Each semester, English Writing, Literature, and Publishing (EWLP) students at The American University of Rome embark on internships that offer immersive career experiences in various fields. Currently, EWLP students Nalu Gruschkus, Liliana Zimberg, and Marco Parolin are interning with journalist Alina Trabattoni at EuroNews for the Italian Globo d’Oro film festival, where they are creating and editing both written and visual content for the event.
Like the U.S. Golden Globes, the awards are presented by Italy's Foreign Press Association. Trabattoni is one of the festival's co-artistic directors and has been highly impressed with the students' work; “The American University of Rome interns have been very supportive and have quickly become part of the team,” she said. “They have just integrated seamlessly.”
The trio has attended the festival’s weekly film screenings for over a month. Every Tuesday, they watch that week’s featured film, and following the screening, they participate in media Q&As with the director, often interacting with the film crew and actors. They also record, photograph, and write about the film for social media and the organization’s web page.
For Zimberg and Gruschkus, both film minors, it is a great opportunity to extend their evolving skills in writing and filmmaking. Parolin, a film major, has focused on photographing the events; some of his photos have already been published on the Globo d’Oro Instagram feed. Zimberg and Gruschkus shoot and edit videos, and Zimberg has contributed to article writing and publication. The organization is also encouraging the students to produce and direct a cinematic short about the Italian Golden Globes that may – quality permitting – be aired at the gala ceremony being held next summer.
All three students have praised the internship opportunity, appreciating the chance to hone their writing, filmmaking, and photography skills. The work has posed challenges, particularly in writing in Italian, but the students are adapting and making a significant contribution. “I was scared it was going to be really serious and high-maintenance,” Zimberg said, highlighting a worry students often have regarding internships. If those in charge aren’t accommodating to student schedules, it can be a stressful experience. Since the screenings are just once a week, Parolin said, “our schedule is always tight. We meet from 5-7, hold the Q&A with the director by 8:00, and then by 10:30, we have to send photos, commentary, and articles. There’s not much breathing space!” However, despite the tight deadlines and strict weekly schedule, each student has been quick to state that the real-world commitment is a great addition to their academic experience.
Looking ahead to the festival on July 3rd, the interns anticipate a range of new tasks, including assisting industry professionals and attendees. They continue to build their portfolios, gain valuable experience, and enjoy contemporary Italian cinema. This hands-on experience enriches their education and prepares them for future career opportunities.