MELBOURNE – Ambitious dreams, a clear vision for the future, and a deep connection to her roots: that’s what defines Caroline Emery, a third-year Monash University student pursuing a double degree in Law and Italian.
For her, the language of the Bel Paese is far more than an academic pursuit – it’s an essential part of her identity. With a touch of nostalgia in her voice, Caroline reflects: “This was my last semester of Italian. I completed the advanced courses, and I’m sad to finish. Studying Italian has been a fundamental part of my journey.”
For Caroline, Italy is not just bound to books or the bond with her maternal grandmother. Last year, she spent two weeks at Monash University’s Prato campus – an unforgettable experience that allowed her to explore pressing global issues such as overtourism in the Cinque Terre and the environmental cost of fast fashion.
“I learned so much about fabrics, materials, and the production processes of the textile industry,” she recalls. But the trip offered much more than academic insight. It was also a personal and cultural immersion – so much so that she hopes to return “every year.” Next time, she adds with a smile, she wants to travel even more widely.
While nurturing dreams of returning to Italy, Caroline has also built strong ties to the Italian community in Melbourne. At Monash, she plays an active role in the Italian Club, where she manages sponsor relations – a responsibility that has opened her eyes to the generosity of the Italian-Australian community.
“Last year we had twenty-six sponsors; this year there are even more – from big names to small businesses and cultural associations, all eager to support us,” she says. “They contribute not only funding but also raffle prizes, experiences, and traditional products. It’s been incredibly moving.”
The highlight of the Club’s calendar is the annual ball – a tradition that unites students, families, and friends. This year’s event, inspired by La Dolce Vita, will take place at the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club in Toorak, with around two hundred guests expected.
“It’s more than a party,” Caroline emphasizes. “It’s a celebration of Italian culture, a moment to come together and feel part of something bigger. There’ll be live music, maybe even a traditional band – and certainly plenty of energy.”
As she wrapped up her Italian studies, Caroline was honoured with the prestigious Dante Alighieri Society Award for Excellence, which recognizes outstanding students. She remembers the ceremony as a milestone: “Hearing the words of president Dominic Barbaro, sharing the moment with fellow students, and receiving the award in front of my grandmother – it’s something I’ll carry with me forever. I’ve taken part in poetry recitation competitions for years, even performing Dante’s verses.”
Her passion for Italian began with a simple wish: to speak to her grandparents in their native tongue. Over the years, that desire has grown into a lifelong commitment.
“I started studying Italian for my grandparents, especially my grandmother,” she explains. “She speaks a mix of Italian and dialect, so we often use English, Italian, and Calabrese together. It’s our special way of communicating and showing affection.”
Caroline draws constant inspiration from the sacrifices her grandparents made when they emigrated to Australia. Their story has shaped her ambition to combine her two fields of study – law and Italian – in service of others.
“I want to work with migrants and focus on their rights. My dream is to make Italian part of my profession – to speak to clients in their own language and make them feel truly welcome.”
