13 Feb
Studying Italian in Milan: Yoshie’s experience
Moving abroad, starting a new life and studying Italian in Milan. Changing habits, language and culture is a very intense experience, which can be difficult at times, but sharing the same unexpected events with other people is certainly the right recipe for feeling at home in Italy. Keep reading to find out how Yoshie, from Japan, faced the impact with the Italian language and how learning Italian helped her feel at home in a new country.
Chat with Yoshie
Ciao Yoshie, tell us a little bit about yourself: where are you from, how old are you and what do you do?
My name is Yoshie, I come from Tokyo, Japan. I am 28 years old, and I am a student, I attend the Standard 20 Italian course in the morning.
How long have you lived in Milan and how is Milan treating you?
I moved to Milan in September 2018 and I really like it here.
What was your level of Italian when you arrived? Did you initially have difficulties?
When I came here I didn’t know anything about the Italian language. I started studying the Italian language from scratch. When I first started my Italian course, the impact was difficult for me at the beginning because we only speak Italian in the classroom.
But now that I am at the intermediate level, I got more confident and I am used to living in Italy. In fact, I’m doing just great.
Before the Italian course in ELLCI, I had never studied Italian. But I think that during the lesson we do many conversations, games and exercises that you cannot do when you are studying a language by yourself. Even the teachers are all fantastic.
What brought you to Italy?
The main reason that brought me to Italy is love. I gave up everything in my country and I came to Italy with my Italian boyfriend.
I am also interested in Italian culture. In the future, I would like to work in Milan therefore it is necessary to speak Italian. I studied fashion at university, so I think Milan is the right place to specialize in this sector.
What are the documents needed to live and study in Italy?
A passport and visa are certainly required. It is also important to have good health insurance that covers the entire duration of your stay in Italy when applying for a visa.
How has your life changed in Milan?
My life has undergone a radical change here in Milan. In this period I have time to study so I can focus on learning the Italian language.
Do you have any plans for the future? Will you stay in Milan?
I really like living in Milan so I would like to stay here for a long time.
One thing you like about living in Italy and one thing you don’t like.
I think the best advantage of living in Italy is Italian food!
But I don’t like that there are so many dirty walls around the city, I think it’s a pity.
What would you recommend to anyone who starts studying Italian and dreams of living in Italy?
Don’t be shy! Talk a lot with Italians even if you can’t speak well. They are kind, they will help you understand.
Studying Italian in Milan is very helpful to network and create a new community in a new city. If you are looking for inspiration to get on the right track to master the Italian language, you should definitely take a look at the long-term Italian courses.