Our testimonials: Santa
Our testimonials: Santa
Meet Santa from Madagascar
Student of the Master's degree in Water and Geological Risk Engineering
"Do not just show up for class and come home. Become informed. Visit the city, purchase a bus ticket, and explore! You can do this even on a tight budget, I assure you: if you have an open mind and seek for opportunities, you'll be rewarded with pleasant surprises."
About myself
My name is Santa, and I am currently working toward an MSC in Water and Geological Risk Engineering. I have always been striving for high quality education which is what motivated me to choose the University of Padua: I particularly admire its dedication to academic excellence and the plethora of resources and opportunities it offers.And I made the right choice! I was recently presented with the chance to attend an international summer school on climate change in the coastal zone. I have also been given reliable tools and a theoretical foundation from outstanding professors, which has sparked a profound appreciation for the nuances and a sense of amazement in the transformative power of education. In addition, Padova’s extraordinarily rich historical, cultural, and artistic heritage, as well as its fantastic location, allowed me to fully indulge in my passions, including traveling and photography.
What advice would you give to students wishing to study abroad?
Many people find it difficult to leave the comfort of their own hometown, thus moving to another country is a major step for them. But the University of Padova makes it simple by welcoming its international students with warmth and comfort, supporting them at every step of the way. It is truly a melting pot for cultures given the sizable number of international students that come from various countries. Interacting with so many people and learning about their cultures is an exciting experience. Here are some tips to help you feel less intimidated about studying abroad:
Research and Plan ahead:
By making careful preparations, you may easily prevent unneeded stress associated with the move abroad process. This entails conducting in-depth research on all aspects of the country you wish to visit in order to know what to expect. That covers the necessary paperwork, housing, weather, food, law, culture, and customs, among other things. After that, be sure to make a checklist as it will help you stay organised. Do not forget to book your flight ticket early on and arrange your accomodation beforehand as well.
Get out of your comfort zone
Learning the local language and making new friends are two of the best ways to enjoy a new location. Even though it might be more comfortable to stay home, force yourself to schedule social activities with locals or your fellow students and persevere through them. You will benefit from the effort. Do not just show up for class and go back home. Become informed. Visit the city, purchase a bus ticket, and explore! You can do this even on a tight budget, I assure you: if you have an open mind and seek for opportunities, you’ll be rewarded with pleasant surprises.
All in all, you have the opportunity to study abroad. Don’t pass up the chances that come your way! Live in the moment, be yourself, and keep an open mind at all times.
What was your first impression once arrived in Padua
TAs soon as I landed in Venice and took the coach to Padova, I knew it was the perfect city for me. It is such a charming city without the overwhelming and frantic feel of a huge metropolis. It is diverse, rich in culture, art, gastronomy, and sights. The historic street in Padua will never become boring. After a long day of class, hopping on your bike and heading out for an aperitivo with your friends is certainly an experience to write home about. Additionally, location-wise it is gold! In less than an hour, you may be in the Alps, Bologna, Verona, or Venice. It is also a student-centred city with a large international community and an inspiring environment that will motivate and help you grow as a student.
Why studying engineering in Padua?
Speaking of education, the University of Padua is one of Europe’s oldest and most renowned universities. The practicality and relevancy of the offered curriculum continue to astound me; it is so carefully planned and balanced. Additionally, they give you the option to tailor the curriculum to suit your preferences and objectives. Despite the difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the institution was able to assist new students with remote context in their integration and ensure that everyone had the opportunity to connect, receive a top-notch education, and form new friendships. Moreover, I am always inspired by people’s enthusiasm for research, engineering, and taking action. It’s a thrilling experience to explore all the amazing opportunities on campus every day. The academic-staff is outstandingly collaborative. I would not be the student I am today if it weren’t for their ongoing support. I am so grateful that my time at the University of Padua has led me on a journey that I never would have imagined.
You study in the Rovigo campus: how is life there?
The Rovigo campus is great with modern facilities and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
The campus is equipped with cutting-edge technology, providing students with some of the latest tools for learning and collaborating. And when you need a quiet space to study, the study rooms are perfect with plenty of seating and outlets for your devices.
But it's not all work and no play in Rovigo. In fact, one of the most enjoyable aspects of the campus is the common room, where you can unwind and hang out with your peers. You can grab a cup of coffee from the vending machine and even challenge your friends to a game of foosball. It's the ideal place to recharge between classes.
And let's not forget about the location. Rovigo is a charming city, away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, and conveniently located just an hour away by train from Padova, Bologna, or Venice. You'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the local museums, sights, churches, and markets, and indulge in regional delicacies.
All in all, if you're considering a degree program at the Rovigo campus, I highly recommend it. You'll experience a perfect blend of academic rigor, social opportunities, and peace, making it an excellent place to study.
MEET OUR TESTIMONIALS
Many students shared their experiences at the University of Padua.
Find out their stories!