Through a theoretical and strongly experiential learning process, students will be introduced to molding and casting techniques, which are the basis of tridimensional reproducibility. They will create their own shapes and learn how to cast copies of them in different materials such as clay, plaster, silicone, and resins. Ranging from the oldest to the newest techniques, including 3D printing, students will be able to take inspiration from their use in some of Sicily's iconic objects, such as typical ceramic shapes (“formelle”) for quince marmalade, plaster molds for sugar puppets (“pupi di zucchero”), and casting techniques to produce the Moro Head (“Testa di Moro”).

This course serves as an introduction to the Italian language, history, and culture in order to prepare summer program students for everyday interactions in Syracuse. Given the intensive nature of the summer program (five weeks), students will learn essential words and phrases needed to communicate in practical situations, such as grocery shopping, dining out, traveling, and more. Instruction will include a mixture of lectures and immersive visits to local sites, such as the historic Ortigia street market. Coursework will cover key aspects of Italian customs, providing historical background for current cultural norms and etiquette. By developing an understanding of the unique historical and cultural context of Sicily as well as key Italian words and phrases, students are empowered to interact with the local community in a respectful and meaningful way.

Mount Etna, Europe’s largest and most active volcano, serves as one of nature’s most fascinating laboratories, offering valuable insights into magma dynamics, supply, accumulation, ascent, and eruption processes. The course explores Mount Etna’s evolution within its regional geodynamic framework, beginning with the pre-Etnean volcanism of the Hyblean Plateau. Students will study volcanic environments, processes, and their products, the environmental impacts and hazards of volcanism, and the benefits volcanoes provide. The course also introduces advanced techniques for monitoring volcanic and tectonic activity, including predicting magma movement, assessing volcanic instability, and simulating lava flow paths. Through field visits to Mount Etna and Italy’s National Institute for Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), students will engage in data collection, hypothesis testing, and modern scientific technologies, deepening their understanding of earth sciences. This course includes a one-credit lab component.