by Natalie Nassar

Esraa’s journey to Milan reflects a life shaped by movement, resilience, and curiosity. Originally from Syria, she moved to Sweden at the age of 18, carrying with her the warmth of her Arab upbringing while gradually adapting to the structured, organised environment of Scandinavian life. Finishing up her final semester of a Bachelor’s degree in International Business Management from Mälardalen University (MDU), or Mälardalens universitet, she has chosen to spend her last academic chapter abroad, embracing a new cultural experience in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, Milan. 

For Esraa, her desire to study abroad originates from both academic and social aspects. She describes herself as grateful for the opportunities Sweden has given her, but she also felt a strong desire to experience something different before graduating. Having previously visited Italy, including Milan, Cinque Terre, Pisa, and Bologna, she already knew she loved the country’s atmosphere. The combination of culture, food, weather, and lifestyle made Milan an obvious choice from her perspective.

One of the main aspects Esraa noticed after arriving in Italy was the strong emphasis Italians place on presentation and fashion, while subtly being aware of this reputation, seeing it in action both surprised and inspired her. Rather than feeling intimidated, she viewed it as an opportunity to grow and learn. Her interest in creativity stems from both fashion nd drawing as a personal hobby. Within this, she hopes to combine this with her International Business education. Being in Milan, especially during the fashion season, has reinforced her excitement about potentially merging these passions in the future. 

Culturally, Esraa finds Italy familiar in some ways and different in others. Compared to Sweden, she perceives Italians as more social and expressive, which reminds her of Arab culture. This familiarity of warmth and hospitality has helped her adapt quickly and feel comfortable in her new environment. Although she has only recently arrived and has not yet formed deep friendships, she speaks enthusiastically about everyday interactions with locals, particularly in cafés and restaurants, where people have shown patience and kindness as she practices Italian. 

Identity is a central theme in Esraa’s story. Having grown up between cultures, she does not see herself as fully belonging to one or the other. Instead, she views her personality as a combination of both worlds. From her Arab background, she values generosity, warmth, and friendliness. From Sweden, she has learned discipline, organisation, and independence. Together, she feels she embodies the best of both cultures, in which these influences have shaped who she is today. “I can’t be fully Arab, and I can’t be fully Swedish,” she reflects, “it’s a combination.”

Esraa’s Erasmus+ semester in Milan represents more than an exchange programme, it is a meaningful step in her personal development. Wanting to make the most of an experience abroad, Esraa remains eager to gain exposure on creative inspiration, and cultural exploration; she continues to build a future that reflects the richness of her international identity.