Studying Law in Italy: Monash Global Campus Intensives Experience
For Monash Law student Daniella Cosentino, the opportunity to study law in Italy was more than an academic decision, it was a long-held aspiration.
“I had wanted to study in Prato since my first year at Monash!” she said.
Through the Monash Global Campus Intensives (MGCI) program, Daniella completed three units at Monash’s Prato campus in 2023: Global Issues in Private and Commercial Law, Global Issues in Environment Law and Climate Change, and Global Issues in Criminal Law and Justice.
The MGCI program allows students to enrol in specific units at Monash’s international campuses, offering a unique blend of academic rigour and cultural immersion. For Daniella, the experience was transformative.
“I was excited by the opportunity to learn law in a global context, in another country with different traditions and language,” she said.
Small Classes, Big Impact
Daniella expected her MGCI units to mirror her classes at the Clayton Campus. However, she appreciated that learning was delivered differently in Prato.
“I found that my MGCI classes were smaller and more interactive,” she explained.
This format fostered deeper connections with both classmates and lecturers, enhancing the learning experience. The intensive nature of the units also demanded a shift in study habits.
“I needed to make sure that I was always prepared, on top of class work and engaging with the material so I could contribute to thought-provoking class discussions,” Daniella said.
In between classes, the nature of the program offered opportunities to connect with a different culture and country.
“I would ordinarily be working while studying in Melbourne, but in Prato my free time was spent exploring!”
A Global Legal Education in Prato
One of the most surprising aspects of the MGCI experience for Daniella was the sense of community.
“Initially, I wanted to live in Florence, however, we were required to choose from accommodation options in Prato,” Daniella shared.
This turned out to be a highlight of the experience.
“All students were living close to each other and it was much easier to catch up with friends from class!”.
Living in Prato also offered a more authentic Italian experience.
“Prato is more of a local’s town, compared toFlorence which is more 'touristy'. I really enjoyed being immersed in the Italian culture,” she said.
Building personal confidence and gaining international perspective
Daniella’s MGCI journey wasn’t just about academics, but it also promoted personal growth.
“I am more confident in my ability to independently tackle challenges in a foreign context,” she reflected.
The experience broadened her understanding of legal systems and enriched her professional perspective.
“It gave me different perspectives on legal issues and how we can resolve legal questions by learning from the models of other countries.”
Studying Law with travel, culture, and connection
Beyond the classroom, Daniella made the most of her time abroad.
“I travelled both with my friends and on my own. I was lucky to explore more of Italy and even see parts of France, Switzerland and the United Kingdom,” she said.
The accessibility of travel from Prato added another layer of enrichment to the MGCI experience.
Why MGCI is an invaluable experience for Monash Law students
When asked why she would recommend MGCI to other students, Daniella was unequivocal.
“Living abroad helps you understand perspectives that you would not be able to see in Melbourne,” she said.
From embracing new systems to forming lasting friendships, the benefits were profound.
“Our lecturers introduced us to different ways of legal thinking, informed by the experiences of other legal systems. Our lecturers organised for us to hear from professors of Italian Universities and a partner in an Italian law firm.”
“I had such an amazing MGCI experience and it is something I will always remember and cherish. I highly recommend it to Monash students.”