A Unique Combination: Study Abroad Student Jake Madeson
Student Jake Madeson
Jake Madeson is a senior at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. A Marketing major with an English minor, Jake spent his Fall 2018 semester at John Cabot University.
What made you decide to choose Rome for your semester abroad?
I chose Rome as my study abroad destination because I was always fascinated by its vast cultural history. This history comes to life at countless iconic sights like the Colosseum, Piazza Venezia, and the Vatican.
You are a Marketing major with an English minor. Why do you think it is a good idea to combine those two fields of study? Marketing is the business world’s outward voice. An education in English improves a student’s ability to utilize the tool of language. When clients are looking to advertise a product or service, they need to successfully communicate that product or service to the public. The best person to determine that message is someone who has been educated in the art of business as well as the art of language. A candidate with an advanced grasp of the English language stands out in the job market because marketing is essentially an industry of storytelling within the context of business.
I can confidently say that expanding my knowledge of literature has broadened my worldview and perspective. Reading literature has fueled me creatively and has resulted in more innovative ideas on campaigns.
Would you recommend combining a degree in Marketing with a minor in English literature?
Yes! I have already been able to apply my studies of literature in my internships. By being a more well-rounded student, I have been able to succeed in a wider range of challenges than my peers who only majored in Marketing.
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to begin my career in marketing. Then, armed with well-refined business acumen, I will go to law school. Ultimately, I would love to be a judge and maybe even become a politician!
What do you miss the most about Rome and Italy?
I miss being in Rome because it was a gateway to Italy, and all of Europe. With Rome as my home base, I was able to explore an entire continent while still being awestruck by the city I was living in.
What advice would you give to future study abroad students?
If I could give any advice to future study abroad students, it would be to embrace the country that you are a visitor in. Find the things you like and make your experience your own.
