Rosa Di Grottole joined the Italia in Ohio team in 2017, bringing her expertise in Italian language and Art History to the classroom. In 2021, she partnered with Sergio Simon to co-found the Italian Dream Academy, a project rooted in cultural exchange and linguistic excellence. As of January 2025, Rosa is the sole owner of the Academy, leading it with renewed vision and unwavering dedication.
Over the years, Rosa has played a central role in shaping our academic offerings. She currently oversees the direction of our Academic Program and teaches Italian at all proficiency levels. Her work extends beyond the classroom as she designs immersive learning experiences and spearheads innovative initiatives like the Book Club and our Cultural Classes in collaboration with the Columbus Museum of Art.
Her aspiration to harmonize Art, Language, and Travel led to our language-immersion Study Abroad programs. These initiatives took place in Tuscany (2019), Southern Italy (2022), Veneto (2023), Tuscany, Veneto and Southern Italy (2024).
In addition to IDA, Rosa holds the role of Full-Time Italian Lecturer and Assistant Director of the Italian Language Program at the Ohio State University.
Rosa’s journey commenced in the picturesque region of Basilicata, located in the southern part of Italy. After obtaining her Liceo Scientifico (High School) Diploma, she graduated in 2008 with a degree in Cultural Heritage and Preservation Studies (BA) from the University of Florence. Subsequently, in 2009, Rosa was awarded a scholarship to study at the prestigious Sorbonne University, which led her to Paris. There, she dedicated herself to her thesis research and embraced the enchantment of “La vie en Rose.” Rosa’s academic journey continued in Tuscany, culminating in her graduation with an Art History degree (MA, summa cum Laude). She trained as a Guida Turistica of Tuscany and immersed herself for 4 years in the vibrant cultural scene of Lucca, a gem near Florence.
In February 2016, Rosa embarked on a new chapter by relocating to Columbus, OH. Since then, she has constantly worked on her education, work experience, and personal growth. Her tenure at Columbus State Community College as an educator spanned four enriching years.
In 2020, Rosa attained the CEDILS certification of competence in Teaching Italian as a foreign or second language. Subsequently, she achieved an Executive Master in Teaching Italian Language and Culture to foreigners from the University La Cà Foscari in Venice, with an interesting thesis on Intercultural Competence.
Recently, Rosa furthered her professional development by participating in a specialized course at Harvard University, focused on Online Strategies for Higher Education. Moreover, she successfully completed a Neurolanguage Coaching course accredited by ICF (International Coaching Federation), enhancing her ability to offer students a more efficient and personalized learning approach.
Outside her professional sphere, Rosa nurtures her love for Art and creativity. Years dedicated to playing and studying the piano have enriched her appreciation for the arts. During her leisure time, she indulges in reading, visiting museums, exploring new destinations worldwide, and uncovering the beauty of diverse cultures.
In Rosa’s words… “I truly love my job because it’s constantly and incredibly inspiring. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn, collaborate, meet, connect and get to know other people and share our stories and cultures.”
rosa@italiandreamacademy.com