I have taken three courses so far, namely Digital Sociology; Communication Practices, Diversity, and Inclusion; and Sound Design and Music Technology. Digital Sociology taught me about society, the study of culture, and research methods in the digital arena. The course Communication Practice, Diversity, and Inclusion is filled with interactive learning experiences comprising classroom lectures, seminars, group activities, and presentations that have involved international European projects and various universities across Europe. In this course, experts from the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), Permanent Conference of Mediterranean Audiovisual Operators (COPEAM), European Women’s Lobby, and professionals who are currently coordinating the upcoming European parliamentarian election have given us real-world experience, showcase their project initiatives that have allowed us to delve deep into real-world communication practice.

When I embarked on my journey to Italy, I received an email from a good friend of mine. I read it enthusiastically as follows: “Italy is considered to be one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, and rightfully so. The beauty of the architecture, the landscape, the food, and the way of life are enjoyable. People are loud, emotional, and outreaching, and you’d better be prepared for that. I am sure, you will enjoy it after a while, since it expresses a good taste of life in all its shades. Upon your arrival, you will immediately find out what real Italian espresso tastes like, it is a bit different from the Ethiopian version, except for the one offered at Tomoca Coffee near Piazza-area in Addis Ababa, you still remember? The weather will suit you because, during the summer months, it is hot like in Ethiopia. Padua is a small and peaceful town, conveniently located to reach out to such famous locations as Venice or Florence, which I strongly recommend visiting. There are quite several reductions and organized travel tours, especially for students, also organised by the university you will be studying at”. I was extremely thrilled to get off the airplane, and I wish to this day that my stay in Italy would be like “my paid annual leave for six months twice a year” so that I can travel across the county. Moreover, the university campuses are spread across the city in ancient buildings that should remain as a museum for generations to come. You will find lecture halls and administration offices in majestic buildings; the detailed architectural design is breathtaking, and various destinations in the country fill you with marvels, and leave you wondering how they could build such astounding cities without advanced technologies or AI. When you come to Italy, beyond being marveled, you will refresh, reset, get your degrees thanks to your efforts and very collaborative professors, and march on to your professional career with boosted energy. Padova should be your choice – because it is going to be your home.

During my spare time, Padova is home. You can find me exploring, walking, and hiking. Asking questions about history and discovering the philosophers and the scientists who have influenced the world with their views, critical thinking, exploration, and scientific discovery to this day. Among the uncountable ones, It is incredible to attend a university where Galileo Galilei (1564 – 1642) a natural philosopher, astronomer, and mathematician who has made fundamental contributions to the sciences of motion, astronomy, the scientific method, the law of falling bodies, and parabolic trajectories, has taught. Or where you see the world’s first permanent anatomical theatre used to study the human body that has marked a definitive shift in medical education and which was inaugurated in 1595. Yet, for those who crave knowledge, who would like to have a broader understanding in life, and who like to be fascinated by humanities, social, and natural sciences, indeed the University of Padova is home.