Reflecting on my first 15 days in Milan, it’s hard to believe how much had already shifted in my mindset, comfort level, and appreciation for a different way of life. The beginning of this semester exchange felt like a whirlwind of orientation/welcome events, new faces, and cultural discovery in Italy—all while still adjusting to the rhythm of my life for the next four months in a new city.
Those early days were spent mostly in Milan, aside from a four-day but unforgettable trip initial trip to Florence. That early visit gave me my first taste of Italy’s rich historical beauty beyond the city I now call home. Florence was a shock to me and a dream in one, and it opened my mind to the sleepless nights and endless possibilities I would experience over my trips throughout the course of this exchange. Back in Milan, I focused on settling into daily life — navigating all forms of public transportation, exploring cafes and restaurants, and also taking an intensive Italian crash course that helped ease my nerves about ordering meals or asking simple questions. At first, hearing Italian being spoken everywhere I went and to me was intimidating, but I quickly grew to appreciate the authenticity and pride that Italians have in their language and culture.
Meeting my roommates, other exchange students at welcome events, and getting to know my TAMU peers that came abroad with me more closely helped me feel more grounded. We were all experiencing similar emotions — excitement mixed with uncertainty — and it created a strong sense of camaraderie in the relationships I built early on. Every new introduction reminded me of the unique opportunity I have to build friendships with people from all over the world.
Compared to the fast-paced and convenience-driven culture of the U.S., Italian life felt slower and intentional. Meals are unhurried and social. People walk more. Things don’t run on tight, back-to-back schedules — and that’s actually refreshing. It encouraged me to slow down, be more present, and immerse myself fully in my surroundings.
With my Italian course wrapping up and being at just the very start of my semester classes at Bocconi, I remember feeling very eager and excited for what awaited me through the semester. By this point, I have just scratched the surface, but I already could see how this experience will broaden my worldview academically, professionally, and personally.
