Camilla Alcini, Graduate Student in Journalism School

Which program/department are you in?

Journalism School.

What is your primary area of research?

Journalism.

Which country (or countries) do you come from?

Italy.

How long have you been in the U.S.?

I arrived this August (2022).

Tell us about how your past experiences led you to Columbia.

After high school in Italy, I knew I wanted to go abroad, but it was too late to apply anywhere. Thus, I took a gap year. It turned out to be a great decision (although a bit forced). I had a chance to spend part of it during fall in New York – everything looked pretty, covered in orange and yellow foliage. I visited Columbia for the first time then and I immediately fell in love. It looked like a movie scene but it felt even better. I told myself, “one day I will study here,” and I took a pen at J-School as a lucky charm / reminder. I moved to London soon after for my undergraduate and during my time there, the interest for journalism grew to the point of confirming that applying to the best journalism program in the world was not only a dream but also a good idea for my career. It took a lot of sacrifices, but here we are!

What inspired you to come to Columbia?

I've moved here to New York, specifically to Columbia, in order to become the best version of myself. I want to be a great storyteller of our times and make an impact. Even after a few weeks of being in the USA, I feel like there is no other place in the world that could better prepare me for it.

What is your impression of NYC thus far?

People are clearly driven and passionate in a way that is contagious and inspiring. Everyone is here to achieve something. Adjusting to living in a different continent, with different rules and habits, is proving to be a challenge. I feel less safe here, especially on public transport or when I walk alone at night, but at the same time, I know where to go if I need help. NYC is simply magic, it makes you feel like you’re in the center of the world and anything is possible.

What do you like to do (hobbies, etc)?

Some of my hobbies include writing, reading, traveling and cooking. This city is proving to be great for the first two, I spend so much time in cafes with my book and PC. I also love to take pictures and videos, and you can see it clearly in my social media! I'd like to pick a new hobby while I am here in NYC – I was considering joining a pottery or salsa class, and hopefully keep up with French classes. Open to recommendations!

Connect with Camilla on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and Tik Tok.

Are you (or do you know) an international student, scholar, or alumni?

We’re looking to spotlight stories of academic or professional work, leadership, or personal adjustment to life at Columbia and NY in particular and the U.S. in general.

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