So my time in Milan has finally come to an end. The packing nightmare is over, and I can finally relax and reflect on my time abroad. Though I am sad to leave behind this beautiful city, I could not be more happy to go back home.

I came here to immerse myself in the fashion capital of the world, and although sneaking into the Cuantico showroom during fashion week with my housemate was an exciting experience, it couldn’t hold a candle to watching my tennis idol Novak Djokavic win the ATP finals live in Torino.

As with all well rounded experiences there was a degree of self reflection, and I found that by coming from a fast-paced engineering background, there were times where the easy-going nature of Milan was difficult to adapt to, and I feel as though I never really did.

More than anything, I am thankful for the time I had available to develop my creative ideas. I also value the bonds I created with my professors, and I feel that these connections are invaluable as I approach graduation.

Written by: Lauren, Fall 2023 Milan student from Olin College of Engineering