Charli – Universita Commerciale Luigi Bocconi – Italy
Semester 2, 2024 – Semester 1, 2025
Bachelor of Business – International
When looking back on my exchange, there are many things that come to mind that bring me great happiness, some hardships, and a lot of nostalgia. Moving across the world, alone, to a foreign speaking country for a year, was a huge awakening; but the best thing I have ever done!
Living abroad for nearly a year also meant embracing a whole new way of life. I learned enough Italian to get by in markets, order my morning cappuccino like a local, and chat with neighbours in my apartment building. I got used to the slower pace of certain things, like lingering over dinner for hours, and the fast pace of others, like crossing a Milanese Street without hesitating. There were definitely challenges too like homesickness, figuring out Italian bureaucracy (permesso di soggiorno), and finding my way in a completely different academic system.
Bocconi University in Milan, Italy, is known across Europe as a high-performance business and economic university, and it was very clear to see why. It was certainly a different experience to be undertaking 5 subjects instead of 4 in order to make the ECT to credit conversion, and in my first semester I also undertook 2 extensive Italian courses. Although it was a little overwhelming, it was how I made a lot of my closest friends!
Outside of uni, Milan became my playground. During the week, I’d be diving into case studies and market analysis; on weekends, I’d be hopping on trains to explore Italy. Over time and with much practice, I managed to learn how to navigate a whole new culture and made friends from all over the world.
One of the most unexpected and rewarding parts of my time in Milan was the friendships I made. Being surrounded by students from all over the world meant every day brought a new perspective, a new story, or even a new tradition to learn about. We bonded over late-night study sessions, shared meals in tiny local restaurants, and exploring the city together on weekends. These friendships weren’t just about having fun — they became my support system, my family away from home. We celebrated each other’s cultures, navigated challenges together, and created memories that I know will last a lifetime. Having friends from so many different countries also gave me a glimpse into how diverse and connected the world really is, something that’s priceless for anyone planning a career in international business.
Looking back, the exchange wasn’t just about ticking off travel destinations or getting credits for my degree. It taught me how to be independent, adapt quickly, and feel comfortable in completely new situations. It gave me a bigger picture of the world, something I know will be invaluable as I head into a career in international business.
Find out more on how you can apply: Student Exchange
