When Marisolefirst joked withher parents about graduating in England, theydismissed the idea. “A Levels won’t be accepted,” they said. Yet whatbegan as a playfulcomment soon became a life-changingdecision.Today, Marisole is back at ItchenCollegefor a secondyear, feeling, inher own words, “really motivated” and ready to pursue her dream of studyingFashion Management at university.
Her journey wasn’t straightforward.During her exchange year at Itchen, Marisole thrived.She loved the teaching,the freedom of theUK system, and thefriendships she formed. By January 2025, she confessed to her hostfamily that she didn’t wantto returnto Italy.
But her Italianteachersdiscouragedher, insistingshe should finish her studiesat home.
The turningpointcame when her father, frustrated withthe rigidity of the Italiansystem, decidedthe UK was thebetteroption.
Itchenwelcomedher returnwithopen arms—teacherswere “delighted” to have her back, while her friends cheeredher on from afar
“A Levelsare acceptedworldwide,” Marisole comments.
“So when we discovered that, staying at ItchenCollege Marisole also showed determinationbeyond the Classroom. For her 18th birthday, she returnedto Italy Puttinginlong hours as a waiterto helpher parents pay for her tuition.
was a no-brainer!”
“I’m an adult now, passion. “ The experiencetaughther discipline,timemanagement, and resilience studies.
Back in Southampton, she already feelsat home. She’s made Englishfriends, thoughshe admitsto momentsof nostalgiafor her first thisnew chapterwillbe just as fullof memories and laughter.
Her goals are clear: Plan A is FashionManagement at a university in Paris, Plan B thesame course in Milan.She knows her three
A Levelswill open doors across Europe, andwithher ambition, adaptability,and creativedrive, thereis littledoubt she’ll succeed—whereverfashion takes her. experiencewithVicky’s family. Forming a deep bond within
Marisole’s story is one of courage, independence,and followingher instincts.What began as a joke has become a bold new reality:carvingout her future, onestitchat a time.
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