Walking in the hallways sophomore Marina Palazzolo talks like any other student, smiles, laughs and attends classes as usual. With a fleeting glance she seems normal, but across the pond in a little town somewhere in Italy, she represents an entirely different culture.

“I feel very connected to my culture” Marina said. “I love my culture. everything about it.”

Marina was born in Terrasini, a town on the island of Sicily Italy. She spent one year there before her parents decided that America had more opportunities for their new family. Her journey across the world eventually led her to Michigan, where she of many Italians, reside. Although she now lives in the U.S., there is still a part of her that misses home.

“I have been back home to Sicily four times since being born” Marina said, “and I love it more and more each time I go.”

On March 4. she received a call from the President of the Club Terrasini committee. She received the title “Queen of Terrasini.” Her job is to represent her Italian town here in America.

“I was very honored to be chosen” Marina said. “Its a great opportunity for me to learn about my culture from the people that know it best.”

There are many different “Queens” all of them represent different cities, towns and provinces in Italy. They come together to do activities, such as the Columbus day parade, Christmas dinner and monthly meetings. On March 29. she will be attending her first activity and is unsure what to expect.

“I’m looking forward to the events and getting to know the other queens,” Marina said. “I’ll get to know how true Italians do things.”