My name is: Miney

I'm studying: History & Italian at Exeter

For my year abroad I went to: Ferrara, Italy, for 11 months

While I was there I: Studied at the university.

Five words to describe my year away are: Incredible, unforgettable, relaxing, challenging, fun-filled.

My top tips for anyone going there are: Don't be afraid to speak Italian - the locals and the students (especially the boys) are so welcoming and love meeting English people. Everybody rides bikes so definitely invest in a
two-wheeled friend and a trusty lock. The residents are quite traditional and we learnt quickly that short skirts and sky-high heels don't go down well, and earn you some very odd looks.

The cleverest people find accommodation: Online - easystanza.it.

Don't leave without: Mosquito repellent, a camera, having a farewell party.

The best night out is: In the piazza - drumming, dancing, drinking spritz.

When your parents visit: Cycle round the walls of the city, and eat at Cusina&Butega.

My favourite lunch place: The piadina bus in the market place.

My best place for a hot date: The oldest bar in Europe, Brindisi, for drinks.

On a Sunday: Sunbathe all day and buy a gelato from K2 gelateria.

The most useful website I found was: thirdyearabroad.com.

If you want to fit in quickly, you should: Buy a bike!