I chose the University of Padua and the Cybersecurity degree programme because the course structure closely aligns with my academic interests and career goals. My journey into cybersecurity started during my time working as a web developer. As I gained more experience, I became increasingly interested in the security aspects of web applications. This curiosity eventually grew into a strong passion for cybersecurity, leading me to seek a master's programme that could deepen my knowledge in this field.
The subjects offered in the Cybersecurity programme at the University of Padua perfectly match the areas I am eager to explore, such as network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking. I believe this programme will equip me with both the theoretical understanding and practical skills needed to succeed in the fast-evolving cybersecurity industry.
When it came to choosing a university, the University of Padua stood out for several reasons. Its rich history, reputation for academic excellence, and association with some of the world’s most renowned scientists made it an obvious choice. Receiving the Excellence Scholarship from the University was also a huge factor — it felt like a recognition of my hard work during my bachelor's studies and further motivated me to join such a prestigious institution.

The main features of my MSc Cybersecurity programme include a strong focus on core areas like network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, information security, law and data. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills through labs, projects, and case studies. It also connects students with research opportunities and industry collaborations, preparing us for both technical and leadership roles in cybersecurity.

I have really enjoyed the practical labs in this programme. Unlike outdated systems where you have to code everything from scratch, the labs here allow you to focus on the main concepts and work at your own pace, making the learning experience much more effective and enjoyable.
I have also appreciated the exam patterns set by the professors. The exams are thoughtfully designed to test your understanding and knowledge rather than just memorization, which makes studying more meaningful.
Another highlight has been the seminars on different cybersecurity topics, which offer valuable insights into current industry trends and research areas.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this programme to other students who are genuinely interested in cybersecurity. It offers a strong mix of practical skills, updated content, and a supportive learning environment.

My advice to potential students would be to face your fears and start the process as early as possible. It might feel overwhelming at first — with applications, paperwork, and the idea of moving abroad — but once you take the first step, everything starts falling into place.
Living in Italy is an amazing experience. Besides the quality education, there's so much to explore — from beautiful historical sites to fun getaways and vibrant local culture. Italy offers a perfect balance between studies and lifestyle. You get to immerse yourself in rich traditions, art, food, and nature while pursuing your academic goals.
If you are thinking about studying here, trust yourself and take the leap. It’s a life-changing experience that’s definitely worth it!

My experience in Padua so far has been really good. It’s a beautiful and small city, which makes it very easy and comfortable to live in. I love how accessible everything is — whether it's buses, trams, or trains, getting around is simple and efficient.
Although I would have enjoyed it even more if there were more tourist attractions within the city itself, I still find Padua a very peaceful and welcoming place. The small size of the city also makes it feel safe and easy to settle into everyday life.
One of my favorite things here is the amazing coffee and ice cream — they are truly something special! However, the local food is not very spicy, which is something I miss sometimes as I prefer more flavorful dishes. I don’t eat out often except for a few favorite spots.
Overall, settling in has been smooth, and I’m really enjoying my life here outside of university as well.