Hello everyone, my name is Marianna La Vita, I'm 19 and I moved to Malta in 2008 after living in London for four years. This year I completed the second year of the Degree in Business and Management and I did an internship at Zarattini International.
Marianna, you have already lived in Malta for many years, why the choice of the SMI instead of the local university or an experience abroad?
Actually, my plan was to move overseas for college, but once the time came, I didn't feel ready enough to do it. So I looked for an option that was not the local university because many factors did not convince me of it. Once I got to know the Saint Martin's Institute I immediately had the impression that the professors were very present and the students received a lot of individual attention, and indeed they did. Then once I learned that the degree is awarded by the University of London and the study program is that of the London School of Economics, an institution recognized all over the world, I no longer had any doubts. It was the perfect compromise for staying at home, but at the time often earning a valid and globally recognized degree.
In your opinion, what are the advantages of living in Malta compared to Italy?
Malta is a perfect island for young people, there are many interesting job opportunities that we would not find in Italy. In addition, the study / work environment is very stimulating given that Malta is a multicultural island, and therefore, we are confronted with different cultures and come into contact with people from various parts of the world. After Maltese, the most widely spoken language is English and the fact of studying in English is a factor that opens many doors for you. Even if you don't know the language before arriving, you will learn it very quickly here. Furthermore, it is a very safe island and the Maltese are welcoming, friendly and generous with advice in case of difficulty.
What did you expect before starting your studies? Have expectations been maintained?
From what I had been told by the professors themselves but also by students who have attended the SMI in the past, I expected a very difficult course and in fact sometimes it is, but with a lot of commitment, perseverance and certainly with the help of the professors who they always guide us, everything is more feasible and interesting.
Do you think that an SMI degree could open you more job opportunities than a degree in Italy?
This is one of the main elements that prompted me to choose the SMI. First of all, the degree that will be awarded to us will be recognized all over the world and the London School of Economics is very prestigious worldwide, certainly more recognized than most Italian universities. This will offer us interesting job opportunities, not only in Malta, but I believe in many other countries. Moreover, every year, starting from the first year of university, SMI organizes an event called "Careers Event" in which it puts us in contact with directors of various local and international companies who are looking for students to be hired for internships. in the summer months, but also full-time after completing the Bachelor's Degree.
Have you considered doing a master's degree after your Bachelor's Degree?
My desire would be to work first a couple of years in Malta once the Bachelor Degree is finished, so as to get a clear idea of the sector in which I would like to specialize and then do a Master abroad.
Would you like to return to Italy or do you prefer to continue your stay in Malta?
In fact, I would like to stay in Malta for a few more years and then move abroad to get some work experience. I have never considered returning to Italy because unfortunately I don't think it is a suitable country for young people looking for work anymore.
In addition to the quality of the professors, did the SMI allow you to meet many people to make friends and network?
Aside from the friendships you make and the other students you meet over the years, the SMI allows you to meet a lot of interesting people even at the Careers Event I mentioned earlier. A perfect mix of friendships and business contacts!
What advice do you have for those with reservations about moving to Malta to study?
To tell the truth, I understand that there may be some doubt or fear, but it is certainly a beautiful experience that, if you have the chance, you should definitely have. In Malta there are many Italians, so once you have moved you will not have the impression of living in a totally unknown country. Furthermore, being a very small island, you immediately make friends with everyone and have the essentials at your fingertips.
Good 👏
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