With the Fall semester at my host university coming to an end, its only natural to mull over the happenings of the past four months. I thought I would compile three things that I have loved about my first semester in Milan, in the hopes of inspiring impending study abroad students.
1. Experiencing Christmas in Milan
Seeing not just one – but two! – giant trees being erected outside the Cathedral and inside the Galleria definitely marked the arrival of great Christmas vibes in Milan. Making mulled wine with my housemates and milling around the Christmas market really enhanced the festive vibe as well. Italians appear to do Christmas the same way they do everything else – in style.
2. Meeting so many international and exchange students
Meeting, and learning, about so many nationalities and cultures has been one of the more edifying parts of my social experience in Milan. When I was fed the whole “you will make friends from all over the world” drivel before my arrival, I hardly believed it. It feels comforting to know that once the semester is over, I will truly have made connections which stretch the expanse of the Atlantic. The Erasmus Association at my host university also held a Winter Gala as a last celebration before the departure of many current exchange students. The experience was bitter-sweet and really summarised the sentiment that ‘all good things must come to an end.’
3. Gaining experience outside of my field of study
*sighs*
While this may be an incredibly boring point to bring up, I must admit that taking classes outside of my degree has been highly rewarding. I have had the chance to studying marketing, philosophy of art, and contemporary art – topics which scarcely relate to my degree but somehow round it out in a constructive way. My contemporary art class has been my absolute favourite – allowing me to expand my interest in art beyond recreational hobby! My recent trip to the Fondazione Prada cemented my love for this class, allowing me to see the installation works of Damien Hirst in the Atlas (a permanent project located at the Foundation).
Conclusions…
While not an exhaustive list, I am currently buckling under the weight of deadlines and presentations! With my first semester wrapping up (no Christmas pun intended!), and the first half of my study abroad experience completed, my reflections on my first semester are overwhelmingly positive. I can only be excited to see what the Spring semester holds in store.
