Italy – Harshit

Student: Harshit
Course: Bachelor of Business Analytics
Program: Short-term exchange 2025
International student grant recipient

Harshit is an international student from India.

Describe the city you were living in: the landscape, the culture, the weather etc.

The city I lived in was vibrant and full of character, with a mix of modern and historical architecture, beautiful natural landscapes, and a lively cultural scene. The weather was quite different from Australia often cooler and more unpredictable but it added to the charm of experiencing the seasons in a new way. One of the biggest differences I noticed was the local lifestyle and pace; people seemed to take more time to enjoy their daily routines, and public transport and community life were much more central than in Australia.

Describe a normal day in your life overseas: your university, your work placement or your study tour?

A normal day for me usually involved attending university lectures or work placements, grabbing coffee with classmates, and spending the afternoon studying or exploring the city.

How did you spend your weekends?

On weekends, I loved visiting local markets, museums, or nearby towns, and sometimes joining other international students for small trips or cultural events. One of my most memorable experiences was traveling to a nearby region and discovering stunning landscapes and historic sites that made me appreciate the country even more.

What's the best/most memorable thing you ate?

The food was incredible my favourite dish was a traditional local specialty that I still crave today!

How did you make friends and what sort of things did you do together?

I made friends mostly through university activities and social events for international students, and we often explored new places together, shared meals, and supported each other through the ups and downs of living abroad.

How did you decide which study abroad opportunity to do?

I decided which study abroad opportunity to pursue by considering programs that aligned with my academic goals, personal interests, and the chance to experience a new culture. I wanted a destination that would not only complement my studies but also push me to grow independently.

Was there some aspect of your trip that was different to your expectations?

Once abroad, I realized that some aspects of the trip were quite different from what I expected particularly the teaching style and pace of life, which required more adaptability than I had anticipated.

What was something that challenged you?

One of my biggest challenges was adjusting to a new academic system while managing cultural differences, but it ultimately helped me become more flexible and confident.

What's your one piece of advice for a student who is preparing to study abroad? How should they prepare?

For students preparing to study abroad, my advice is to plan carefully, research your destination thoroughly, and keep an open mind preparation makes the transition smoother, but being adaptable is just as important.

What is the one big thing you will always remember from your experience? Or one big lesson that you learnt?

The most memorable part of my experience was the friendships I built and the sense of independence I gained from navigating life in a new country.

How did you finance your trip? How much did your trip cost?

I financed my trip through a combination of personal savings, family support, and a grant, which helped cover major expenses such as tuition, accommodation, and travel costs.

How will your trip add value to your studies ie. Did you gain credit? Was it to increase your employability?

Overall, the experience has added great value to my studies by expanding my global perspective, improving my communication skills, and enhancing my employability through international exposure and cultural understanding.

What motivated you to travel further as an international student?

I was motivated to travel further as an international student because I wanted to experience new cultures, gain global perspectives, and challenge myself in a different environment. Studying abroad offered the chance to grow both academically and personally while meeting people from diverse backgrounds.

What is a piece of advice or tip you would give an international student who is thinking about studying abroad?

My advice to anyone considering studying overseas is to stay open-minded, plan ahead, and make the most of every opportunity from connecting with others to exploring new experiences.

How did receiving a grant help support your overseas program?

Receiving a grant was incredibly helpful in supporting my program, as it eased financial stress and allowed me to focus on learning and fully engaging in the cultural and academic opportunities available.

Learn more about studying at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore