My Exchange at Bocconi University
Embarking on the 360 International exchange program was driven by a want for academic growth, and the dream of experiencing the Italian lifestyle, famously known as “la dolce vita.” From the moment I started at Auckland University, participating in an exchange program was always a goal of mine. I found that Bocconi University in Milan was the perfect fit, given its strong reputation and the city’s status as the fashion capital of the world — ideal for someone aspiring to work in the fashion industry post-graduation.
Upon arriving in Milan, I really enjoyed the layout of the city, as it was so accessible and easy to navigate! I also loved the architecture and the contrast between old and new.
I lived in the Navigli area with another exchange student from Dunedin. Getting student housing at Bocconi is very challenging due to limited availability but I couldn’t have been happier with how things turned out! I was very good friends with my flatmates and I personally prefer flatting then living in a hall environment. The cost of rent is expensive but everything else such as groceries, eating out and activities was cheaper so I found it only slightly more expensive than Auckland in the end.
Attending Bocconi, one of Europe’s top business schools, making the most out of the academic opportunity was a priority for me. Lecturers frequently brought in executives from leading companies like Zegna, Redbull Italia, and even Gucci. As a marketing and design student, the practical application of marketing concepts, including presenting to Red Bull Italia, made my semester academically rewarding.
Living in Milan offered a very vibrant lifestyle, with Fashion Week being a standout moment. Witnessing the events unfold before me, including spotting Kendall and Kylie Jenner at the Prada show, was surreal. The social nature of Italians, frequent aperitivo sessions, affordable 5 euro pizzas, and the night life was so fun. I found that Italians live outside of their homes and after lectures we often went to study together or for drinks. The central location of Milan in Europe also made weekend travel so easy! I visited 8 countries when I was on exchange and went to various Italian regions as it is easily accessible, thanks to budget-friendly flights from the Milan airport.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of my exchange was the friendships. Every day was spent with a fantastic group of people from all over Europe. I even spent New Year’s in Ireland and Christmas in Italy!
Living in Italy I have to mention the food. I genuinely don’t think there was a day where I didnt eat pasta or a week I went without gelato. Tortellini in Brodo and anything pistachio-flavoured, was my favourite! I constantly crave Italian food now that I am home.
The biggest challenge for me however was navigating a new university system and adapting to 100% exams (no assignments!) for some of my subjects. Although it was tough, it was a good experience in learning how to study in this way.
To students contemplating going on an exchange, if you can go definitely go! It was definitely daunting but everything worked out in the end. Take language courses, maintain those Duolingo streaks and befriend local students too! Exchange truly was the best chapter of my life, allowing me to meet incredible people and explore Europe extensively.
A heartfelt thank you to 360 Exchange for this life-changing opportunity.
Q&A
What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?
As someone who aspires to work in the fashion industry post-graduation, going to Bocconi University in Milan meant that everything was fashion-focused. The citys status as the fashion capital of the world meant I had the opportunity to talk with representatives and have guest lecturers from Stone Island, Loro Piana and even Gucci.
Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?
In Milan you will never run out of things to do! I loved the art galleries, flea markets and the cool trendy bars. The Duomo and Galleria are obviously a must see as soon as you arrive. Lake Como is 40 minutes away by train so go as much as you can in the summer. It’s so beautiful! Oh and you also can’t miss Milan Fashion and Design week (I saw Kylie and Kendall Jenner before the Prada Show!)
What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?
1. In the first week make sure you go to all the welcome week events run by ESN. It is the best way to meet people.
2. If you miss out on Bocconi student accommodation dont worry! Everything will work out. I recommend using a Spot home or Dove Vivo as they are exchange student-friendly.
3. Say yes to everything and travel as much as you can. Also bonus tip try learn as much italian as you can before coming!
What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?
My most significant takeaway from my experience abroad was the confidence I feel I have gained and the importance of pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. It’s a rewarding feeling knowing that I accomplished living in Italy by myself and even solo travelled a few times! I made such amazing friends from all over Europe that I would have never met had I not taken the opportunity.
Do you want to share anything about travels you did outside your host city/country?
With Milan being so centrally located in Europe I was fortunate enough to travel to 8 different countries during my exchange – Croatia, Spain, England, Germany, Denmark, France, Ireland and Italy! Some of my favourite locations I travelled to would have to be Mallorca, Ibiza and the smaller beachside towns in Italy. I also loved Ireland as I spent New Years there with my friends from exchange.
Final Comments
If you are thinking of going abroad this is your sign! Exchange is truly the best experience and I couldn’t recommend it enough! Take the chance and apply. If I could I would do it all over again. If you have any further questions or if I can help in any way please reach out!
Tags: 2023, Marketing/Management, Report