Rosa Di Grottole became an integral part of the Italia in Ohio team in 2017, initially joining as an instructor for Italian and Art History. In 2021, she forged a partnership with Sergio Simon and established the Italian Dream Academy.
Throughout her tenure, Rosa has coordinated our diverse range of courses and currently presides over the direction of our Academic Program. She conducts lessons spanning all levels of Italian language proficiency, while working on immersive experiences and innovative projects such as our Book Club and Cultural classes at the Columbus Museum of Art.
Her aspiration to harmonize Art, Language, and Travel led to our language-immersion Study Abroad programs. These initiatives took place in Tuscany (2019), Southern Italy (2022), and Veneto (2023).
In addition to IDA, Rosa holds the role of Full-Time Italian Lecturer and Assistant Director of the Italian Language Program at the Ohio State University.
Rosa’s journey commenced in the picturesque region of Basilicata, located in the southern part of Italy. After obtaining her Liceo Scientifico (High School) Diploma, she graduated in 2008 with a degree in Cultural Heritage and Preservation Studies (BA) from the University of Florence. Subsequently, in 2009, Rosa was awarded a scholarship to study at the prestigious Sorbonne University, which led her to Paris. There, she dedicated herself to her thesis research and embraced the enchantment of “La vie en Rose.” Rosa’s academic journey continued in Tuscany, culminating in her graduation with an Art History degree (MA, summa cum Laude). She trained as a Guida Turistica of Tuscany and immersed herself for 4 years in the vibrant cultural scene of Lucca, a gem near Florence.
In February 2016, Rosa embarked on a new chapter by relocating to Columbus, OH. Since then, she has constantly worked on her education, work experience, and personal growth. Her tenure at Columbus State Community College as an educator spanned four enriching years.
In 2020, Rosa attained the CEDILS certification of competence in Teaching Italian as a foreign or second language. Subsequently, she achieved an Executive Master in Teaching Italian Language and Culture to foreigners from the University La Cà Foscari in Venice, with an interesting thesis on Intercultural Competence.
Recently, Rosa furthered her professional development by participating in a specialized course at Harvard University, focused on Online Strategies for Higher Education. Moreover, she successfully completed a Neurolanguage Coaching course accredited by ICF (International Coaching Federation), enhancing her ability to offer students a more efficient and personalized learning approach.
Outside her professional sphere, Rosa nurtures her love for Art and creativity. Years dedicated to playing and studying the piano have enriched her appreciation for the arts. During her leisure time, she indulges in reading, exploring new destinations worldwide, and uncovering the beauty of diverse cultures.
In Rosa’s words… “I truly love my job because it’s constantly and incredibly inspiring. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn, collaborate, meet, connect and get to know other people and share our stories and cultures.”
rosa@italiandreamacademy.com