To promote the internationalization of talent cultivation and broaden students' global perspectives and practical abilities, in accordance with the development plan for the key discipline of "Applied Economics" and in conjunction with the first-class specialty construction plans for "International Economics and Trade" and "Financial Technology" as well as talent development programs, Shenzhen MSU-BIT University's Department of Economics recently selected and sent 43 students to Milan, Italy for a two-week summer study program. This international exchange program focused on "Italy's Path to Success and China-Italy Bilateral Cooperation." The courses were provided by the Graduate School of Management at Politecnico di Milano and adopted various formats, including lectures, executive seminars, corporate visits, cross-cultural experiences, and team project practices, building an academic and practical bridge for students between the business fields of China and Italy.
Deepening Classroom Learning, Experiencing Italy's Academic and Commercial Frontiers
During the two-week study program, a series of high-quality and systematic course arrangements provided students with valuable opportunities to deepen their professional knowledge and broaden their academic horizons. In the first class, Professor Lucio Lamberti took "The Italian Way" as the theme and, through accessible case studies, opened the door for students to explore Italy's unique historical, cultural, and social landscape.
The following days' courses revolved around topics such as China-Italy bilateral investment cooperation, the development model of Italian family businesses, the establishment and growth of regional brands, and cutting-edge trends in global financial markets. From macroeconomic and micro-behavioral perspectives, combined with detailed data and vivid case studies, these sessions helped students understand the characteristics of Italy's economic development. They also showcased the current state, opportunities, and challenges of economic cooperation between China and Italy, significantly expanding students' understanding of international economic and trade collaboration.
Courses on the application of the metaverse in business and consumer neuroscience further opened a door to emerging interdisciplinary fields, allowing students to experience the profound impact of cutting-edge academic achievements on commercial practices.
Executive Seminars: Listening to Firsthand Industry Stories and Experiences
In addition to professional course instruction, the Graduate School of Management at Politecnico di Milano invited several senior executives from leading enterprises to share behind-the-scenes stories and insights on Italy's distinctive industrial development, brand building, and corporate operations.
Ms. Valentina Salvadalena from Lenovo explained how companies can adapt their development strategies based on specific local cultures and market characteristics. Angelo Cruciani, founder of the Italian design brand YEZAEL, delivered an engaging lecture on the evolution of the fashion industries in Italy and China. Leveraging years of industry experience, Angelo Corti Pedruzzi, an executive from Softech, discussed with students how innovation can enhance a company's competitiveness in the global market.
Cultural Experience: Visiting Italian Enterprises and Specialty Farms
In addition to the engaging courses and lectures, on-site visits provided students with invaluable hands-on learning opportunities. Students toured renowned Italian companies such as Dallara and Pagani Automotive, stepping onto production floors to observe advanced manufacturing equipment and meticulous production processes up close. They experienced firsthand the excellence of Italian automotive manufacturing in both craftsmanship and management philosophy.
At Acetaia Gambigliani Zoccoli, a traditional vinegar factory, the rich aroma of aged vinegar filled the air, narrating centuries of Italian artisanal fermentation. Students not only sampled local farm delicacies but also witnessed the intricate process of crafting traditional balsamic vinegar—from raw materials to finished products—deepening their appreciation for the preservation and inheritance of traditional techniques in modern commerce.
Campus tours and off-site visits also proved highly rewarding: strolling through the Bovisa campus immersed students in a vibrant academic atmosphere; exploring San Siro Stadium allowed them to feel the passion and fervor of Italian football; and stepping into Politecnico di Milano’s wind tunnel laboratory unveiled the marvels of technology and engineering. These comprehensive cultural experiences and visits gave students a more direct and personal understanding of Italy’s history, culture, and business practices.
Team Collaboration: Showcasing Talent in Group Research Projects
In the final phase of the study visit, team projects became a key platform for students to demonstrate their learning outcomes. Each group actively engaged in project discussions, integrating insights from two weeks of coursework and hands-on experiences to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world case analyses. After days of dedicated effort, they showcased their unique strengths in the final project presentations, delivering impressive reports that highlighted their research findings to faculty and peers. This marked a perfect conclusion to the extraordinary study visit.
This study visit has advanced the first-class discipline development of the School of Economics at Shenzhen MSU-BIT University, providing students majoring in International Economics and Trade as well as Financial Technology with a valuable platform for international exchange and talent cultivation. It has broadened students' global perspectives and enhanced their practical skills, while also deepening the international collaboration between the university and the Graduate School of Management at Politecnico di Milano in areas such as talent development and scientific research. This initiative further promotes the high-quality development of cultivating international and high-caliber talents.
Reflections on the Study Visit
Zhu Shiwei, Class of 2023, International Economics and Trade:
The twelve-day study visit to Politecnico di Milano passed in a flash, yet it was incredibly rewarding. In the classrooms of the School of Management, cutting-edge academic concepts and case studies sparked new ways of thinking. Respected professors covered topics ranging from Italy’s historical and cultural heritage to Sino-Italian fashion design, and from family business models to innovation and competition in global markets. Beyond academic lectures, we visited renowned companies like Pagani and iconic sites such as San Siro Stadium. During weekends, my friends and I explored landmarks like the Milan Cathedral and Lake Garda. Immersed in the blend of historical richness and commercial vibrancy, I gained a deeper understanding that "trade is more than just transactions."
Guo Xiaoya, Class of 2023, Financial Technology:
During the twelve-day visit to Milan, I delved into interdisciplinary knowledge—from Italy’s cultural heritage to financial trends and family business models. Corporate visits allowed me to grasp the pulse of real-world industries, while exploring the stadium revealed the dynamism of sports economics. The cross-disciplinary insights broadened my perspective, teaching me that knowledge integration and a global outlook are keys to unlocking new growth opportunities. This trip exceeded all my expectations.
Yang Hongyi, Class of 2023, Financial Technology:
This journey to Milan not only expanded my horizons and knowledge but also gave me the chance to experience the local customs and culture of a European city. The professors at Politecnico di Milano were warm and approachable, and even the hotel and supermarket staff greeted us—foreign visitors—with enthusiastic "Italian-style" English. Though we couldn’t converse as fluently as locals, their hospitality felt as natural as meeting old friends. If given another opportunity, I wouldn’t hesitate to return to that beautiful city.
Li Keyu, Class of 2023, International Economics and Trade:
During my time in Milan, I was struck by the locals’ relaxed and free-spirited way of life. They value rhythm and balance, savoring coffee, food, and sunshine outside of work. This laid-back yet passionate attitude stood in stark contrast to the fast-paced lifestyle back home.
Zhou Zhifei, Class of 2023, Financial Technology:
The study visit to Politecnico di Milano left a lasting impression. The professors showed great interest in both teaching and Chinese culture. The atmosphere in Milan was effortlessly relaxed and romantic—almost everyone would order a glass of wine with lunch or dinner. The owner of the Chinese restaurant near the campus was especially friendly to us Chinese students.
