Erasmus Experience in Milano, Italy by Jessica

Why did you choose to go to Milan, Italy?

Shopping, party scene, culture, improving my Italian.

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

My Erasmus scholarship is 375 euros a month for 9 months.

What is the student lifestyle like in Milan?

I love the lifestyle here - many people work quite hard, but everyone parties hard too. On the other hand, if partying isn't for you, there are many cultural places and events to go to. Every week I go out for aperitivo at least twice!

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

I would definitely recommend it - the university has a really good atmosphere, a good reputation and excellent teaching staff. As far as the city goes, it depends on what type of person you are - I enjoy being in a big city but it's a bit harder to meet people and you have to be the sort of person who can make an effort to go out and do things. One of the best things is the fact that hardly anyone goes away at weekends, which can be a problem in other Italian cities (especially small ones).

What is the food like?

Aperitivo food is usually good, pasticcerie and pizzerie are excellent, as are more expensive restaurants - although as students we don't eat in those very often. So generally I would say very good - although people from the South of Italy would disagree...

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Milan?

It was fairly easy, I contacted a few people on the website easystanza (there is also bacheca, or many facebook groups you can use), the only thing that cost was that I decided to come out to look at the apartments before I arrived to check that they weren't scams! And then picked my favourite. You can easily leave that until you actually arrive though, if you're okay with staying in a hostel for a couple of weeks.

How much does it cost to live in Milan?

Life in Milano is very expensive - fortunately as a student you can get a discount on many things eg. travel cards, nights out, some restaurants - make the most of these or it will end up being very very costly to you...

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

I studied the language before I came out here so I didn't find it too difficult, I recommend taking a quick course before you come out here as most Italians don't really speak English and so it's useful to be able to order food, get around shops etc. There are really good language courses laid on by the university though, so if you don't have time/money to study beforehand you can leave it until you get here. With such a big Erasmus population, you can get away with only English...but shopkeepers and waiters will think that you are rude if you don't even try to speak the language, so beware!

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

Flying - flights to Milano aren't too expensive. There are 3 airports and all of them have really easy + cheap routes to the city centre via bus or train.

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

As an Erasmus student, it's a good idea to go where there are discounts for Erasmus as it's much cheaper! And often you get drinks included which is great. And don't worry, there is always a good mixture of both international and Italian students!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Duomo and Galleria di Vittorio Emanule are a must, there are loads of great museums and galleries - I like Museo del Novecento and you can get in for free if you are under 25.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Milan in the future?

Milano is incredible and you will have an amazing time! Make the most of every opportunity and don't let it intimidate you - if you get involved with as much as you can it will be great. Enjoy learning the language and experiencing everything the city has to offer. It can be hard to meet people at first, but just remember that everyone loves international students and use this to your full advantage.