Erasmus Experience in Milan, Italy by Rodrigo

Why did you choose to go to Milan, Italy?

To go to the university there (Milan Polytechnic) and because it was a big city,

which is easy to live in.

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

They paid me for 5 months and €300 a month. Actually, the majority of my financial aid came from my parents.

What is the student lifestyle like in Milan?

There's not as much atmosphere in the streets here, like there is in Spain, it's a lot more laid-back. But, being a big city, there are a lot of students and events for young people.

Would you recommend the city or the university of Milan to other students?

Yes, it has a similar environment to Spain.

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What is the food like there?

They eat a Mediterranean diet here, pizza and pasta are going to be what your diet is based on here, of course.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Milan?

Yes, it's very difficult to find. Mainly because it's expensive and in the beginning you'll be hoping to find something cheap. Then you'll realise that you can't find anything and you'll make do with what there actually is. You can expect to pay between €400 and €550 for a private room.

How much does it cost to live in Milan?

Like I said before, between €400 and €550 for a room if it's private. Food shopping is cheap, it's true that I can't make a comparison because I wasn't living alone before, but it's cheap to eat here. Going out is expensive very expensive, at least it is in the places I know of. If you handle your money right and find the right places to go, it doesn't have to be so expensive.

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Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the university?

You'll pick up the language quickly. It's very easy to make yourself understood, although it takes some time to learn how to speak it well. I would recommend sharing a flat with Italians, you'll learn a lot that way, and I would insist that you take an Italian course at the "Torchiera", they have some great teachers, who are very lovely, I love them.

Where would you recommend for a night out in Milan?

The Erasmus parties aren't anything special, they're the same as the ones in Spain. I'd recommend going to different things, like the "Leoncavallo" or the "Fabbrica del Vapore", you'll find that they put on different events and good concerts there, DJs and good music groups play there and it's not that expensive.

If you want to be with people, go to Erasmus parties and you'll find people, I'd recommend going them in the first few days. And key an eye on your purse and mobile phone in those places.

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And to eat in Milan? What are some of your favourite places?

I didn't go out to eat much, but Pizza Am is a really good place. With the time I have left here I'm going to try the pizzerias that people have recommended to me.

If no, the supermarkets have pre-prepared food and really good pasta, which you can't make as easily at home.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

It's a great place for culture, you can see all of the museums in one day. Milan really stands out for its huge amounts of cultural activities: shows, museums, events, theatre plays, concerts... Don't miss out on going to the Triennale museum, especially if you're interested in design.

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Do you have any advice for students coming to Milan in the future?

Look out for thieves (especially when you're getting on the bus), look out for scammers in the early days.

Look for Italian flatmates, don't be afraid to be with Spanish people either, but it's better to be with Italians.

Get out there and find fun things to do, they have everything here.

If you want an easy Erasmus experience, come to Italy and specifically to Milan.