Italy: Cultivating Knowledge, Inspiring Minds | Fall 2024

Status

Closed

Trip Destination

Milan, Italy

Approximate Price

See Cost Information Below

Trip Date

10/19/2024

TO

10/27/2024

Application Deadline

04/30/2024

Cost Information

Cost for Domestic Students: $500-$1000 (includes IFS + BWR Course)
Cost for International Students: $1000 (includes IFS + BWR Course)
Cost for Students Not Willing to Take the BWR Course: ~$5000 (Full amount of IFS)

Above costs are for International Field Studies, for other programs please see the approximate cost listed above.

Program Information

This opportunity is available to all Niagara College students who: 

    • Are currently enrolled in and returning to their program at Niagara College 
    • Have not yet taken part in a Be World Ready IFS experience since beginning their studies at Niagara College 
    • Are in good academic standing at the time of selection and prior to departure 
    • Are actively enrolled in a program at Niagara College during the term(s) of travel 
    • Agree to enroll in and complete the General (SOCL 1128) or Liberal (IDPL 9103) elective course in the Fall 2024 term (September – December 2024) OR agree to pay the full amount of the trip if not participating in the Be World Ready Course (Up to ~6K, depending on IFS destination).
    • Students who do not wish to complete the 14-week Be World Ready course, during the fall 2024 term will be required to attend 2 in-person pre-departure training sessions, complete the 3-module self-directed pre-departure training modules, and the post-experience in-person debrief. For this, you will receive a BWR certificate for your portfolio and a $500 BWR grant applied to your student account upon return.

Cost for Domestic Students for “Milan, Italy” is : $1000

Physical Intensity

Moderate - Walking around city, uneven terrain/inclines, sitting for day trips, longer periods of standing during site visits, kitchen environment

Accommodations

7 Nights in Hotels, Round Trip Airfare

Meals

6 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, Meals on Flights

Steps to Apply

  1. First, complete the Eligibility Survey here to make sure you qualify.
    • 5 minutes to complete
  2. Click here to register for the “Italy: Cultivating Knowledge, Inspiring Minds” IFS
    • Approx. 30 minutes to complete, you will need a digital photo of your passport
  3. Confirmed eligible students will receive the instructions to make the $1000 one-time payment by April 19th, 2024 to confirm your seat on the IFS.**If not registering for the BWR course, you will be supplied the full flight amount to be paid upon confirmed registration, along with instructions for program payment by April 19th.
  4. Receive email confirmation that your seat has been saved from [email protected].
  5. Get your suitcase out!

Italy: Cultivating Knowledge, Inspiring Minds | Fall 2024

Explore Milan: Where Tradition Inspires Tomorrow’s Innovations!

Arrive in Milan and dive straight into the city’s beating heart with a guided tour, exploring iconic landmarks like the awe-inspiring Duomo di Milano and the historic Sforzesco Castle. Embark on an unforgettable journey through Italy, starting with an exploration of Milan’s dynamic business environment and innovative startup scene. Then, dive into the cutting-edge technology of Leonardo before experiencing the compassion of AISPO’s health initiatives. Finally, escape to the tranquil countryside of Brescia’s Franciacorta wine region for a tasting adventure, where centuries of winemaking tradition await. Indulge in wine tastings amidst stunning landscapes, savoring Italy’s finest. Finally, bid arrivederci to Italy as you check out from your hotel and head back to Canada, filled with unforgettable memories and newfound knowledge from your Italian adventure. It’s a trip packed with excitement, exploration, and unforgettable experiences!

 

Travel Visa + Immigration Documentation:

Students are responsible for researching and applying for any required visa(s) or ETIAS on their own; Be World Ready is not able to apply for any travel visa(s) or ETIAS on your behalf. Be World Ready will provide you with supporting documentation 11 weeks before departure to apply for a Visa as long as you have confirmed your appointment date at [email protected]. All international students will need to ensure that their Study Permits and Student Visas are not expired before the date of return from the international experience, to ensure that there are no challenges upon reentry to Canada. Travel restrictions and requirements for entry to Canada may change at any time. All travellers are responsible for remaining up to date with any restrictions and requirements for travel and re-entry to Canada leading up to and throughout their International Field Study. Niagara College Canada will assume no responsibility for any changes to governing body travel restrictions, required documentation for travel or any refused entry as a result of change. Travellers are encouraged to review the Government of Canada Website for the latest restrictions and requirements for entry to Canada, as well as to check entry requirements to their destination country as a Canadian citizen. If an ETIAS is not acquired, a visa appointment is not secured, or if a visa application is rejected, Niagara College and Be World Ready are unable to refund any payments made. All payments made towards the International Field Study are final.

International Field Study Overview – Milan, Italy


Day 1 – OCTOBER 19
:
  Depart from the DJP or the Welland Campus with your travel group, bags packed and ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Travel from Toronto to Montreal for a brief layover before departing to Milan, Italy. This is a long travel day. Be prepared with snacks and water!

Included Meals: Meals are included on the flight from Montreal to Milan

Dress Code: Casual

Day 2 – OCTOBER 20:  Ciao! Welcome to Italy! After collecting your luggage, hop on the bus to Milan. Once you arrive, get ready for a delightful group lunch to fuel up for the day ahead. Then, embark on an exciting, guided tour of the local area around your accommodations. Milan is a treasure trove of attractions, museums, shops, and restaurants, all waiting to be discovered. As the sun sets, the evening is yours to savour a delicious dinner and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Milan. Enjoy your first free night in this magnificent city! Mangia, mangia!

Included Meals: Lunch

Dress Code: Casual

Day 3 – OCTOBER 21:  First on the agenda is a tour of The Canadian Consulate of Milan, where you’ll learn about the essential services they offer, from passport renewals to emergency assistance. Next, enjoy some free time for lunch, sampling the local cuisine at your leisure. Then, get ready to dive into Milan’s rich history and vibrant culture on a comprehensive city tour. Marvel at iconic landmarks like Piazza del Duomo, and the historic Sforzesco Castle.

The evening is yours to savour a leisurely dinner and reflect on the day’s adventures. Enjoy the magic of Milan!

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel

Dress Code: Business Casual

Day 4 – OCTOBER 22Your first stop is Opendot, a dynamic hub of creativity and technology. This multidisciplinary research and innovation center is a hotbed for social innovation and cutting-edge ideas. After soaking in the inspiring atmosphere at Opendot, take a break for some free time, lunch and savour some local flavours. Post-lunch, prepare to be awestruck as you tour the magnificent Duomo di Milano. This Gothic masterpiece, one of the world’s largest and most intricate cathedrals, will leave you spellbound with its grandeur and detail. Following this enriching cultural experience, return to the hotel for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and reflect on the day’s adventures in this remarkable city.

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel

Dress Code: Business Casual

Day 5 – OCTOBER 23:  The morning is yours to explore at your own pace—whether it’s strolling through charming streets, visiting a local café, or indulging in some retail therapy. Take your time and enjoy lunch wherever your taste buds lead you.

In the afternoon, regroup for an exciting consulting project onsite, where you’ll dive into real-world challenges and collaborate on innovative solutions. After a productive session, the evening is all yours to unwind and relish in Milan’s vibrant nightlife, savor a leisurely dinner, and soak up the city’s enchanting atmosphere. Enjoy every moment of your Milanese adventure!

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel

Dress Code: Business Casual

Day 6 – OCTOBER 24:  The group will visit the Energy Dome, a groundbreaking company transforming the future with its innovative technology for large-scale and long-duration energy storage. Once you’ve absorbed the insights from the Energy Dome, it’s time to enjoy free time and lunch at a local eatery of your choice. After recharging, prepare for an exhilarating Stadium Tour of AC Milan Football Club! Known officially as Associazione Calcio Milan, this legendary club is not only one of the most successful in Italy but also a historic giant in the football world. Pro Tip – don’t say “soccer”. Indulge in a relaxed dinner at a delightful restaurant and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture. Free time is fun time!

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel

Dress Code: Business Casual

Day 7 – OCTOBER 25:  Your first stop: join your group as you head out to experience the authentic flavours of Italy with an immersive cooking class in Milan. Guided by expert local chefs, you’ll learn to prepare traditional Italian dishes using fresh, local ingredients, from handmade pasta to classic desserts. Next up is free time for lunch. After lunch, you will experience “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci, one of the most revered masterpieces of the Renaissance, painted between 1495 and 1498 in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. As the sun sets, the evening is all yours to explore.

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel

Dress Code: Business Casual

Day 8 – OCTOBER 26:  Step away from the lively streets of Milan and journey into the picturesque Italian countryside. Your destination is the beautifully preserved town of Brescia, nestled in the heart of the Franciacorta wine region. Once a serene retreat for Milanese aristocrats and industrialists, Franciacorta is now famed for producing what many consider Italy’s finest sparkling wine. As you explore Brescia’s charming streets and scenic vineyards, enjoy the freedom to indulge in local cuisine at your own pace, with free time for lunch and dinner. This is your chance to experience the elegance and flavour of Italy’s countryside in a truly unforgettable way.

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel

Dress Code: Casual

Day 9 – OCTOBER 27:  Afterward, take advantage of free time for last-minute sightseeing or shopping, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere one last time. As your adventure draws to a close, it’s time to bid Italy farewell, leaving you with a heart full of memories—of delectable cuisine, fine wine, and unforgettable experiences. With a long travel day ahead, ensure you’re prepared with snacks and water to keep you comfortable on the journey home. Safe travels!

Included Meals: Breakfast at the Hotel

Dress Code: Casual

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Disclaimers: Be World Ready does its best to execute the itinerary as outlined above, however, all elements are subject to change based on availability or requirement to adapt due to circumstances outside of our control. Students are reminded that it is their responsibility to research the entry requirements to the destination countries visited per their nationality and vaccination status.

* Price per student is in Canadian Dollars and reflects the Be World Ready (BWR) grant which has been applied to the total trip cost to heavily subsidize the rate per person. To qualify for the full value of the BWR grant, students must be enrolled in, and successfully complete the Be World Ready course (learn about the BWR course by clicking here). Assignments, travel requirements, and expectations will be clearly communicated by BWR staff prior to the start of term. Students who do not successfully complete the course risk not meeting the grant requirements, which could result in being charged back the full value of the grant (up to $6000, depending on the IFS). Please review the Grant Requirements section of the IFS webpage.

Included

  • Round-trip airfare, including 1 checked bag
  • Accommodations
    • Students will share rooms with assigned roommates (you will have the opportunity to select a roommate), each having their own bed.
    • Single accommodations, if desired, must be requested during registration. Additional fees will apply.
  • Travel Insurance
  • Transportation to/from Toronto
  • Meals as outlined in the itinerary
  • Activities as described in the daily itinerary
  • Ground transportation in the country
  • The rate per student is in Canadian Dollars and inclusive of taxes and fees

Not Included

  • Visa Fees (if necessary)
  • Passport (or any associated costs)
  • Meals not outlined in the daily itinerary
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Souvenirs
  • Departure taxes (otherwise known as an Exit Tax) or additional fees for items not noted as included, if applicable. An example of additional fees could be overweight baggage.
The Be World Ready program at Niagara College prepares you for global success through education, exchange, and international experience. This program offers you the opportunity to experience culturally diverse learning environments, understand different perspectives and connect practical skills with a global mindset to help you launch your career.
An international field study is a 7 – 10 day experience that incorporates both vocational and cultural elements, while visiting some of the world’s most famous sights! Many of our international field studies are customized for specific Schools and programs at Niagara College, allowing students to apply the skills learned in the classroom in a real-world setting. All international field studies depart during the Niagara College break weeks to ensure that students do not miss any classes.
All international field studies will include roundtrip airfare (where applicable), accommodations, travel insurance, entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary, and some meals as outlined in the itinerary. A detailed list of inclusions and exclusions will be viewable on the posted webpage for any international field study on our website. Participants can expect to purchase some meals on their own and will need to bring spending money for any souvenirs, extra excursions, incidentals or items of a personal nature.

No. All aspects noted as included in the overall cost of the selected international field study are mandatory with no exceptions made. Our international field studies are built using group pricing and it is important that we do not deviate from the inclusions as it could negatively impact our ability to offer fair pricing to all participants.

In addition to affecting group pricing, these are our Niagara College International Field Study policies, and we cannot deviate from them, as they are part of our risk mitigation and management.

No. Students are not able to book their own flight in any way or alter the flights confirmed by Be World Ready. The round-trip flights as confirmed by Be World Ready are part of the package pricing, and the group is to travel to and from the destination country together.

These are our Niagara College International Field Study policies, and we cannot deviate from them, as they are part of our risk mitigation and management.

Each international field study destination has different accommodation providers or themes. Accommodation types that are used may include a combination of dorm-style rooms, homestays, tourist class hotels, or occasionally hostels. We strive to ensure we use centrally located accommodation when in city centres, allowing our participants to explore their surroundings more easily. Private accommodation is not guaranteed.

Rooms will vary in style on each trip; however, they are commonly twin share (2 people to a room with separate beds where possible). Single rooms may be available for an additional room fee provided adequate notice is given to Be World Ready staff. We strive to ensure you have comfortable, affordable accommodations anywhere you travel.

Students will be given the opportunity to meet their fellow travellers before the deadline to submit their roommate requests. Be World Ready does their best to accommodate rooming requests, but please note that final rooming arrangements are subject to room occupancy requirements and availability. A rooming list will be created by Be World Ready staff and shared with our accommodation providers before your departure. All participants will be emailed and will have the opportunity to identify their preferred roommate(s). While we will make every effort to ensure all preferences are met, we cannot guarantee it.

As long as they are current full-time Niagara College students and meet the program eligibility requirements. Unfortunately, we are not able to accept any persons to participate in any of our international field studies that are not current full-time students at Niagara College.

In addition to regular communications shared with participants leading up to the departure of their international field study of choice, Be World Ready requires students to attend the Be World Ready course, which includes but is not limited to, online trainings and pre-departure training sessions. During the pre-departure training sessions, students will be presented with the overall expectations of the trip as well as in-depth details concerning their itinerary.

During their time abroad, students will be able to communicate with their trip leads directly, 24/7, with any questions or concerns.

All participants are required to hold a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond any expected date of return to participate in any opportunity involving outbound travel.

You are responsible for researching and applying for any required visa(s) on your own. Be World Ready is unable to tell you what visa you require and how to apply. Be World Ready will provide you with supporting documentation as needed to apply for a Visa. While Be World Ready is not able to advise or guide you in a heightened level of detail through any particular visa process, you may consider hiring a travel visa service to assist you with the visa application process, such as CIBT visas. Please note that Be World Ready and Niagara College do not endorse any third-party vendors, nor have any influence or control over any outcomes or services rendered. We cannot apply for a visa on behalf of any participant.

All international students will need to ensure that their Study Permits and Student Visas are not expired before the date of return from the international experience, to ensure that there are no challenges with reentry to Canada.

Yes, while it is great to have a Nexus card, all participants must hold a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond any expected date of return in order to participate in any opportunity outside of Canada.
Depending on your destination country, we encourage you to book an appointment with a travel health professional regarding any additional vaccinations and medications you may need. It is strongly encouraged that you book an appointment with the Campus Nurse to go over this information. To do so, please visit the medical office to book an appointment at your respective campus.
Be World Ready takes the safety of our staff and students very seriously and has a rigorous risk management assessment when creating all opportunities. Be World Ready staff monitor destination country risk levels as communicated by the Government of Canada. Your safety is the most important aspect of this trip. Be World Ready and Niagara College take all possible precautions to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable experience while travelling abroad.
Students who sign up during the active promotional period for the international field study will be presented with a payment schedule to follow. At time of registration, students will be only required to pay the full non-refundable deposit that is disclosed at time of registration. Students who are permitted to sign up late will be expected to catch up on any payments missed according to the payment schedule advertised. In some instances, there may only be one payment due date.
Complete the eligibility quiz linked on the webpage of the International Field Study you’re interested in to find out if you meet eligibility requirements.
No. Students will not directly receive grant money as the full value of the grant has already been applied to the final payment to offset the total cost of the learning experience abroad. For students who do not complete all grant requirements by established deadlines (including the time of submission), the full grant amount may be charged directly to their student account. Details on grant requirements will be shared with you as part of the mandatory Be World Ready (SOCL 1128 or IDPL 9103) course, which all students participating in a Be World Ready International Field Study must enroll in and successfully complete to receive funding.
Students are only permitted to travel on an IFS to their home country if the IFS is program specific. IFS’ that are open to students from all programs do not permit students to travel if the destination is their home country. The purpose of the grant funding is to help students gain global competencies that they would not otherwise be exposed to, and as such, travelling to destinations they’ve previously lived in does not support this goal.
Students have the potential to travel and receive funding through Be World Ready up to 2 times; students can travel once on either an International Field Study, Summer Institute, or Semester Exchange, and they can potentially travel again for a Work Abroad opportunity (if eligibility requirements are met – please note that if more applications are received than work abroad grants available, priority will be given to those who have never travelled on any type of Be World Ready experience before). So, if you’re wanting to travel on an International Field Study, note that participation on an IFS is permitted only for students who have not yet experienced a Be World Ready IFS, Summer Institute, or Semester Exchange since beginning their studies at Niagara College.

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