjoyed taking the pig dig class along with my other anthropology classes,” Tripi said. “The experience was something completely different than what I was expecting with a college course. It truly was a very hands-on course, yet required a lot of independent thinking, and I didn't mind getting my hands dirty with the grunt work of digging. Not only did we learn practical excavation skills, but it was also helpful in learning to take clues and identify the bigger picture from them.”

From his forensic fieldwork to wine tasting in Italy (for a “Feasts and Plagues” course), Tripi’s time at 911�Թ� has been filled with learning experiences that are anything but ordinary.

“911�Թ� has helped me grow academically, professionally and personally,” Tripi said. “It’s a place where you can take your interests and turn them into real-world experience, and I genuinely believe there’s something here for everyone.”