Our Instructor
Raffaella Misuraca, Ph.D.
Raffaella Misuraca, Ph.D.
I specialize in Cognitive Psychology and Motivation and am proud to be part of the Speak! team as a specialist in motivation and learning processes. With over 20 years of experience, I have been teaching psychology classes at the college level in both the USA and Italy. Aside from teaching, one of my greatest passions is traveling. When I travel, I immerse myself in the local culture, striving to understand and experience life as the locals do. Being both Italian and American, along with my children, our identity extends beyond citizenship to language and culture. Whether in Italy or the USA, we feel at home in both places. Our lives have been enriched by straddling two worlds, enjoying the unique experiences each has to offer.
During our travels, we embrace the role of explorers, driven by a vocational desire to discover new places, cultures, and ways of living.
My Journey
Travel Reflection
Dining with the Moon
One of our most memorable adventures in Italy was our trip to the Aeolian Islands, particularly Salina. Upon arrival at our rented house, we were greeted by an awe-inspiring sight: the moon, massive and radiant, hovering over the island of Lipari, casting its luminous glow on the tranquil, infinite sea. It was a welcoming sight unlike any other.
That evening, we dined on freshly caught fish on our terrace, accompanied by the moon's gentle light. We marveled at the stars and planets, contemplating their fascinating connection to our existence. As night fell, we were lulled into a deep, restorative sleep by the tranquil sounds of fishing boats setting out for the day.
The next morning, we indulged in a delicious breakfast of granita “fragola e panna” and a brioche, fueling us for a day of exploration along the coasts and charming villages of the Aeolian Islands.
Few travel tips from Raffaella
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Create a Personalized Travel Playlist
Music can set the perfect mood for your adventure. Curate a playlist with songs that remind you of your destination or inspire wanderlust. Don’t forget to include local music for a more immersive experience!
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Try the Local Street Food
Skip the fancy restaurants and dive into the local street food scene. It’s often cheaper and more authentic. Plus, it’s a great way to meet locals and experience the culture firsthand.
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Capture Moments, Not Just Photos
While photos are great for memories, try journaling or sketching your experiences. It’s a fun way to capture your thoughts and feelings about the places you visit and makes for a wonderful keepsake.
Student Spotlights
Real stories from our students
“Sojung is a fantastic teacher. She is so encouraging and always finds ways to tie my interests back to our lessons which helps me retain the information better.“