Fabulous Design Capital Experience Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I had an overall, amazing experience. The staff was extremely helpful, I loved my classes and the people I lived with. I learned a lot in class and just being in Milan and experiencing the Italian culture. I got to attend Fashion Week, which was a major highlight. The instructors were always willing to assist and answer any questions I had. The SAI Rep. at NABA, Claudia, is the coolest and most helpful person. She is somehow always available if there are any problems, issues, or general questions whatsoever, she's amazing.

On-site administration of your program

That would be Claudia, again, she is great. She was always so organized on our excursions and there were luckily no serious emergencies.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed in an apartment with other SAI students from the States. We got along and our view was pretty nice too. We could see the mountains sometimes in the morning when the sun was rising. It was nice to live in an apartment where other locals lived as well.

Everyone knows Italian cuisine is among the best. Pizza, pasta, wine, gelato; it was endless. There were a couple grocery stores really close to our apartment, which was convenient.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt pretty good about walking among the streets. There are always those times when there is a slight language barrier or some small confusion. But, all in all, I was never THAT nervous about being integrated in the local culture.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Like I said, Claudia was ALWAYS available. There were a couple times when my roommates had to go to Urgent Care because of a severe stomach ache or a sinus infection. All they did was call or text Claudia and they made arrangement straight away. Because of the health insurance SAI provides, they were able to get the medicine they needed.

I never had any problem with safety. A couple of the other SAI students were pick-pocketed, which is always a risk. Just being aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in a city like Milan. I am much more aware of my surroundings after studying abroad.

I gave my overall experience a 9 because nothing is ever perfect. There will be times when you get lost at midnight in Pisa and have to find your hostel when your phone is dead. Using the independence and self-reliant skills you learn while abroad come in handy more than you think they would.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

I budgeted smartly. I knew I wanted to travel, so I did not purchase hardly any souvenirs other than postcards and a couple clothing items and gifts. Food was reasonable at the grocery store, I did not eat out a lot in order to accommodate my budget.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

They encouraged us to use basic Italian, just because it's easier to communicate that way. I took an Intro. to Italian course, which was really fun. I still use the DuoLingo app when I remember. Having the Google Translate app was really helpful too.

Select all that apply

• Apartment

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• Local Students
• Americans

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• Americans
• International Students

• The people I met, roommates and teachers and locals
• The city I was in
• The opportunities presented, like Fashion Week

• Another representative, so Claudia doesn't get too overwhelmed
• N/A
• N/A