Justin Tirone is a sophomore at the University of Louisville, working toward a double-major in Finance and History as well as an undeclared double-minor in International Business and Russian Studies.

Justin’s interest in the German language began during a trip he took to Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Italy through his high school. While he was there, he fell in love with the German language and culture and decided to continue his studies. He is now in his fourth semester of German.

"I feel that the absolute best way to learn the German language is to be immersed in the culture, and the Sister Cities Exchange Program allows me such an opportunity," said Justin. "To have the ability to study at the Johannes Gutenberg Universität-Mainz in a beautiful region of Germany is a rare opportunity. I am very grateful to the Sister Cities organization for this chance for such personal growth."

Justin will be travelling to Mainz in the fall to complete a year of study in Mainz.