Twenty years ago, Leslie Strazzullo, a marketing professional with an MBA from the University of South Carolina, made the decision to leave the greater Boston area and pursue a job opportunity in Milan, Italy. Despite only knowing a few people in the city, she felt excited about the new opportunity and has called Milan her home ever since. Strazzullo fell in love with the culture, history, design, fashion, and food of Italy, but also navigated the unique challenges that come with living there, including bureaucratic hurdles, layoffs, and finding a community.
One of the most important lessons Strazzullo learned during her time in Italy was to go with the flow and not let administrative and bureaucratic issues overwhelm her. She emphasized the need to adapt and take these challenges in stride, whether it was dealing with transportation strikes or navigating complex government processes to obtain necessary documentation. By learning to be patient and flexible, Strazzullo was able to overcome these obstacles and make a life for herself in Italy.
After facing a setback when her company sold her division and she was laid off, Strazzullo demonstrated determination and resilience in finding a new job. As a foreigner in Italy, she relied on strategic networking and perseverance to secure a position with a U.S. multinational company. Through her experience, Strazzullo learned the importance of betting on herself and her life in Italy, even when faced with uncertainty and time constraints on her residence work permit.
Another important lesson Strazzullo learned was how to work differently in Italy, embracing change and adapting to the local customs and practices. She discovered the value of networking over meals with colleagues and the significance of social interactions in the workplace. By adjusting her mindset and being open to new ways of working, Strazzullo was able to thrive in her career in Milan.
Financially, Strazzullo had to make adjustments to her budget to accommodate unexpected expenses and navigate tax obligations as an American living abroad. She sought the assistance of an accountant to help manage her taxes and ensure compliance with both Italian and U.S. regulations. Despite facing higher tax rates in Italy, Strazzullo appreciated the benefits of the public healthcare system and supplementary private insurance provided by many companies, allowing her to reallocate funds for other needs and leisure activities.
Overall, Strazzullo expressed gratitude for stepping out of her comfort zone and building a life in Italy, which has allowed her to travel, meet new people, and advance her career. She encouraged others to embrace change, take risks, and adapt to different cultures and work environments to achieve personal and professional growth. Through her experiences, Strazzullo demonstrated resilience, determination, and a positive attitude towards overcoming challenges and building a fulfilling life in a foreign country.
