Welcome to Bocconi

Welcome Days

Advice and best wishes from the Rector and Program Directors to new students

Francesco Billari 

Rector

“Bocconi University today – and the Bocconi Alumni Community tomorrow – will be by your side to share your successes but also the challenges that will inevitably accompany your journey of learning and research.

What you will study, the experiences you’ll have as well as the network of connections you’ll build in the coming years, will make you grow as a person and as a professional to be become a true citizen of the world. Every day you’ll advance to a new stage towards the person you want to be. The skills you will acquire here will be essential to govern the many changes that the future holds in store for you.”

Angelo Ditillo

Program Director of BSc in Business Administration and Management

“Over the next six months, you will discover that CLEAM provides comprehensive and practical preparation in the field of management, is an international program in terms of content, faculty and connections to the business community, and offers a high rate of employment and professional networking.

Bocconi is an institution where all forms of diversity coexist harmoniously and represents a community of people with shared values. It provides extraordinary career and networking opportunities and is at the forefront of economic and management research, with a focus on new technologies and sustainability.

I encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities for growth that the University provides, and I recommend that you do not experience university life as a path made up of only courses and exams.

Best wishes for your university journey! May it be full of discovery, personal growth and satisfaction. Be curious, passionate and open to diversity, and remember that every challenge is an opportunity to learn and improve.”

Stefania Borghini

Program Director of BSc in Economics and Management for Arts, Culture and Communication (CLEACC)

“In the coming months, you will discover that there is a difference between economics of culture and economics for culture. You will understand what an international and multidisciplinary education is. You will learn that...we have been making culture for a quarter of a century. As you navigate a semester with mathematics and aesthetics, law and business administration, you will understand that you are called upon to focus on complex problems that have no easy or one-size-fits-all answers, but require critical thinking that thrives on multiple dimensions and feeds on profoundly different, yet complementary views of the world.

To wish new students well, I quote some words from Toni Morrison, who suggests maintaining the ability to imagine when faced with new responsibilities:

‘...When you enter those places of trust, or power, dream a little before you think. (...) You are not helpless. You are not heartless. And you have time.’ (T. Morrison)”

Salvatore Nunnari

Program Director of BSc in Economic and Social Sciences

“Over the next six months, you will discover three essential aspects of the BSc in Economic and Social Sciences: the value of cultural diversity, the importance of reasoning and the fundamentals of economics. Understanding these elements will shape your academic journey and broaden your perspective.

When it comes to Bocconi University, there are three things you must know: the vast exchange opportunities, the numerous job fairs and the vibrant community that supports a wide array of extracurricular activities. These elements are integral to making the most of your time here.

Remember, one crucial thing to do is study in groups. This collaborative effort will enhance your learning experience and provide different viewpoints. On the flip side, one thing you must avoid is giving up on a challenging course after encountering the first hurdle. Perseverance is key to overcoming difficulties and achieving success.”

Pieralberto Guarniero

Sub-director of BSc in Economics, Management and Computer Science

“Get the most from lectures, engage with professors and peers, immerse yourself in the subjects to enjoy your study sessions. Definitely don't miss out on the BEMACS social events! The Autumn and Spring BEMACS aperitifs are always great for networking and having fun in a relaxing environment. 

BEMACS has a very strong program identity and is among the Bocconi programs with the most selected and satisfied students. We hope you enjoy thoroughly your BEMACS path to becoming a successful professional!”

Paolo Colla

Program Director of BSc in International Economics and Finance

“Bocconi is recognized globally for its rigorous academic programs, as certified by its high scores in international university rankings. It attracts students from all over the world, creating a diverse and multicultural student body. The University offers a vibrant campus life with a wide range of extracurricular activities and student organizations. 

To make the most of your time here, engage with professors and classmates to actively participate in your education path. Conversely, avoid studying at the last minute, as this can lead to needless stress and lower-quality work.”

Silvia Zamboni e Stefano Breschi

Directors of BSc in International Economics and Management

“At Bocconi, you need to know three things. Firstly, we're a bit old school. Classes are going to demand that you understand and apply serious theory – economics, management, accounting. Secondly, the University is an amazing intellectual hub for business and economics in Europe. There are so many events every week: club events, talks, cultural events, conferences, seminars. You can’t do them all, but try to do some of them – it’s part of the incredible richness of being at a top university. Thirdly, learn the bureaucratic system. It is complex, often rigid, but offers choices that may not exist in other countries. Notably, you can – no, have to – take exams at different times. This can get you in trouble if you avoid or fail too many. But you can use this to spread out your preparation, avoid doing too many things at once and perform your best.

Now, one thing to do and one thing absolutely not to do: join a club and skip studying until right before the exam. I leave it to you to figure out which to do and which to avoid.

Your time here is a huge step toward adulthood, and it will seem so brief in hindsight! Engage with your professors and fellow students in class. Take some (measured) risks. Fail, and pick yourself up, and try again. Make some lifelong friends. Have a great time.”

Italo Colantone

Program Director of BSc in International Politics and Government

“Make the most out of campus life: come every day, attend lectures and office hours, get engaged with student associations and extra-curricular activities. But don't underestimate the opportunities offered by the Bocconi community in terms of counseling and guidance for your future. It is never too early to start thinking about it and working on your next steps.

I wish you three transformative years. I hope you will enjoy them with an open mind – free from anxiety, in good spirits, with intellectual independence, and full trust in your ability to uncover what you really desire for your future, and to achieve it.”

Carlo Baldassi

Program Director of BSc in Mathematical and Computing Sciences for Artificial Intelligence

“Over the next six months, you will discover three fundamental aspects of the degree program. Firstly, you will realize that math is the common language. Secondly, you will learn that precision and clarity of thought are key, but creativity and ingenuity are the drivers. Lastly, you will find that while the initial steps might be the hardest, the fun comes after.

To make the most of your time at the University, you should avoid approaching it merely as a sequence of tests to pass, with a score to maximize. Instead, find your own path within the program. Let your intellectual curiosity run deep and wide. Take advantage of what Bocconi offers, in terms of community and opportunities.”

Alessandra Casarico

Program Director of World Bachelor in Business 

“You are at one of the top universities in Europe and the world. The third stage of your journey. Enjoy all the opportunities the University, the campus and the city have to offer, make friends across programs, and get out of the comfort zone of your WBB friends. This will be easier if you go to classes! You are brilliant students with lots of experience and ambitious plans for the future. Don't think of this year as a tick in the box, but as a crucial step for your future. Explore Europe, but don't travel too much!

I wish you all the best for your year at Bocconi and in Milan. I hope they become a place of your heart. As difficult as the academic and life challenges will be this year, know that you can count on the support of your professors and the wider university community. Continue to build strong relationships, seek help when you need it, and offer support to others; together you can achieve great things.”

Antonio Marra

Program Director of MSc in Accounting and Financial Management

Our university has several characteristics that make it unique; I will point out three of them. Bocconi has the ability to make you feel at home. You will soon discover that the university welcomes you and, as in a family, helps you grow and gives you so much. But, as in a family, it demands respect for others and sometimes challenges you. When the course is over, every time you return to Bocconi or meet friends and fellow travelers, it will be a bit like coming home. Bocconi creates a strong sense of belonging. Being a student first and an alumnus later makes you part of an inclusive, open community in which you can always recognize yourself. At our university, you prepare for the best. We help you grow by giving you the opportunity to travel, work, learn a lot, and put into practice what you have learned in the classrooms. But to grow, you need to face some trials and work hard.

In this new journey you are about to begin, I wish you to live each day with enthusiasm and serenity, always cultivating respect for others. But most of all, I ask you to remain “curious.” Albert Einstein said, “I have no special talent. I am just passionately curious.” I don't know if that was really the case, but you, here at Bocconi, cultivate your passions and always try to look beyond them with great curiosity. Welcome, best of luck on your path, and see you soon!

Laura Sanità

Program Director of MSc in Artificial Intelligence

"The Master of Science degree pathway in Artificial Intelligence is extremely exciting, given the era of tremendous technological change in which we find ourselves.

In this context, you will soon discover that AI is a multidisciplinary area, requiring high technological skills, but with deep foundations in basic sciences (such as mathematics and computer science). Acquiring fundamental skills in the basic sciences is therefore of paramount importance for those who, like us, aim to train AI makers, not just AI users. You will also find that the university offers laboratories and research centers, as well as a large network of corporate contacts, through which you will be exposed to the technological aspects and have a chance to experiment with the skills you have acquired. You will also discover that accompanying you on this path is a highly qualified and internationally recognized faculty body, which Bocconi has recruited from prestigious institutions in various parts of the world, with the aim of creating a program of excellence in a subject that is fundamental to the future of our society.

I recommend that you approach your studies with extreme curiosity. A degree program as new as ours, in an innovative area like AI, needs bright and motivated students who have an interest in trying out new science, new methods, new ideas. On the other hand, the program can sometimes present difficulties, especially for those who perhaps have a less solid background on some basic sciences. One thing absolutely not to do is to get discouraged at the first hurdle. We are here to provide all the necessary tools for this path, and there is no gap that cannot be bridged if there is talent and commitment at the base.

My wish for you is that you approach AI with an open mind, and at the same time maintain a responsible attitude toward a discipline whose sudden and important progress can often raise perplexities, including ethical ones. May these two years of study be a great source of inspiration and growth for you, both professionally and personally!”

Greta Nasi 

Program Director of MSc in Cyber Risk Strategy and Governance

“Welcome to the Master of Science in Cyber Risk Strategy and Governance at Bocconi! Over the next six months, you will discover the various facets of cybersecurity, starting with understanding the technical aspects of cybersecurity and then putting them in the context of where we live and in that of the organizations that use technologies to achieve their goals. Finally, you will learn how to seize the opportunities and fight against cyber threats.

The program is offered by Bocconi and the Polytechnic University of Milan, which are leading institutions in their respective fields for computer engineering and social sciences. The program has corporate partners that offer dedicated scholarships, but they also offer support with specific courses (e.g., pre-courses), access to their knowledge, mentors and labs.

Bocconi invests heavily in STEM subjects and this program is necessary to make people understand that the value at risk in case of a cyber attack is not related to information systems, but to the economic and social value in case of an attack.

I would advise you to take all the opportunities that the two Universities offer, and not limit yourself to what is done in the classroom.

The first edition of the program was in 2019-2020 in the middle of the pandemic. At an online exam roll call during facial recognition, there was a phone carrier blocking the connectivity of many students. There were moments of panic, but thanks to risk management processes, the use of alternative (mobile) networks, and everyone's resilience, the exam was still conducted smoothly. This made everyone realize the need to anticipate risk, prepare to govern it, remain calm, and then laugh about it!

I wish you to make the most of every opportunity this program will provide. Learn with passion, collaborate with your colleagues, and do not be afraid to push your limits. May your journey be full of discoveries and successes, both academic and personal. Good luck!”

Alessia Melegaro 

Program Director of MSc in Data Science and Business Analytics

“Over the next six months in the Master of Science DSBA program, you will gain extremely solid theoretical foundations of modern statistics and econometrics, computer science, machine learning and natural language processing, all of which are the backbone of your MSc degree. The diverse backgrounds and experiences of your classmates will enrich your learning, fostering stronger and more fruitful relationships. By the end of this period, you'll choose between the Business Analytics track and the Data Science track, each designed to equip you with strong methodological expertise for your future career.

Take advantage of the wonderful Bocconi Campus and its community by participating in student activities that interest you. Remember, do not isolate yourself; be an active part of the Bocconi community and seek help when needed.

You are at the beginning of an exciting two-year journey. Embrace both the academic and social opportunities presented to you. Enjoy the process of gaining new knowledge and expertise, and build genuine relationships with your peers as you share this journey together.”

Antonella Trigari 

Program Director of MSc in Economic and Social Sciences

“A brilliant ESS student once said: ESS doesn’t teach “how” and “what”, but rather “why.” That student’s description of ESS is fantastic! The program preps students to tackle ambitious and complex research questions, fostering a specific mindset. It trains students to challenge answers to long-standing questions and face new ones, pushing the frontier forward!

I’m excited for you to start this new adventure. Bring your curiosity, passion and determination. Learn from everything around you, and don’t stress about making mistakes – they’re just part of the journey. Your hard work will really pay off! I’m sure you’ll find new passions, make great friends and create awesome memories. Welcome, good luck and see you soon!”

Alex Turrini

Program Director of MSc in Economics and Management in Arts, Culture, Media and Entertainment

“In the next six months, you will discover an expert and dedicated faculty staff, student body and alumni community with the same passions from all over the world, and you will face continuous intellectual challenges.

When it comes to Bocconi, you need to know that you will work hard, you will feel at home, and laughing is not prohibited.

One piece of advice is to get along well with all your classmates. Conversely, do not be negative about the future.

An interesting anecdote about the degree program is that the first CLEACC/ACME student graduated 25 years ago, and she is still enthusiastic about her choice.

Throw your heart beyond each obstacle. Collaborate with your colleagues. And study a lot!”

Simone Ghislandi

Program Director of MSc in Economics and Management of Government and International Organizations

“Over the next few months, you will discover that the work and commitment in the first semester can be satisfying, creating a strong methodological and cultural foundation that will help you not only for your remaining months of studying, but also as you enter an ever-changing job market. You will discover early on that GIO is a close-knit group of supportive, team-oriented people. It is an inclusive family with many diverse people united by the knowledge that being part of a strong network will be a great asset to their future. Finally, you will discover that studying at Bocconi is not like studying just anywhere. You will understand that you can always receive support, should you need it, but also that you will be subjected to constant inspiration and challenges, which will make you grow as a student and as a person.

I think the one thing to absolutely do at Bocconi is figure out how best to take advantage of all the range of opportunities and services that this university offers, without – of course – forgetting about studying. Bocconi should be experienced as much as possible, not just attended. The thing not to do is not keep an open mind throughout your studies. Things will not always go the way you want, but often new events and approaches can provide new opportunities that we could not have even imagined before. 

Be open to these new opportunities, because Bocconi and GIO will offer you many and often unexpected ones.”

Claudio Panico

Program Director of MSc in Economics and Management of Innovation and Technology

“Welcome to EMIT, where you'll meet an array of professors, researchers and invited speakers, all focused on understanding and managing the innovation process. Get ready to work hard, both individually and with your classmates, as you dive into the world of innovation from every angle. But let's be real – the ultimate goal here is to help you pack for an extended trip. How, you ask? By stuffing your suitcase with analytical skills, decision-making abilities and a problem-solving attitude. Buckle up, it’s going to be a wild ride! And you will truly enjoy the ride if you think of yourself as a learner, not just a student.

You'll discover that innovation is one of the most fascinating topics to study, as it is transversal and common to all sectors and industries, and a fundamental engine of economic growth. You’ll find that being in EMIT feels like being constantly propelled through the learning process. And that the thrill of learning the multifaceted aspects of the innovation process can become addictive.”

Anna Battauz

Program Director of MSc in Finance

“The MSc in Finance will provide you with comprehensive knowledge, enabling you to tackle any challenges in your professional future and achieve your dreams! You will be part of a diverse group of students, all with great talent and dedication, making the university experience a joy to share together. You will have numerous opportunities and initiatives organized for you by the entire university, including the career services and international relations offices. Don’t forget the student associations, which allow you to fully experience university life, expanding your knowledge and friendships.

I suggest you always ask for clarification if a topic or explanation is unclear. It benefits everyone: the professor, who can delve deeper and be more effective; your classmates, who get an additional opportunity for clarification; and you personally, as it not only provides the desired clarification, but also helps you practice professional interaction and communication. Do not wait until the last day or week to start studying for exams. The class schedule is set up to give you time to digest complex topics and build solid knowledge foundations. Seize the moment, sharing it with your classmates!

You will be part of an amazing community, first as students and then as alumni. Every year, students from various parts of the world decide to apply to the MSc in Finance at Bocconi because they had a senior colleague or mentor during their internships who was a Bocconi MSc in Finance alumna or alumnus and became a role model for them.

Learn with joy, cultivating the pleasure of broadening your horizons. The energy of your years is unparalleled, cherish the small steps that will lead you one by one to graduation and the fulfillment of your dreams.”

Paola Dubini 

Program Director of MSc in International Management

“The International Management program is one of a thousand possible paths with a solid and consistent layout: there is something for everyone. You will meet lots of friends and be greatly inspired.

Bocconi is a university with an extraordinary network of international academic partners and companies with which it interacts on an ongoing basis, in addition to devoted and helpful alumni.

The campus is rich in inspiration before, during and after class hours. In addition, it is located in a vibrant, active university city with a wealth of cultural offerings.

Bocconi organizes activities all the time; I recommend you try them with a curious spirit. If not now, when? On the other hand, avoid asking professors: but what exactly do I need to study to pass the exam?

You will be a graduate before you know it. I hope that 5, 10, 15 years from now you will think back on the program with a smile and remember your university years as great years.”

Giovanna Padula

Program Director of MSc in Marketing Management

The MSc in Marketing Management will lead you across all the essential marketing areas while encouraging to develop cutting-edge insights into the latest and most relevant marketing knowledge, preparing you to succeed in an ever-changing competitive landscape.

It offers a comprehensive curriculum blending marketing science and rigorous methodological skills, theory and practice, while nurturing critical thinking, teamworking, and communications skills, ensuring you to rise with the capabilities of a world-class marketing leader. 

This study program promotes an international learning context where you will be constantly exposed to the latest trends in the marketing practices, you will learn how to navigate successfully through the opportunities and challenges of the digital environment, paving the way for a successful world-wide career.

Lanny Martin 

Program Director of MSc in Politics and Policy Analysis

“In the next six months, you will discover three key aspects of the degree program: relevance of what might (at first) seem to be abstract concepts, theories and methodology to the real world of politics and policy analysis; how active and successful the PPA faculty are as researchers in the areas of specialization in the program; and how actively PPA faculty engage with students to further their learning and research, from the beginning of their studies to the completion of their graduate thesis.

To succeed, it is crucial to get ahead and stay ahead on readings, projects and problem sets because rushing to complete work at the last minute almost always produces unnecessary stress and suboptimal results. Conversely, you should not obsess over grades, as graduate studies are very different from undergraduate studies, and grades are not highly valued (or even known) by prospective employers.  Focus instead on learning – all sorts of good things will follow from that.”

Francesco Perrini

Program Director of MSc in Transformative Sustainability

“The program ranges from the technical-scientific disciplines relevant to sustainability (technologies for the environment, energy, mobility and circularity) to the social science disciplines (disciplines of management, economics, quantitative and law) needed to manage a “just” sustainable transition. But in this “transition” you will find that:

• Technologies are a key enabling factor: technology must be driven by an innovation process that starts with vision and goals, and takes into account all the variables that shape the business model and processes of enterprises. 
• An interdisciplinary approach is needed to develop innovative business models, which to the various management issues also include the activation of specific teachings on environmental and social issues, developed in joint with the i. 
• The use of highly interactive working methodologies is necessary: cases and incidents from real-world companies will be used during the program, and students will have the opportunity to develop teamwork and presentation skills.

I thank you and your families for putting your trust in Bocconi University and choosing it as the place to embark on this important journey of growth and education. Studying at Bocconi does not only mean receiving a degree, nor does it mean just acquiring skills. It means entering fully into a community that shares aspirations and values. And it is precisely armed with these aspirations and values that you are now about to embark on your journey, and so I can only wish you a good start to this new and exciting phase of your lives.”

Lorenzo Pozza

Program Director of MSc in Business Administration and Law (CLELI)

“Over the next six months, you will discover three key things about your degree program. Firstly, you will understand the importance of interdisciplinarity: knowing a little about everything is often more beneficial than knowing hardly everything. Practice forges doctrine: it is through experience in the field that concepts learned are solidified. Finally, you will find that the real world has much more imagination than the virtual world: empirical cases are always ahead of what we can learn in books.

This year we celebrated the 20th year of the International Accounting Standards program with a collective toast.

A university education is always a starting point. May each student find in this experience their professional vocation, which they can then pursue and achieve in the broader path that will follow post-graduation.”

Justin Frosini

Program Director of the Bachelor in Global Law

"You will discover how much the BGL program is built for students and is constantly evolving. This Bachelor Degree offers myriad possibilities, truly listening to the wishes and dreams of its students and providing inspiring networking opportunities across all legal fields.

The international environment, with its diverse student background, pushes you to do your best and explore paths you were previously unaware of. At this university, there are no empty or useless days – every opportunity is valuable for growth in many ways.

One thing you absolutely must do is learn to seize the right opportunities – endless possibilities await, so take advantage of them! You absolutely must not compare yourself to others. Competition is only beneficial if it is healthy; remember, your peers are your colleagues and friends.

Adding to the unique experience, in class, we have a mascot! Kika, a very friendly little dog, is our classmate Catherine's pet. From time to time, Kika wanders around the chairs for everyone to stroke and pat, making our learning environment even more enjoyable."

Mariateresa Maggiolino 

Program Director of Law

“Over the next six months, you will discover three fundamental aspects of CLMG. Firstly, you will enter a world of powerful knowledge: CLMG opens the door to extraordinary technical knowledge, where learning the “rules of the game” means not only understanding how people and businesses behave, but also acquiring the tools to influence and guide these behaviors. Secondly, you will experience interactive and challenging lectures: at CLMG, classes are a dynamic and engaging experience. Learning how to engage with each other in an argumentative and effective manner is crucial to becoming capable jurists. Finally, you will find yourself in an environment of passion and sharing: CLMG offers an engaging and stimulating environment where male and female students share common interests and passions, creating a vibrant and supportive community.

You have five years to challenge yourself and fulfill your desires, because the best is yet to come!”

Graduation: Your Big Day

From the first days of classes to the endless nights of studying, your journey at Bocconi was truly extraordinary. The coffee-fueled marathons and friendships forged in the hallways made this experience unique. Think of the joy of discovering that your thesis needed no further revision, the panic turned into triumph during the last exam, and that group project that tested your patience but strengthened your bonds.

Those memories have accompanied you to this day, to the moment when you threw your hat in the air. Congratulations, you have made it! Today is your big day.