"An extraordinary experience": Our MSc Management trip to Milan

Our MSc Management students took a week-long trip to Milan, Italy to visit SDA Bocconi School of Management. We asked Akshada and Adwait to document their journey, and let us know how they got on.

What did you get up to?

Adwait: We began with an introduction to the course and the world of luxury. Experts from Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and Bain & Company consultants gave us valuable insights into global consumer behaviour in luxury industry in recent years, along with research on trends and future projections in the luxury market.

Riccardo Sciutto, former CEO of Sergio Rossi, explained with real-world examples how luxury footwear companies implement their strategies of branding and production.

Akshada: Our days were dedicated to intensive classes and engaging discussions with renowned industry professionals as speakers. BCG provided valuable global consumer insights, highlighting the post-COVID recovery and spill over effect in the luxury industry.

Then the session by the senior managers of Bain & Company provided us with a comprehensive and contemporary understanding of the luxury goods market to develop effective business strategies within the luxury sector.

Adwait: We also got an understanding about the luxury industry from a financial perspective by understanding the role of investment funds, through the case of leading luxury investment fund company Style Capital. Marco Piscitelli, Managing Director of Molteni Group gave us an understanding of how the luxury furniture industry works.

Did you get chance to explore Milan?

Akshada: We had the chance to enjoy Italy’s nightlife which offered a plethora of experiences that cater to every taste. From bustling city centres to charming coastal towns, Italy's nightlife scene has something for everyone.

Adwait: We made sure to explore the beautiful city of Milan. We visited Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping mall, Navigli, and also walked around the gorgeous streets of Milan and enjoyed the Italian food.

We had a cohort dinner accompanied by our professors Cathy & Daniella, and on the last day, we visited the beautiful Lake Como. 

What were your key takeaways?

Akshada: The journey to SDA Bocconi was an extraordinary experience that immersed us in the world of luxury. From captivating classroom sessions to immersive company visits and unforgettable moments exploring the beauty of Milan, this trip provided invaluable insights into the luxury industry.

Armed with new-found knowledge and unforgettable memories, we left inspired and ready to make our mark in the dynamic world of luxury.

Adwait - This study trip has been an eye-opening experience for me. I got the opportunity to immerse myself in the world of luxury industries by learning from industry leaders and also connecting with them in the world’s fashion capital.

With this experience, I feel highly confident to have had gained valuable knowledge about the luxury industry and brand management which will be helpful for me in my future career.

Would you recommend one of these trips to future students?

Akshada: Absolutely! The trip consisted of learning, laughter, and living in the moment.

Adwait: I would definitely say to opt-in for future study trips based on your areas of interests, and make the most of your time by networking and socialising with industry leaders while enjoying the destination.

Take the opportunities WBS offers to learn and have fun in such great environments, they may not come around again often after you graduate!