Milan Housing Accommodations

So, you're considering staying in a dorm, an apartment, or a homestay. Which choice do you choose? You're probably overthinking which option is the greatest, and I'm here to give you the honest answers): It may be a little biased because I live on the 10th floor in a dorm and am sharing my friends' thoughts and experiences, but hopefully, this list of pros and cons will help you make your final decision!

Milan Studio Apartment/Dorms

Pros: 

• The majority of IES Abroad students will reside here, making socializing, group work, and going out easy! 
• Having your own space to relax in when adjusting to a new setting is extremely beneficial.
• Comes with a private kitchen, bathroom, desk, and table. The room also includes cooking basics such as pots, pans, bowls, plates, glasses, silverware, and so on.
• Cleaning services are available at IES Abroad Milan…need I say more?
  • This includes garbage removal, change of your towel & linens, and cleaning of the bathroom, floor, and counter surfaces.
• Central location so you’ll have an easy commute using public transportation.
• Common spaces are nice and clean.
  • Includes a gym, a cinema, a game area, a laundry facility, and study rooms!

Cons:

• Living alone in a new place can be isolating at times.
  • However, there are floor events in the first few weeks, so you can get to know people on your floor.
• Pay an additional $1500 charge
• Guest policy is strictly imposed. Guests from outside of Aparto are allowed till 7 p.m.
• There is no meal plan, so you must cook...unless you eat out every night.
• Must pay for laundry.

Milan Apartments

Pros and cons, depending on who you are and how you look at it!

• "Family style," with 4-8 other IES Abroad students living with you.
• There are always people to come home to.
• Sharing your kitchen and your living space.
  • I've heard that cooking can sometimes be cramped and difficult. 
• Could live in a single or double room.
• More affordable (prices might range from $750 to free)
• Because fewer students will be in your building, it may be more challenging to mingle and work with other program/dorm students.

Homestays

Pros:

• Living with an Italian family provides a cultural insight.
• Saving money on groceries with home-cooked meals.
• Most cost-efficient option.
• Family support system—have people to come home to who genuinely care!
  • They are able to show you around the city and the greatest local spots. 
• You are more likely to become fluent in Italian since you will be exposed to it.
• In-home washing machine.

Cons:

• Reduced privacy, making you feel like a guest in the house. 
  • Living with someone else's family can be challenging since you don't fully feel at home.
• Sharing household responsibilities and chores.
  • (Depending on the family) could have parental rules or restrictions.
• Farther commute to classes and anyone who lives in the dorms/apartments.
• You may feel more isolated from the people in your program.
  • However, you will have other homestay students in the same situation!
  • Everyone has classes together so you’ll be able to meet friends.