Erasmus Experience in Milano, Italy by Laura

Why did you choose to go to Milano, Italy?

I've choosen Milan because I like italian culture and Milan seemed to me the best solution because it's the closest to Poland.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I've been studying on erasmus programme about 1 year and I've received 700euro per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Milano?

Most of the students party a lot - I haven't had to many opportuinties to do this  because I've worked and I had to write my thesis.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Milano to other students?

The University is very modern, well-equiped but I didn't like most of the classes - we had to read lots of books which are not up-to-date and teachers are not very kind towards erasmus students.

What is the food like?

The food is fantastic - the best ever!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Milano?

Yes, I payed about 300eu per month and I lived with a room-mate. It was an ugly apartment.

How much does it cost to live in Milano?

A lot, I used to spend 800eu per month, now, with my own apartment it's like 900-1000eu per month.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available in the University?

Yes, there are language courses but only for begginers and medium level - there is nothing for advanced level. I think it's quite easy to learn the language if you're alone and not attached to english-speaking students, but to italian ones.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Milano from your city?

Economy class flights (wizzair, ryanair).

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Milano?

I don't know many places, I focused only on salsa parties and I like a lot ZOO Latino.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Milano?

Every ITALIAN restaurant.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Milan has got Castello Sforzesco and the center of the city with Duomo for example, but you can travel easily to other places like Verona (awesome!), Como, Sirmione, Lago di Garda, Firenze etc. Trains don't cost a lot if it's near (not more than 300km).

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Milano?

Well, don't come here if you want to find some work after your studies - it's really hard even though you're perfect in italian, english, you've got your university degree. It doesn't count, there is a big crisis in here. If you come only to do some eramus life I would advice you to go somewhere else (south part of Italy) so that you can really enjoy your adventure - Milan is a sad and a fast city.