Our third day in Milan began with an early start, 8:15. We departed our hotel after breakfast to see a local university, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore). We listened to a lecture from a wonderful professor by the name of Romana Rinaldi. She is an expert in fashion across Europe and has particular expertise in the sustainability of the fashion supply chain. She clearly defined fashion vs. luxury for us and elaborated on how the impact on both of these markets can have an impact on people, profit, and the planet (she shared that a single pair of jeans uses a minimum of 10,000 liters of water for production!). She really tried to make us aware of what it means to be a conscious customer when shopping for clothing.

Following her presentation, we had another lecture from one of the leading ladies in the office of international study. They shared about the different opportunities that existed at the University should we ever have the chance to return and finish our studies. They offer semester, summer, and 2 week winter courses. Having such an interest in the wide range of courses offered on the topic, returning to potentially study is something I will explore further upon my return to Pitt.

After our second presentation of the day concluded, we had a campus walking tour with local students of the university who are involved in Erasmus. They showed us around the various places within the school’s grounds and also shared the superstitions upheld by the student body (disclaimer: almost all say a student will fail to graduate!). On this tour we stopped by the school’s canteen or cafeteria for lunch. Pasta, protein, cheese, and salad were all in abundance. It certainly gave market a run for its money.

Tomorrow we have another early morning as we board the bus for a day at Lake Como. I can’t wait!