Stefano Minoli, age 21 has lived in Italy for the past four years. Born in New York, NY he moved to Rowayton Connecticut at the age of three and then proceeded to move back to New York to finish High School, which he visits almost 5 times per year. When he as free time away from his job as the Marketing director for Flying Dutchman Productions, he tends to enjoy boating, reading, going to restaurants, and playing soccer. Having experienced life in both the United States and in Europe he has had many different experiences and formed many opinions. When confronted with the question about the overall opinion of Americans that Italians tend to have Stefano sighed and claimed, “I don’t tend to generalize any particular group of people. If I had to, I supposed I would classify Americans as ignorant, war hungry, and obese.” But then he added that he believes that there are many exceptions to this rule. Walking through the streets of Italy, some students feel as though the locals dislike them. Stefano believes that it is a wonderful thing for Americans to study abroad because they are able to open their horizons. However, he does say “Italians generally have a poor opinion regarding American students because of the millionth drunken rage or rant in the middle of the street at 4am.” He thinks “drinking is something that a teenager should be taught to do with moderation at a young age (wine at the table for example) so they don’t feel the necessity to abuse it every time they come in contact with it.” Growing up with a father from Torino, Italy, Stefano was able to learn this life lesson and be able to appreciate wine for what it truly is.
Emily,
ReplyDeleteIt's interesting to read your, Christine and Grace's interviews with Stefano, because you all took something different away from it.
You mention several of his hobbies, and also that his dad's from Torino. These add a lot to Stefano's "story," and perhaps explain better why he lives here now.
When you start writing about about someone, think about this over-arching story, and a creative way to capture it. Yes, he's lived here four years, and yes there's the Rowayton and NYC aspects. But what is Stefano's STORY?
Maybe it is describing how he is dressed, talks, expresses emotion, and where you met him. That would paint the picture of this global guy who has American roots.
Once you figure out a person's story, craft the beginning of your tale around that. Your current beginning is factual, but confusing and not very styled.
As I wrote to Grace and Christine, your interview seems to have been hijacked by conversations about stereotypical perceptions of Americans. Staying on track to figure out what Stefano's life is like today would have been more helpful.
By the way, what is Flying Dutchman Productions? Need to explain it quickly...