Finance Major
Study Abroad: Milan, Italy
Do you have a favorite class that you are taking? Why?
Institutions and Global Strategies at Bocconi. Taking a class about international relations and cultural differences is an even better experience while in a foreign country. Students from my class come from all over the world, so our discussions have always been very interesting and fruitful. I am learning how to locate and interact with cultural and institutional differences, and how a business might go about adapting their model to fit another countries “rules of the game”.
What do you like about your program/university?
It is a change of scenery, a large city in Italy compared to a campus in NorCal. It is also nice to have a mix of more American teaching styles at IES and an Italian approach to my classes at Bocconi.
What has been your favorite place that you visited so far or favorite part about your city? Why?
A few weeks in a bunch of us traveled to Sicily for the weekend. It was absolutely beautiful - we hiked the volcano, spent plenty of time on the beach, explored ancient ruins, and the food was of course incredible.
What advice would you give to the 2024 abroad students?
Work on your visa application as soon as the materials and guide come out. Also, make sure you go to your country with an open mind; it is an adjustment to go to a foreign country to actually live and not just to travel, especially one that speaks a different language. Open your mind, say yes to things, and try to take time in your day to slow things down and appreciate where you are and how your hard work has lead you there.