Scholarships to attend a university in the United States and to play competitive sports are intended for young athletes residing in Italy, who have the motivation to have a significant educational and sporting experience abroad, but do not have the resources to do so. This is the project in a nutshell. My start in the United StatesUpgraded as of 2023 by University life in Italy In cooperation with Agnelli Foundationfor whom Second Edition 2024-25 It was presented today at a press conference in a wonderful place. Villa Caproni in Romethe new headquarters of Rome City Institute. They were during the press conference The winners of the first edition have been announced.: An exceptional achievement for three young Italian student-athletes who have been awarded full scholarships to continue their academic and athletic careers in the United States, thanks to their athletic and academic merits.
Call for the second edition is already open! It can be consulted here: https://www.collegelifeitalia.com/my-kickoff-in-usa/
This year too, candidates selected – on the basis of high athletic quality, motivation and success in their studies, and limited economic availability that would not allow them to experience abroad – will receive a scholarship from the Agnelli Foundation, which will cover the difference between the scholarship offered by the American College of Athletic Merit and the total amount needed to enroll, attend and continue for the entire duration of the 4-year university course.
In addition to the first scholarship winners, representatives of College Life Italia and the Agnelli Foundation, the press conference featured guests of honor and exceptional testimonials: Giorgio Chiellinialready captain of the Italian national team and recently new Head of Corporate Relations for Football Juventus, Olympic fencing champion Mara Navarriaa new gold medalist in Paris 2024 Olympics.
Eleonora Diversi, Irvin Sola H David Zamuner They are the winners of the first edition of My start in the United States: Two female footballers and a talented female footballer, thanks to her determination and motivation, it became possible. The opportunity to continue their studies and sporting careers in the United States. Connected online from their campuses, the champions had the opportunity to tell their story, share their ambitions for the future and discuss the essential role of education and internationalization in the world of sports.
Eleonora Diversi: 20 years old, born in Lugo (RA), graduated from the Valtorio Economic Technical Institute in Rimini with 100% distinction, already enrolled in an Italian university, is a footballer for the Ravenna team in Serie B, is now taking courses in economics and plays for the University of Our Lady of the Lake team in San Antonio (Texas).
Irvin Sola: He is 19 years old, born in Vimercate (MB), graduated from the IISS Ezio Vanoni in his city, where he obtained an average of 8. He played in the Eccellenza Championship in Italy at AC Leon, and now studies and plays football in the USA in Marietta (Georgia), where he attends the Management Degree course at the University of Life.
David Zamuner: He is 20 years old, born in Corgni (TO), graduated from A. Gramsci Scientific High School in Ivrea, with a GPA of 9. In Italy, he played for the Valorco team in the promotion championship. Passionate about nature and environmental issues, he chose natural science courses at William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey.
“We believe in quality university education. – I announce Andrea GavostoDirector of Agnelli Foundation – And in the possibility of combining sports and studies, which enhances personal growth. We also believe in the importance of educational experiences abroad, but we know that many deserving students and athletes cannot afford them. To make this type of opportunity accessible to those who do not have the means, the Agnelli Foundation decided to partner with College Life Italia on this scholarship program. My Kickoff in USA is an innovative project that empowers motivated and talented young people. It can be an incentive and a model for giving similar opportunities to many others.
Since 2013, College Life Italia has changed the lives of over 1,500 student-athletes, giving them the opportunity to study and play sports at top American universities – He added Stefano Elio RadioPresident of College Life Italy – We are honored to have the Agnelli Foundation on our side to expand these opportunities, allowing young people to broaden their horizons and develop their potential.
“While living in Los Angeles, I realized how important it was to have an experience that combined studying and sports at such high levels. – He explained Giorgio Chiellini – I wholeheartedly support the My Kickoff in USA project because it provides deserving youth with few resources the opportunity to realize their dreams. It is an opportunity that can truly make a difference.“
“As an athlete, I know how important it is to be able to combine sport and study, but it is not always easy to find the right opportunities. – Conclude Mara Navarria – These three men who won the My Kickoff project in the United States will have an amazing opportunity: they will be able to live the experience A unique combination of sports and education at the highest level. Studying at an American college means not having to choose between your passion and your education, but rather the ability to excel in both fields. It is an exceptional opportunity that will prepare them not only as athletes, but also as people ready to face the future with determination and a global vision.
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