By Francesca Biundo
If someone had told me years ago that I would move to Puerto Rico, I would not have believed it. I had a solid teaching position in Illinois, and yet something was quietly pulling me toward the island. It was something beyond the beautiful beaches: its culture and warmth, a familiarity that reminded me of how I grew up in Sicily. I could go on and on writing about how wonderful my adoptive island is, but I will focus on my experience teaching Italian.
I have witnessed genuine interest in the language. While Italian cuisine being so beloved certainly helps, I believe that deep down, it is the affinity these two cultures share. In my lessons, talking about Italian culture is essential, and I find that students relate easily to the similarities while remaining fascinated by the differences.
I have taught adults, teenagers, and children, and although they come from different age groups and backgrounds, their motivations are far more personal than simply fulfilling a requirement: “It’s a beautiful language,” “Spanish will help me learn it,” “I appreciate the culture,” “I want to become a polyglot,” or simply, “I’ve been to Italy—or dream of going.” Even when students do not continue studying Italian, I hope the experience left a positive mark.
Several universities in Puerto Rico offer Italian, along with about seven private secondary schools, mainly in the San Juan and Mayagüez areas. When I began working at one of these secondary schools, Italian was still a new offering. Thanks to strong student interest and administrative support, we were able to grow the program significantly, and many of my former students continued their studies in college and/or in Italy (I am beyond proud of them). Of course, I also need to mention the Alliance Française (where I’ve also taught) which organizes cultural activities and events in addition to their courses and PLIDA certifications -in collaboration with the Società Dante Alighieri of Miami.
Despite language programs and other humanities are unfortunately being cut in many institutions, the study of Italian language and culture here remains alive – and perhaps growing. Italian continues to create meaningful connections to culture, travel, and identity – values that inspire me and keep me teaching.
Francesca Biundo is an Italian instructor with twenty years of teaching experience across public and private schools, homeschooling, private instruction, tutoring, and higher education. She has taught Italian at all levels, from beginner to advanced, including AP Italian Language and Culture.