IAHRF is proud to sponsor an all-expenses-paid trip for Italian American college students – Summer 2027
Bring your Italian heritage to life with this fun and immersive journey through Italy.
About the Program
The Italian American Human Relations Foundation (IAHRF), as an Affiliate Organization of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), proudly sponsors sending a college student on the Ambassador Peter F. Secchia’s all-expenses-paid “Voyage of Discovery”.
What You Will Experience
✦ UNESCO World Heritage sites
✦ Local hot spots + breathtaking landscapes
✦ Italian cuisine, history, and culture
✦ Community service in Italy
✦ New friendships with a group of Italian American Peers
Who is Eligible?
✦ Full-time college student
✦ Ages 18–23
✦ Interest in Italian heritage
✦ Preference for first-time travelers to Italy
✦ U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien
✦ Must be member of NIAF
“Arriving in Rome was unforgettable. The itinerary was thoughtfully organized, and we experienced so much in such a short time. Within minutes of arriving, I felt like I had known my fellow travelers for years.”
“Thank you for providing me with an experience that was both culturally enriching and personally transformative. I am proud to have explored my Italian roots, and I will carry the memories and
friendships with me for years to come.”
Letters from past student travelers
June 2025
Dear NIAF / Italian American Human Relations Team:
I am writing to share my experience from this past summer in Italy as a participant in the Voyage of Discovery. I first learned about the program through my sister, who attended a few years earlier and encouraged me to apply. At the time I hesitated and missed the opportunity, but the following year I attended an event where I met Tomasina Perry. She took the time to explain the mission of the organization and the impact this program has on students.
I also appreciated hearing how Louis Rago, President, is committed to supporting students who genuinely want to learn about and connect with Italian culture. With encouragement from both Tomasina and my family, I pushed past my nerves about the application process (especially the video requirement) and submitted my materials. I am grateful I did— and I would encourage future applicants not to let the process intimidate them.
On the day of departure, I was nervous—traveling from Chicago to LaGuardia and meeting the other 23 recipients before our flight to Rome. Within minutes at the gate, however, it felt like we had known each other for years. Nearly a year later, we still keep in touch through a group chat, and I remain especially close with a smaller group of friends from the trip.
Arriving in Rome was unforgettable. After dropping our bags at the hotel, we headed to a nearby café for coffee and began our first tour. The entire itinerary was thoughtfully organized, and we were able to experience so much in a short time, including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Vatican. One of the most meaningful parts of the program was giving back by helping clean the streets of Rome, as well as having the opportunity to join the Board of Directors for dinner.
Thank you for providing students with an experience that is both culturally enriching and personally transformative. I am proud to have explored my Italian roots through the Voyage of Discovery, and I will carry the memories and friendships from this program for years to come.
Sincerely,
Christian Cairo
June 2023
Dear NIAF/American Human Relations Foundation Team,
I am writing to share my experience on the Voyage of Discovery trip to Italy (June 2023). I was thrilled to learn about this opportunity and grateful to be selected to explore my Italian heritage through such an inspiring program.
One of the highlights was attending a NIAF event and having the opportunity to speak alongside Louis Rago, President, and Tomasina Perry. Seeing firsthand the work they do—along with the many supporters who make this program possible—reinforced how meaningful this experience is for students like me.
During our time in Italy, we immersed ourselves in the culture in unforgettable ways. We learned how cheese and wine are made, and we also spent a day giving back to people less fortunate than us—followed by dinner with NIAF Board members. I finally was able to take my first ride on the Gondola and take the bullet train to different cities. The trip was truly life-changing and deepened my pride in our rich culture and traditions.
Because of this experience, I began taking Italian classes starting sophomore year and later chose to study abroad the following summer. This year, as a graduation celebration, I am returning to Italy—something I never would have imagined before this program. I also want to recognize our tour guides, Gabby and Sophia, who were outstanding. As someone traveling internationally for the first time, I was nervous at the beginning, but the trip was so well organized that I quickly felt comfortable.
Our group became close very quickly, and we have stayed connected. Each year we reunite in Washington, DC for the gala, where we volunteer to help set up and attend. I am proud to be part of NIAF as a student and grateful for the opportunity to meet Louis Rago and Tomasina Perry, and to everyone who contributed to making this trip possible.
For any student considering applying: don’t hesitate. It truly is a trip of a lifetime, and the friendships and understanding of our heritage will stay with you forever.
Sincerely,
Courtney Cairo
For more information about a Voyage of Discovery Student Trip,
contact Tomasina Perry: tomasina@iahrf.com