You had a great time. Now join the community of Alumni!
Our Ambassadors Program
Our Ambassadors program offers a chance for alumni to remain engaged in the international education network. By joining this program, alumni can contribute to the learning journey of future students who are interested in studying abroad at the Borromini Institute (TBI) in Rome.
The program offers various levels of involvement, including:
- connecting with prospective students via email or social media,
- delivering presentations during orientations or study abroad fairs,
- participating in promotional campaigns for upcoming events, and TBI progams.
The purpose of the Ambassadors program is to enable alumni to share their valuable experiences with students who have a keen interest in international education.
My time in Rome this past summer was eye opening, inspiring and enriching. Every day I learned something new about food, sustainability, media and culture. I learned a lot about myself and the different ways that I take on challenges in the classroom and out in the streets of a busy city. I would recommend this study abroad trip to anyone, no matter what your major is you will find something extremely fascinating about this experience that I would do all over again if I could.
Meet the Borromini Institute Team
Tom Rankin
Borromini Institute DirectorTom Rankin completed his Master’s degree in Architecture at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design. Prior to that, he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Princeton University and a “Laurea” in Architecture from “Sapienza” University of Rome. Since 1991, he has been residing in Rome, where he is actively involved in design research, practice, and teaching. His focus lies in studying the historical and emerging aspects of the city and landscape as a foundation for sustainable urbanism and architecture.
Tom holds teaching positions at various institutions, including Università di Roma “La Sapienza” (School of Engineering), the California Polytechnic Rome Program in Architecture, and the Iowa State Rome Program.
Pier Alberto Merli
Founder and CEOPier Alberto Merli received his degree in Philosophy from Florence University and his Ph.D. in Economics and Social Sciences at Florence University. He is Resident Director for HWS and U of I in Rome. He is also a wine expert and sommelier.
Yesenia Achlim
Program Outreach CoordinatorYesenia Achlim came to Rome to earn her Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from John Cabot University. As the Program Outreach Coordinator at The Borromini Institute, she enjoys sharing her passion for education, studying abroad, and cross-cultural experiences with our students.
Lulu’ Yuan
Visual ConsultantLulu Yuan has a Master’s degree in fashion design and marketing in Italy and China and has been working as a fashion designer for more than 15 years. She is a teacher of art anatomy, an illustrator and a photographer. And, of course, a food lover. She can often be found capturing images and video of our activities for our social media.