Student spotlight: Cambria in Milan

Right after graduating high school, Cambria decided to step out of her comfort zone and take a gap experience abroad. 

With a passion for travel and languages, she chose Milan as her destination, drawn not only by curiosity, but also by a personal connection to the city. And during her time in Italy, she embraced every single aspect of the experience, from learning Italian to building friendships with people from all over the world.

Hi Cambria! Why did you decide to take a gap experience now, and why Italy?

I just graduated high school, and I love traveling and experiencing new cultures. The very summer before coming to Italy, I spent some time doing service work in Asia: that made me realize how much I enjoy being in new environments and meeting new people. I really think that such an experience gives you the chance to figure things out and learn something new. And that is something I love!

I chose Italy because I had studied some French before, but I didn’t feel drawn to life in France. Italy felt like a good alternative. Also, I had a friend from Milan who had been an exchange student in the US. She’s the reason I chose this city.

Was this your first time in Italy? Did you get to travel around the country?

Yes, it was my first time in the country. I actually came with my parents for a few days at the beginning, but when they left I stayed on my own. It took a little time to adjust but I got the hang of it pretty quickly.

I also had the chance to travel around Italy quite a bit. I visited Florence, Siena, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast. All in one week. It was originally supposed to be just a trip to Amalfi, but traveling here is so easy that we added more stops. It was very spontaneous and fun!

Did anything surprise you about living in Italy?

Honestly? I came in with a very open mindset, so nothing really shocked me. I didn’t have many expectations, I just wanted to experience whatever came.

Maybe the only thing I did think about beforehand was clothing. I asked people what I should wear in Italy, and someone told me to just wear what makes me feel good. At first, I didn’t love that answer, but it turned out to be true. I do think I’ve adapted a bit stylistically, but I stayed true to my own style.

What do you love most about your life in Milan? And what do you miss from home?

I love everything here. I’m always meeting new people (international students and locals) and I love trying to speak Italian whenever I can. I also love being able to walk everywhere and travel so easily. As for what I miss about home, I don’t miss too much. Maybe fall, Halloween, my dog, and of course my family and friends. That said, I’ve made so many friends here that I’m always busy and having fun!

What have you learned about yourself during this experience?

I think I’ve rediscovered how social I am. When I was younger, I was very talkative, but I became more reserved over time. Being here really brought the part of me back. I’ve realized just how much I love talking to people, learning about them, and making new friends. That’s been one of the most meaningful parts of the experience for me.

Do you think this experience will influence your future plans?

Definitely! I want to do something related to languages and working with people. This experience also made me more open to the idea of living in Europe long-term.

After this, I’ll go home for a few months and then move to Quebec, Canada to study French. Eventually, I’d like to work with the UN, helping refugees relocate and find support. I also hope to learn more languages and have another experience like this again.

Was there a moment when you realized you made the right decision to come here?

Yes, there were a couple of moments.

One was my first weekend alone, right after my parents left. I didn’t know anyone yet, but I decided to join an event I found online. I ended up meeting great people and making friends right away. That made me realize I really could do this.

Another moment has been being able to support others who are going through that very same adjustment. It feels very meaningful to be there for people struggling with the move and share the experience!

What advice would you give to someone considering a gap experience abroad?

Do it. If you have the opportunity, just go for it. You won’t regret it.

Even if it can feel challenging at times, you’ll learn so much about yourself and the world. You’ll meet incredible people and gain experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Don’t just sit on the fence: take the jump.