Discover Milan
Milan is known for being Italy’s economic and industrial hub. Perhaps Italy’s most cosmopolitan city, Milan is perfect for those students who are looking for a fast-paced modern European vibe mixed with typical Italian style and charm. In 2015, Milan has become a center of global attention because of Expo Milan, an exhibition of 140 countries showcasing technology, food and culture.
As the fashion capital of the world, Milan is home to many luxury fashion brands such as Dolce and Gabbana, Gucci, Pucci, Armani, and Prada.
Milan’s cathedral, or Il Duomo di Milano, is the 4th largest cathedral in the world and took over 400 years to complete.
Don’t miss these Discovery Compass activities in Milan!
Intercultural
Intercultural experiences highlight exposure with the local culture, promoting a multilateral exchange of ideas, language and opinions.
Explore Expo Milano. This international exhibition is currently taking place in and around Milan offers innumerable opportunities to taste foods from other countries, meet visitors from across the globe, and learn about international cooperation.
Spend a day shopping one of the many famous open-air markets throughout the city. One of the oldest, located near the Cattolica, is the Fiera di Senigallia. Here students can find items more gadgets and jewelry and barter for the best price.
Historical
ISA excursions and cultural activities highlight historical parts of the local culture to help students better understand their new environment.
See a show at the Teatro alla Scala opera house. This venue is not only breathtaking in beauty and size; it’s also where composer Giuseppe Verdi debuted his first opera, Oberto, conte di San Bonifacio, in November of 1839.
Visit Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci’s “Last Supper,” one of the Renaissance artist’s most famous paintings.
Sociopolitical
Sociopolitical discovery highlights social and political activities or experiences.
Experience the Italian love of soccer and the accompany rivalries by taking in a game between A.C. Milan and Inter Milan. As one of the few European cities to host two prestigious teams, Milan plays host to a vicious rivalry that highlights differences in the two fan bases, particularly socioeconomically.
Professional
Professional experiences provide exposure to professional development opportunities during an ISA program.
Intern with prestigious small businesses in Milan Many of the internship positions will involve the fields of marketing, management, business, fashion, and retail, allowing an even deeper engagement with Milan’s fast-paced international business culture.
Take in one of the city’s famous Fashion Shows. Milan is a fashion mecca and hosts Spring and Fall Fashion weeks which take place mid-February and Mid-September.
Environmental
Environmental experiences expose students to different environmental aspects of the host country.
While visiting Expo Milan 2015, note the technology on display from various countries. These pieces are part of the “Feeding the Plant, Energy for Life” theme, as each country has put forth ideas on how technology can be used not only to preserve the planet but also to best utilize resources to feed the growing population.
Visit Florence and the Chianti region. This area of Italy is famous for rich and flavorful olive oil, found in kitchens across the globe. It’s also a great place to see the rolling green hills of Tuscan and enjoy a wine tasting.
There’s so much going on in Milan, that you’ve got to visit to get the full experience, but to learn more, check out the ISA Milan Culture Corner.
The 2015 City Discovery Series aims to showcase one of ISA’s program locations each week. Facts about each location and Discovery Compass activity examples are given, highlighting the areas of Intercultural, Historical, Sociopolitical, Professional and Environmental discovery. The Discovery Compass aims to help students have the best possible study abroad experience by helping them to gain a better understanding of the local environment, customs and people through a variety of experiences.
