Luiss student Domenico Ciarcelluti is currently studying for his Management Master's Degree: "It was a real challenge to get prepared and improve my personal capabiltiies so I could attend one of the most prestigious schools in Italy."
When he's not studying, Domenico volunteers with the Luiss committee that provides support within Rome's Sant'Egidio Community. It was through the University that he heard about the VolontariaMENTE opportunities for giving back to the community. He works primarily at the "Scuole della Pace – School of Peace", a program for children situated in one of the most at-risk communities in Rome. "We help them in afternoons to do their homework. By virtue of being a constant presence, we become someone they can count on. By our example, we open up the world of university students to them and the importance of nurturing culture, non-violence and strong friendships," he explains. Domenico continues, explaining the numerous challenges these children face on a day to day basis; beset by problems that at their tender age they should not have to deal with.
Even in the course of this pandemic the volunteers continue showing up for their kids. "We've asked them to send over their drawings so we can make a quarantine diary, chronicling their days." Domenico carries on, remarking how important it is, in such a complicated time as this one, to form even stronger ties. "We make a commitment to keep our relationship going, something we can do even virtually given the devices at our disposal in today's day and age."
According to Domenico, Luiss values go hand-in-hand with the very act of volunteering: especially meritocracy and achieving excellence. "I have met so many kids that, given the right tools, could become Italy's talent of tomorrow."
Domenico sends out his appeal to all his fellow students to give back as a volunteer: "Oftentimes, when things get tough, we tend to forget the least among us. But sometimes, all it takes to make someone's day is an internet connection." He invites people to reach out to a volunteer organization and offer to help those most in need. "It's important to take that first step. The rest will follow. You'll reap unimaginable benefits, and you'll be able to put your own problems and anxieties into perspective. You'll find they start to take up a whole lot less space."
On campus, Domenico cites his months as Creative Manager in the Luiss Language Cafè, as one of the best experiences of his university career, largely because he got to meet people from all over the world. As for his future? "I hope I can always continue learning, discovering and never letting myself get bored - ever."