I nostri testimonials: Syed Qamar - Pakistan
Student of Water and Geological Risk Engineering
"I was particularly impressed by the multidisciplinary nature of the course"
About myself
I am Syed Qamar Hasnain from Pakistan. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from NED University. Currently, I am pursing my Master's degree in Water and Geological Risk Engineering at UNIPD. I worked as Design Engineer in Pakistan, where I was responsible for the designing of wet utilities. Now, as a student of UNIPD, I am particularly passionate about the field of hydrology. Besides academics, I love travelling and discovering the hidden gems of the world.
I live by the belief: "Climb mountains not so the world can see you, but so you can see the world."
Why did you choose the University of Padua and the Water and Geological Risk Engineering degree programme? How did you learn about our institution?
I chose the University of Padua and the Water and Geological Risk Engineering programme due to the University’s excellent reputation and my deep interest in water resources. During my bachelor’s studies, I gained experience in hydrological modelling using HEC-HMS, map creation with ArcGIS Pro, and hydraulic simulations with HEC-RAS. These experiences sparked a strong passion for hydrology and water-related risk management. While searching for master’s programmes focused specifically on water and geotechnical engineering, I came across the University of Padua. I was particularly impressed by the multidisciplinary nature of the course, which covers hydrology, hydraulics, geology, and risk assessment, precisely the subjects I am most passionate about.
What are the main features of your degree programme?
The Water and Geological Risk Engineering (WGRE) Master Programme is an interdisciplinary, English-taught degree that focuses on addressing water-induced hazards like floods, landslides, droughts and key challenges in a changing climate. It equips students with advanced technical skills in remote sensing, environmental modelling, and big-data analysis, along with a strong theoretical foundation in climate science and risk analysis.
Is there any class/subject that has stood out to you so far?
The professors are incredibly supportive and approachable, creating a fun and relaxed learning environment. One aspect that truly sets WGRE apart is its strong emphasis on field-based education. It has been invaluable to visit various sites and witness theoretical concepts applied in real-world contexts.
What advice would you give to prospective students when it comes to preparing a successful application?
The advice I would give to prospective students is to work on their profile before applying. Your Letter of Motivation, CV, English proficiency score, and previous academic grades are all crucial for securing a scholarship. As a scholarship recipient, I recommend being prepared after submitting your application to WGRE, as you might receive an email inviting you to a merit-based scholarship interview. If you’re passionate about addressing challenges related to water and geological risks in a changing climate, join the WGRE programme at the University of Padua, Italy.
What advice would you give to students thinking of studying in Italy?
If you're coming to study in Italy, especially in Rovigo, it's helpful to learn some basic Italian. Simple phrases can make a big difference in connecting with locals. Try local food like pizza, pasta and tiramisu. They are amazing. Life in Italy offers you the possibility to explore other EU countries as well, since travel is affordable and there are many sightseeing opportunities within Italy itself.
What do you do when you’re not studying? How do you like to spend your free time?
During my leisure time, I go out for a walk, reading books, hanging out with classmates, and visiting nearby cities especially Venice to enjoy the beauty of nature.