Post by Elena Aversa

Two weeks ago, I was honoured to return to the Sibillini Europa Summer School in Amandola, an experience that has significantly influenced my academic and personal growth. Initially, in summer 2024, I attended the Summer School as a curious student eager to learn about Europe. This year, I returned in a different role: not as a participant but as a guest speaker. Alongside my colleague Andrea Borraccetti, I had the opportunity to engage in a debate with Antonio Carlucci, author of "Il sogno di Morelli". The book tells the story of a man who personally undergoes the deep transformations shaping Europe into its current state, offering a perspective quite different from the typical academic approach. What started as a planned discussion quickly evolved into an energetic exchange of ideas, fueled by the students’ enthusiasm and moderated by Ilaria Potenza, whose talent for fostering authenticity and spontaneity allowed the dialogue to thrive. The day was both intellectually stimulating and highly rewarding. Listening to Antonio Carlucci reminded me that some lessons surpass what any academic manual can teach. Working with Andrea reaffirmed the importance of collaboration, while engaging with students strengthened my belief in curiosity and the duty to nurture what Carlucci calls the “dream”: a vision of Europe shared not only by the younger generation but by all of us. I am deeply grateful to the Sibillini Europa Summer School, and especially to Daniele Calisti and Pierpaolo Settembri for their passion in making Amandola not just the School’s location but a true home for all who believe in Europe.