Studying abroad definitely comes with challenges, but once those challenges are overcome the experience is worthwhile. Milan is such an interesting city with such beautiful historical artifacts. Even though I am well adjusted to the city now, there is so much about Milan that gave me an initial cultural shock: such as the language barrier and the way people dress (extremely fashionable). Nonetheless, living here for 3 months has me feeling like a local. I take the train every day to class and I have lunch at nearby cafes or focaccerie. Cafe Carducci has been my main spot this semester because it's right across the street from the center where we have class, and the paninis there are great. It's gotten to the point where the chef knows my name and my order by heart which is hilarious. This has motivated me to branch out and try new restaurants.

I have class every day at 9 am. Mondays and Wednesdays I'm done at 10:40 am, and I usually go to an early lunch with some of my classmates. Tuesdays and Thursdays I'm not done until 2:30 pm, and I normally treat myself to lunch when I'm done. On a good day, I explore a new part of Milan or I go shopping after class. When I'm done I take the train back home and I take a nap or do homework. My host mom normally has dinner prepared by 8:30 pm which is pretty late, but it's normal here. Oftentimes during the week some friends and I would go out to dinner together or aperitivo (which is happy hour in Italian). Aperitivo has to be the best thing ever invented because we get a buffet of food when we order a drink, and the food is always on point! I'm talking about a wide range of pasta, pizza, mini sandwiches, desserts, you name it. It's also very inexpensive. 

On the weekends I'm normally visiting a new city with my travel buddy Alanna or exploring Milan. I usually spend Sundays at home with my host family. The mom prepares lunch or we'll have lunch at their grandmother's house. Their nonna is so sweet, even though she doesn't speak a lick of English she always welcomes me with a hug and kiss on both cheeks.