The Beauty of New Experiences: Meet Communications Major Bronte Delmonico
Bronte Delmonico is a Communications major at JCU. Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, she is the president of Women’s Leadership Initiative.
Tell us about yourself.
In high school, I was a part of the International Baccalaureate Program, which provides students with a global perspective. This is what prompted me to apply to universities abroad and come to JCU. I had never visited Rome before and didn’t speak any Italian, but when I came here, I loved it. I was very thankful to have great roommates and adjust to the school quickly.
When I came to JCU, I was an International Affairs and Communications double major. Later, I decided that I wanted to major in Communications and do a double minor in International Affairs and Legal Studies. I’ve loved studying communications, and I’ve enjoyed the professors and the program.
What was the appeal of attending a university abroad?
American college life didn’t resonate with me. I knew I wanted to travel and get exposure to new people and cultures. Even in my classes at JCU, everyone has very diverse backgrounds and this has been fundamental to my academic and personal growth. I felt I wouldn’t be able to find the same environment at an American college.
What made you want to join the Women’s Leadership Initiative?
I started attending the Women’s Leadership Initiative freshman year. There was a strong sense of community, and I loved the environment. I think what appealed to me most was the opportunity to connect with new people and gain resources for my undergraduate network. At the end of my first semester, I applied to be a representative officer, and after that, I applied to be vice president. After a year in that position, I had the privilege of becoming president.
Watching the club grow has been such a beautiful thing. I think focusing on the three pillars of connection, advocacy, and professional development has been important for me. Also, I have loved working with the people on the executive board. They are incredible individuals who are always great at making things happen.
There are many things we want to achieve and advance with the club, but at the basis of all our events is creating a safe environment for women and people who identify as women. We would like to advance gender equality and equity, as well as bringing resources, connections, and safety to the students at JCU and beyond.
What upcoming events does the Women’s Leadership Initiative have planned for International Women’s Month in March?
On March 4, we are hosting a Meditation and Mindfulness session with Professor Gina Siddu Pilia to advocate for women’s health and wellness. On March 5, we are celebrating International Women’s Day early by hosting an event in the Lemon Tree Courtyard and will be inviting faculty and students to speak in honor of the important day. On March 26, we are excited to partner with the Health and Well-being office to welcome back Relationships and Sex Education consultant Vicky Walsh for a special Period Products Workshop. Lastly, we are collaborating with various student clubs to host the event “Storytelling Night: Women Who Inspire Us,” where students are invited to a dynamic and engaging reflection on the month. We are also working on several other events throughout the month, which will be shared via our email and on our social media platforms.
What is your favorite memory from your time at the Women’s Leadership Initiative?
I think one of my favorite memories as a member of the club was when I went to one of my first events. We sat in a circle and talked about the women in our lives. I talked about my mom. She is the most hard-working, resilient, supportive, and loving woman I know. She has always encouraged me to follow my ambitions, and I am forever thankful and proud to be her daughter.
It was beautiful to hear all the different stories. Everyone had women in their lives who impacted and influenced them. Being there as someone from North Carolina, it was amazing to be surrounded by so many different cultures and backgrounds. I found that sense of community I was looking for when I initially came overseas to do my undergraduate degree.
What are your plans for the future?
I would like to get my master’s degree in law. It has been a complicated process, but I am thankful to have the help of my professors and advisors at JCU to walk me through it. I have appreciated going to a small university because it has allowed me to get to know my professors. They have helped me and watched me grow academically.
When it comes to law, I would like to do something in either anti-discrimination or intellectual property to lean more into my communications background. I don’t have the traditional academic background to go into law, but it has been something I’ve wanted to do for a while.
What is your advice for incoming students? What would you say to Americans who are thinking of pursuing an education abroad?
Take the risk of coming here because it is the best thing you could do for yourself. I think there is not one person I’ve met who has regretted their time at JCU. I would also say to take advantage of Rome and being young and having access to travel. Experience new cultures and do not be afraid to put yourself out there. Also, as a JCU student, don’t forget to take advantage of the resources offered at school. JCU has grown so much since I first came, and the opportunities are endless.
