Before Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine (KSUCPM) 4th year, Jaquan Harley became one of 71 DPMs to graduate the program on May 16th, we got the chance to catch up on one unforgettable chapter of his journey through podiatric medical school: a clerkship adventure in Arezzo, Italy.
Harley completed a clinical rotation at San Donato Hospital, where he gained hands-on experience, sharpened his clinical perspective, and discovered that learning medicine abroad comes with a side of espresso, gelato, and plenty of adventure.
“My time in Italy was a transformative experience both professionally and personally,” Harley says of his month abroad. Harley’s journey began in a rural part of Italy, where he quickly encountered the language barrier — and learned that mastering public transportation might take just as much skill as mastering anatomy.
Fortunately, the team at San Donato Hospital made sure he felt right at home.
“The doctors and staff I met at San Donato Hospital ensured my experience there wasn't hindered by my language barrier,” Harley said. “We often used Google Translate to communicate or used a combination of English and Italian.”
Instead of stressing over what he didn’t know, Harley leaned into the experience,
“I became accustomed to not knowing much but took it as an opportunity to learn not only some Italian but how to navigate my way around Italy,” he said.
His daily schedule quickly became the kind of routine many would envy: wake up around 10 a.m., grab a croissant and espresso from a local pastry shop, then enjoy a 25-minute walk through the city on the way to the hospital.
At the hospital’s diabetology center, Harley shadowed physicians and nurses caring for patients with diabetic foot ulcers, corns, calluses, and amputations. It was meaningful clinical exposure that gave him a broader understanding of podiatric medicine and patient care.
After clinic hours, the learning continued—just with more carbs. Harley would stop at the grocery store, wander the city streets, and wait for dinner, which he noted typically starts around 8 p.m. in Italy. Clearly, Italy understands priorities.
Weekends were reserved for exploring some of the country’s most iconic destinations, including Milan, Lake Como, Florence, and Rome.
And then there was the food.
“The food and wine in Italy was amazing,” Harley said.
Among his favorite spots were La Pieve and Antica Osteria l'Agania, where standout dishes included spaghetti alla carbonara, cacio e pepe, braised beef cheek with polenta, and pizza diavola. Add in regular servings of gelato and endless croissant variations, and it’s safe to say the cultural immersion was complete.
Now, with graduation just ahead, Harley leaves Kent State with more than a degree on the horizon. He carries unforgettable memories, a global perspective on healthcare, and perhaps a lifelong appreciation for Italian breakfast pastries.
Not a bad way to prepare for the next chapter as a podiatric physician.