Study Abroad
Italy is home to the oldest family businesses in the world. Think about the sprawling hills of fruit orchards, olive trees and vineyards—many have been managed by the same families for over 100 or even 200 years. Because of this rich history of family business management, the UNI Family Business Center is offering a two-week study abroad course in Summer 2025.
We also offer a parallel track for members of the UNI Family Business Center to learn from their international counterparts. The Business Track and Student Track will overlap briefly during business tours, but will largely act as separate trips with separate accommodations, itineraries and focus groups.
Join us to tour businesses, learn about the culture and experience Italy!
Student Track
May 19: Arrival in Milan
Arrive independently in Northern Italy and get settled into your accommodation. In the evening, join the group for a welcome
dinner at the hotel or a nearby local restaurant, providing a perfect opportunity to connect with other students and discuss the exciting journey ahead.
May 20: Milan
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel. You'll have a full day of coach service today for a visit to Branca Distillerie.
May 21: Milan
Start your morning with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a half-day guided walking tour of Milan. This immersive
experience will allow you to delve deeper into the local attractions and gain insights into the region's business landscape. After
the tour, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, taking the time to explore at your own pace.
May 22: Parma
Following breakfast, transfer via coach to Parma, where a visit to the Strappiano Rice Factory awaits. This unique opportunity not only
broadens your understanding of the local industry but also provides valuable insights relevant to your field. In the evening,
partake in a group dinner, enhancing the camaraderie formed during your travels.
May 23: Parma
Enjoy another breakfast before meeting for an hour to reflect on and discuss the previous days. Following this, you'll have use of a coach for more visits to facilities owned by Iowa-based Krasue Group and Kemin Industries.
May 24: Sorrento
Following breakfast, you will transfer to Sorrento. This picturesque coastal town welcomes you with its breathtaking views and
vibrant atmosphere. Unwind during a group dinner and share your thoughts on the journey so far.
May 25: Sorrento
Start your day with breakfast and then take a half-day tour to the historic site of Pompeii. Experience a guided exploration of the
excavations, absorbing the ancient history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
May 26: Sorrento
Start your day with breakfast and then take a half-day tour to the historic site of Pompeii. Experience a guided exploration of the
excavations, absorbing the ancient history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
May 27: Sorrento
Breakfast prepares you for a full day tour. This day includes visits to a mozzarella factory and a lemon farm, enriching your understanding of local agriculture and production methods. Gather together for a relaxed group dinner later in the evening.
May 28: Sorrento
Enjoy breakfast before gathering for another 1 hour meeting to share insights and ideas. Then set out on a full-day tour that includes a visit to a local farm and a cooking class, allowing you to apply practical skills in a culinary setting.
May 29: Sorrento
After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Sorrento. This evening, take part in one last group dinner to reflect on the trip and connect with your colleagues and students one final time, solidifying the experiences shared throughout the day.
May 30: Sorrento
Conclude the journey with breakfast before you depart to the airport.
Business Track
May 19: Arrival in Milan
Arrive independently in Northern Italy and get settled into your accommodation. In the evening, join the group for a welcome
dinner at the hotel or a nearby local restaurant, providing a perfect opportunity to network with colleagues and discuss the
exciting journey ahead.
May 20: Milan
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel. You'll have a full day of coach service today for a visit to Branca Distillerie.
May 21: Milan
Start your morning with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a half-day guided walking tour of Milan. This immersive
experience will allow you to delve deeper into the local attractions and gain insights into the region's business landscape. After
the tour, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, taking the time to explore at your own pace.
May 22: Parma
Following breakfast, transfer via coach to Parma, where a visit to the Strappiano Rice Factory awaits. This unique opportunity not only
broadens your understanding of the local industry but also provides valuable insights relevant to your field. In the evening,
partake in a group dinner, enhancing the camaraderie formed during your travels.
May 23: Parma
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you'll have use of a coach for more visits to facilities owned by Iowa-based Krasue Group and Kemin Industries.
May 24: Parma-Rome
After breakfast, begin your Roman adventure with a morning train ride from Parma to Rome. After dropping off your luggage at
the hotel, embark on a half-day walking tour of the historic center. Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain and the
Spanish Steps, immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of the Eternal City.
May 25: Rome
Dive into the ancient wonders of Rome with a guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. Explore the
grandeur of these historic sites and uncover the stories of Rome’s illustrious past.
May 26: Vatican City
Spend a full day exploring Vatican City, especially significant during the Jubilee. Visit the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica,
and other sacred sites. If time permits, enjoy some free time to further explore or relax.
Meet Your Trip Leaders
Dan Beenken
Dan is a professor of entrepreneurship and the director of the UNI Family Business Center, will lead the Student Track and teach the course.
Jayne Kielman
Jayne is the business development manager at the UNI Family Business Center, will co-lead the Student Track alongside Dan.
Katie Kreis-Voigt
Katie is the marketing manager at the UNI Family Business Center, will lead the Business Track.
Dan Beenken
Director
dan.beenken@uni.edu
(319) 273-4322
Jayne Kielman
Business Development Manager
jayne.kielman@uni.edu
(319) 273-4333
Katie Kreis-Voigt
Marketing Manager
katie.kreis@uni.edu
(319) 273-4724
Sneak Peek
View the first informational session on YouTube (download the PowerPoint) and register for the second informational session happening Oct. 8, at noon.