Eric Ortner, JD

I've often been amazed that my choice to study Italian has somehow touched every significant stage of my life since then.  Connections that I made through the Italian department took me to work in Europe after graduation.  When I returned and applied to law school, my professors in the Italian department wrote excellent letters of recommendation.  As a law student, I studied abroad in Italy once again and made friends who are practicing law in Italy today.  I recently worked on contract for a law firm in San Francisco because they needed to advise a client on insurance policies that were in Italian.  It almost seems as if Italian has chosen me, more than I chose it.  It continues to open doors and takes me places that I never would have expected.

I have so many great memories from my time studying Italian at UC Davis that I honestly don't think I could choose just one.  I loved my many lengthy discussions with Antonella Bassi where we would compare many aspects of American and Italian culture.  Every time I hear the term "Macchiavellian" used, I can't help but recall my class with Professor Schiesari, who helped me understand the writings of one of Italy's most intriguing and enduring authors.  My literature classes with Professors Heyer-Caput and Cannon were excellent preparation for the study of law.  They made me a better writer in both Italian and English and helped me develop analytical skills that help me every day.  So, to name my most inspiring Italian experience at UC Davis, I would probably have to answer, "all of them."