Arianna Iacona is working on her Master's Degree in Corporate Finance at Luiss, but that doesn't prevent her from being active in the Rome community, helping out at the renowned Comunità di Sant'Egidio foodbank for the homeless, especially in this time of need. "Between one online lesson or another, I have gotten to know hundreds of people," she states proudly.
Starting her university career at Luiss, Arianna first attained her Bachelor's Degree in Economics and Management choosing Luiss for its "superb quality in teaching and the personalized attention given to students." While still an undergraduate, she joined the Comunità di Sant'Egidio food bank through Luiss to help Rome's homeless population. "I even got involved in organizing meal preparation: Contacting suppliers, getting volunteers to pick up donations, or going myself to get them. Each week we prepare and hand out about 50 plates of food."
During the shutdown, Arianna has turned her attention to Spesa Solidale – a service that collects donated foodstuffs for delivery to the needy or those with physical difficulties. "Right from the start we tried thinking up all kinds of ways to reach our friends without permanent addresses. I love this part of it, because it allows me to see up close how many people really want to help out, donate, and give assistance to those in need."
One of the fundamental truths she's taken on board from her volunteer work is the concept of Commitment – never giving up despite the challenges you face. "Volunteer work isn't so easy: You have to be consistent, determined, and overall passionate about what you do. Exactly like university life," she admits. For Arianna, contributing to her community helped her bypass her natural shyness and bring out hidden traits she didn't know she had.
"Volunteering in your community isn't just a way to fill up your free time. It's also a way to grow and broaden your perspective – Look at the world with a new set of eyes."
When asked about her undergraduate experience at Luiss, Arianna recalls lunches with friends in the garden, Radio Luiss providing the playlist, or afternoons at Study Hall. But her fondest memory is reserved for Graduation Day: "All of us together, all dressed up, happy and super satisfied with what we've accomplished."
Thinking about her upcoming graduation, once she's completed her degree Arianna would like to enter the world of cinema production and distribution. But there's always a door open for Ethical Finance, too. "In the meantime, I'll keep on serving at the front lines of the Sant'Egidio community."