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At StudyAbroad.com, we are dedicated to facilitating students’ journeys as they venture beyond familiar surroundings and delve into global experiences. In the summer of 2024, Allison embarked on her inaugural journey abroad to Italy, where she studied at the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Milan. Her adventure blended academic pursuits with weekend explorations of charming locations such as Portofino and Bellagio, leading to a profoundly transformative experience. Below, Allison shares her insights on how this opportunity enabled her to make her aspirations a reality.
During the summer of 2024, I engaged in an unforgettable experience as I studied in Milan, Italy. Immersed in the local culture, I savored the diverse cuisine, navigated the language, and embraced unique customs. This experience presented me with an entirely different way of life.
I chose to study abroad to challenge myself and see the world from a new perspective. Although eager, I felt a sense of apprehension. I participated in a third-party program that organized my housing and educational plans, which eased some of my worries. Since it was my first time leaving the country, traveling alone represented a significant hurdle. I was determined to try and avoid any regrets, which motivated me to seize this opportunity. Opting for a summer program felt more manageable compared to a full academic semester.
After considerable deliberation, I settled on Italy for its stunning architecture and rich culture. Milan was particularly appealing because it offered a course relevant to my major, simplifying my decision.
As the departure date approached, feelings of anxiety surfaced as I prepared for the trip. Many logistical details required attention, such as setting up phone service, arranging airport transport, and packing my belongings. Despite the uncertainty of what lay ahead, I was energized by the thought of achieving my dream and was intent on making the most of my time abroad.
I attended classes at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, conveniently located in Milan’s lively center. My coursework focused on media industries, particularly Italian media, including television and advertising. I was part of an English-speaking class alongside fellow exchange students, while local Italians attended courses taught in their native language.
The structure of my class incorporated lectures and group presentations. A highlight of our program was a tour of the Milan headquarters of Sky Productions, where I learned about the development and production of various original content for Sky’s extensive audience.
I resided about thirty minutes from campus in shared housing with three other English-speaking roommates. Our accommodation met basic needs and was situated conveniently close to a grocery store and park.
Adjustment to the new surroundings took time, but I gradually adapted. I relied on public transportation, primarily utilizing an app called CityMapper for navigation. The transit system included trams, buses, and the metro. I also had to familiarize myself with the Euro and adapt to the Italian lifestyle. While everything felt foreign initially, I began to embrace my new reality and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Throughout my stay, I met remarkable individuals, including my professor and my travel companions. On weekends, we explored destinations like Portofino and Bellagio, each offering unique charm. Portofino dazzled with its vibrant architecture and seaside restaurants, while Bellagio captivated with its historic buildings and cobblestone streets. One highlight of my experience was visiting the breathtaking Duomo, an impressive cathedral linked to the Galleria, a gallery with upscale shops and dining options. I also indulged in Italy’s delightful culinary offerings, with pizza, gelato, and pasta topping my list.
Realizing my dream of studying abroad illustrated that I can achieve anything I aspire to. I gained invaluable insights into a new culture while earning academic credits. Ultimately, my decision to study abroad proved advantageous, fueling my happiness and momentum. I encourage other students to embrace opportunities to study overseas, as these experiences can be profoundly illuminating.
Allison’s story underscores the essence of studying abroad—it’s a journey of academic achievement intertwined with personal growth, new friendships, and the development of independence in unfamiliar settings. Whether it marks your first venture into international travel or is another chapter in your adventures, we are here to support you throughout the process. If you are ready to embark on this transformative journey, we stand ready to assist you in making your aspirations a reality!
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