Mary Quilici
Italian Class of 2021
What was your major? Why did you choose it?
I double majored in Italian and Biological Sciences. I became interested in majoring in Italian due to the fact that my family is originally from Lucca, Tuscany. I wanted to further my education on my Italian culture, history and language, and to celebrate my heritage.
What are you up to now?
I am currently a dental student studying at the University of the Pacific Dental School in San Francisco. There are a number of patients who cannot speak English, and it is an honor to be able to use my knowledge of Italian to help treat them. I have patients who speak Italian, Portuguese, Spanish and French, and I am able to use the skillset I gained in undergrad to translate what they need and speak back to them in a manner they understand.
Another area in which I am able to use my knowledge of the Italian language and culture is in my work as a board member of the Italian COMITES located in San Francisco. Our group works with the Italian consulate to provide guidance and support to Italians who have the goal of working, living, or studying in the United States. We also support Italian Americans who want to become involved in their communities and build up a strong foundation for Italian American groups in their areas.
How did your experience at UC Davis prepare you for the next step in your academic and professional journey?
UC Davis's Italian program provided me a fully enriched experience in which I was able to achieve my goals and grow in my Italian community.
What's your advice for someone considering your major?
I believe my Italian major along with my biological sciences major truly provided me the perfect balance of culture, art, literature and science. Don't be afraid to get involved with your community, and I hope you consider adding Italian as a major (I promise you won't regret it)!
What was your favorite part of your undergraduate program here?
During my time in the Italian department, some of my favorite memories are from working as the president of CIAO club and the peer advisor for the Italian department. I loved working with the students in our department in such a close and unique way that allowed us all to become active members of our community while in undergrad. I was able to host cooking nights, Italian movie nights, conversational lunches, raffles, and numerous events with our students to help them grow at UC Davis.