u/External_Fig_6198

Ciao! I'm an Australian student and I am planning on an exchange to Milan. I'm deciding between UCSC Milan (Università Cattolica) and Bocconi. I study International Relations and Politics, can anyone with firsthand experience help me out?

I don't speak Italian (but I have intermediate French if this helps?), I would be taking all electives so would love to take some interesting courses like fashion (I sew a lot), Italian culture and language.

Some questions I have:

1. What are the key differences in culture and atmosphere between the two universities? I've heard Bocconi has a competitive atmosphere, is that accurate?
2. How is UCSC's campus situation in practice? I know it's split across the city, does that make daily life complicated, or do you get used to it quickly?
3. What's the social scene like at each? Is it easy to make friends as an international student who doesn't speak Italian? Are there strong student communities, clubs, or events?
4. How do locals and Italian students generally receive international students?
5. What are the realistic accommodation options for internationals at each uni? On-campus vs off-campus, what do students actually do?
6. Which areas of the city are popular for students, and what should I be aware of when renting?
7. What does a realistic monthly budget look like beyond rent (food, transport, going out)?
8. How much does not speaking Italian affect daily life and study? Are most courses offered in English?
9. Any advice on actually experiencing Milan's fashion scene as a student. events, markets, industry connections?

I'd love to hear from anyone who has studied at either, or who made a similar decision. Even general Milan student life advice is hugely appreciated. Grazie!

Bonjour d'Australie!

I am thinking of doing a University Exchange to Jean Moulin Lyon 3 in January. I can understand French to a pretty decent level but my speaking is a bit behind. I would greatly appreciate if anyone can provide information about student life in Lyon.

1. I am considering doing the SELF program, and was wondering if anyone can recommend it? I am curious about the structure of the program, do they provide much guidance for international students, particularly when first getting settled in? Is it intense/huge workload? What is uni life like in general, is it sociable?2. I am really hoping to improve my french language skills, can anyone recommend good ways to do this inside or outside of uni, immersion programs, clubs etc.
2. Where would be nice, safe and convenient areas to stay in? Has anyone stayed in CROUS, shared student housing or private student accommodation and can give advice?
3. How much should I expect to spend over the semester (Jan-May) - Does anyone have an estimate monthly/weekly spend for international students or any advice on cheaper options for living, meals etc. ?
4. Any general advice? The other options I am considering are Université Grenoble Alpes, Science Po Paris/Grenoble, University Sorbonne Nouvelle Paris 3, if anyone has experiences with these.

Any info would be extremely helpful and greatly appreciated, Merci!

Bonjour d'Australie!

I am thinking of doing a University Exchange to Jean Moulin Lyon 3 in January. I can understand French to a pretty decent level but my speaking is a bit behind. I would greatly appreciate if anyone can provide information about student life in Lyon.

1. I am considering doing the SELF program, and was wondering if anyone can recommend it? I am curious about the structure of the program, do they provide much guidance for international students, particularly when first getting settled in? Is it intense/huge workload? What is uni life like in general, is it sociable?2. I am really hoping to improve my french language skills, can anyone recommend good ways to do this inside or outside of uni, immersion programs, clubs etc.

2. Where would be nice, safe and convenient areas to stay in? Has anyone stayed in CROUS, shared student housing or private student accommodation and can give advice?

3. Any general advice? My other options are Université Grenoble Alpes, Science Po Paris/Grenoble, University Sorbonne Nouvelle Paris 3, if anyone has experiences with these.

Any info would be extremely helpful and greatly appreciated, Merci!