This summer, Master of Landscape Architecture students Emma Christ and Rajith Kumar Kedarisetty traveled to Italy as part of the OU study abroad program Landscapes of Italy. This program explores major themes in environmental conservation through the lens of the Mediterranean, past and present.
Throughout four weeks, students visit sites across Italy that showcase the Italian landscape and patterns from the past that are etched into the landscapes of modern Italy. Read on to learn about Christ and Kedarisetty’s amazing experiences in Italy!
Before arriving at OU’s main study abroad campus in Arezzo, the students spent their first few days in Padua, a small city located just west of Venice. In Padua, the students visited the first research botanical garden, Orto Botanico di Padua, which was built in 1545 and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. They also travelled to Venice where they toured several of the city’s magnificent gardens.
After settling into OU’s Arezzo campus, the students began their coursework. As part of the Landscapes of Italy program, they were enrolled in two courses: Garden History, taught by Professor Bret Betnar, and Environmental Conservation, taught by Professor Bruce Hoagland.
Both Christ and Kedarisetty highlighted their professors for going above and beyond to create a fulfilling study abroad experience. “Being able to learn about the history of some of the most amazing gardens to exist was indescribable. If I could do it a million times over, I would. Bruce and Bret were the best professors I’ve ever had,” said Christ.
She continued, “A huge part of Italy is their built environment, and that’s why I enjoyed this class so much. If I had come on my own terms, I don’t think I would’ve seen any of the gardens we went to see. It was so cool to see the way they move their lives around such influential parts of global history.”
According to Kedarisetty, “The faculty’s support was unwavering, creating an environment where curiosity and exploration were encouraged. Their willingness to address questions and engage in discussions, both inside and outside the classroom, fostered an atmosphere of open dialogue. Their guidance wasn’t limited to academic matters; they also offered practical advice on navigating unfamiliar territories, ensuring that our exploration of Italy was not only educational but also smooth and enjoyable.”
He continued, “Their profound understanding of the historical and cultural aspects of the places we explored was evident in the wealth of information they shared. Each excursion became a dynamic learning experience, with the faculty providing insightful context that enriched our understanding of the landscapes, architecture, and local traditions.”
Betnar and Hoagland engaged the students in experiential learning activities alongside their work in the classroom. They visited various botanical and pleasure gardens built by universities, cardinals, scholars and leading families of the Renaissance. They also travelled to several Renaissance villas of Florence and Tivoli where painters, sculptors, architects and poets gathered together during the great flowering of Western culture.
Christ and Kedarisetty were both amazed by the beautiful architecture of these historic villas. Specifically, both of them highlighted Villa Farnese in Caprarola. “What makes Villa Farnese unique is how it combines art, history, and nature in one place,” said Kedarisetty. “It’s not just a house; it’s a whole experience. I felt like I was in a different world, and that’s what made it my favorite part of the trip.”
This trip introduced the students to a whole new perspective of Landscape Architecture and design. “It was really sweet to see the way that the physical environment influenced their daily lives and interactions with each other,” said Christ. “This is why the things we do as builders and planners matter so much, and these classes made me so much more excited to do it. It was amazing to get out of my usual bubble and see other parts of the world.”
Kedarisetty explained, “This trip has ignited a passion within me to approach design with a cultural lens, creating landscapes that are not just aesthetically pleasing but also deeply meaningful. I observed diverse styles, from the classical gardens surrounding villas to more contemporary urban spaces. Experiencing this range helped me see Landscape Architecture as a dynamic field where innovation and tradition can coexist.”
Christ and Kedarisetty urge students to take advantage of this travel-study opportunity. “You get to learn cool stuff, eat amazing food, and see awesome places. Plus, you can make friends from all over the world. It’s like a fun adventure that also helps you learn and grow,” said Kedarisetty.
Christ explained, “Seeing history that dates back as far as these [sites] did was so cool. I was standing in some of the same places as Socrates and Julius Caesar and I got class credit. I mean, that’s just awesome.”
2024 Landscapes of Italy 2024 will take place from June 30-July 22. Learn more about this program and how you can apply at https://link.ou.edu/3QZmBxh.