I nostri testimonials: Aminur - Bangladesh

About myself 

Hi! I am Aminur Rahman Antim, and I am from Bangladesh. Currently, I am living in Padova, Italy, and pursuing my Master's degree in Human Rights and Multi-level Governance at the University of Padova. Before joining here, I completed my Bachelor's degree in Law, where I gained both academic knowledge and practical field experience. This motivated me to pursue advanced studies in human rights, governance, and international affairs. 

At UniPD, I have been able to broaden my perspective through an interdisciplinary approach that brings together law, political science, economics, and international relations. My legal background has also enabled me to engage more confidently with many of the topics covered in the programme.

I am passionate about understanding how legal and governance systems can promote human rights and social justice. Through my studies, I hope to build a strong professional foundation and contribute to positive change in society.

Why did you choose the University of Padua and our degree programme in Human Rights and Multi-level Governance? How did you learn about our institution? 

I chose the University of Padua because of its strong academic reputation, long history, and international environment. When I was searching for master's programmes related to human rights and governance, I found that the Human Rights and Multi-level Governance programme at the University of Padova matched my academic background and future career goals very well. I also discovered that the Faculty of Political Science, Law, and International Studies and related disciplines have a history of over 100 years, which reflects its deep academic heritage and commitment to quality education. I learned about the University of Padua while researching well-established universities in Europe that offer strong academic and research opportunities in the field of human rights and governance.

What are the main features of your degree programme?  

The main features of my degree programme are its interdisciplinary approach and strong international focus. The programme combines law, political science, economics, and international relations to provide a comprehensive understanding of human rights and governance at the local, national, and global levels. It also includes an internship, which provides valuable practical experience, and a research-based thesis that allows students to explore a topic of their interest in depth.

How has your experience been so far? What aspects of our university’s culture or values have resonated with you the most? 

Very positive and enriching. I have felt welcomed into an academic environment that is both international and intellectually engaging. The way classes are conducted encourages us to think critically and share different viewpoints, rather than just focusing on theory. As I joined UniPD a bit later, I initially had to catch up with study materials, but the support from professors, available resources, and class recordings made the transition much smoother.

What resonates with me the most is the supportive and responsive culture of the University of Padova. Whenever I face any issue, it is addressed quickly and efficiently by both the teachers and administrative staff, who are very approachable and helpful. The university also values student feedback, which makes the overall academic experience smoother and less stressful for students.

What advice would you give to prospective students when it comes to preparing a successful application? 

My main advice would be to carefully understand the programme and clearly align the motivation with it. A strong application should show not only academic background, but also genuine interest in the field and how the programme fits future goals. It is also important to highlight relevant experiences, whether academic or practical, and explain how they have shaped the interest. Finally, taking time to write a clear and well-structured motivation statement that reflects both purpose and commitment can make a strong difference.

What advice would you give to students thinking of studying in Italy? How have you settled in here?  

For students thinking about studying in Italy, I would suggest being ready for both academic and cultural adjustment. The teaching style is often more discussion-based and requires independent thinking, so it helps to stay consistent with studies from the beginning and not hesitate to ask questions when needed. It is also important to be open to a different culture, lifestyle, and food, as adapting to these changes is part of the experience.

From my own experience in Padova, the settling-in process was gradual but smooth. At first, everything felt new, especially being away from my family and adjusting to a different culture and daily routine. Over time, I became familiar with the academic system and local lifestyle. Interacting with classmates from different countries, exploring the city, and building a daily routine helped me feel more comfortable and connected here.

One thing I would like to mention for Bangladeshi students is that if they miss food from home, there is no need to worry. There are many Bangladeshi restaurants in Padova, Italy where they can enjoy authentic Bangladeshi cuisine. And if someone enjoys cooking, preparing Bangladeshi food at home is another great way to stay connected to home.

What do you like to do when you are not studying? How do you like to spend your free time? 

In my free time, I enjoy watching thriller movies and listening to music, as it helps me relax after studies. I also like walking around the city and spending time in parks and restaurants with my Bangladeshi and international friends, which keeps my mind fresh and cheerful, helps me stay socially connected, and maintains a good balance in my daily life.