Hailing from Sesto San Giovanni, Italy, Lupo Sala (’28) has quickly become a standout presence on the Drew University fencing team. Most recently, securing a victory over Stevens Institute of Technology for the épée team at the MACFA event with a 5-1 bout.
A violinist and pianist, Sala now studies music with a focus on electronic composition, blending his classical foundation with innovative creative pursuits. His dual passions for athletics and the arts shape his experience as both a student and a Ranger.
For Sala, the most memorable parts of being a Ranger come on his team’s competition weekends. Representing Drew University on the strip brings him an unmatchable sense of pride and excitement, and the shared energy with his teammates makes each meet a defining moment of his collegiate journey.
In the classroom, he’s found a favorite in music theory with Professor Weston, a course that has transformed music theory into an engaging and practical subject. Sala appreciates the humor and clarity that finally made complex concepts feel accessible.
Like many student-athletes, balancing academics and athletics has strengthened Sala’s sense of discipline. He credits fencing with helping him structure his schedule, allowing him to maintain strong grades without missing practice—a rhythm that has become essential to his success at Drew.
Sala describes himself as introverted and someone who prefers listening, especially when meeting new people. Nonetheless, fencing and music have become his preferred languages of expression, giving Sala the confidence to share who he is and the tools to better understand his own thoughts.
Sala’s journey reflects the power of passion, structure and self-expression, qualities that continue to define his impact both on and off the strip. Though his story is just beginning to unfold, his achievements to this point illustrate the true meaning behind being a Drew student-athlete.
Gillian Sampson is a graduate student in the Masters of Education program.
