I nostri testimonials: Ilayda - Turchia

About myself 

I’m Ilayda, an international student from Turkey, currently pursuing a master’s degree in European and Global Studies. My academic interests include the reflections of political science theories within international relations with a strong focus on contemporary geopolitical challenges such as the complex interaction between the climate crisis and rising populism.

Why did you choose the University of Padua and our degree programme in European and Global Studies? How did you learn about our institution

During my undergraduate studies, I decided to specialize in international relations and developed a strong interest in academic research. It was important for me to choose a university with a strong research environment because my long-term goal is to pursue an academic career and a PhD. I first heard about the University of Padua from a friend in Turkey who spoke highly of its academic quality. As I researched it further, I was impressed by its strong academic tradition and reputation.

I chose the European and Global Studies programme because a Jean Monnet-supported course during my bachelor’s degree sparked my interest in policy-oriented analysis of contemporary challenges through the lens of European relations. My academic focus was already directed toward European studies. After reviewing the curriculum and faculty profiles, I found that the programme closely aligns with my academic goals.

 

What are the main features of your degree programme?  

The European and Global Studies programme is an interdisciplinary degree that brings history, philosophy, economics, political science, international relations, policy-making, and law together. This structure provides a comprehensive and holistic understanding of global issues. Especially the mandatory methodology course in the first semester significantly strengthens the programme’s research dimension.

The programme also offers different tracks that students can choose according to their interests. I personally selected the “Geopolitical Challenges” track in line with my interests. The courses in this track allow us to analyse complex contemporary issues such as political violence and extremism, security challenges, climate crises and social injustice from multiple perspectives.

I highly value the opportunity to learn from professors with diverse academic backgrounds. Engaging with them helps us develop field-specific analytical skills and gain a deeper understanding of how to conduct academic research in their fields. 

Perhaps the most enjoyable aspect of the programme is that our classroom often feels like a miniature United Nations. Every single person sitting at the same table comes from a different country sometimes and this is making our academic discussions much more vibrant and intense. I can confidently say that we are experiencing 'international relations' in the truest sense of the word!

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

I would describe my experience at the University of Padua as quite literally a unique journey. I use the word “unique” because of the particularly rich international environment here. I currently have many friends from different countries around the world and I am learning invaluable things from each of them. Spending time together has significantly broadened my understanding of different ways of life and greatly expanded my perspective. This is a natural part of studying abroad, of course, but the international environment offered by the University of Padua is truly exceptional. I can clearly feel how much I have personally changed and developed since the very first day I arrived here.

The university’s merit-based scholarships for international students reflect its strong international outlook. At the same time, I feel that the institution consistently provides strong support on a personal level as well. Both the International Office and the SPGI International Desk have been closely involved in every step of my experience so far and none of my questions have ever been unanswered. Moving to a foreign country is challenging mostly because of uncertainty. Different bureaucratic procedures and waiting times can sometimes be exhausting. Whenever I have expressed any concern, I have always received quick and solution-oriented responses from the University. They have offered guidance even beyond the scope of their direct responsibilities and have always shown understanding and willingness to help for anything possible. I can confidently say that the institution does its best to support its students.

Studying in such a supportive environment has been highly motivating for me academically. Also the fact that the university remains supportive and responsive to students’ needs has made a real difference in my daily life as an international student. I only fully understood how important this kind of institutional support is after experiencing it myself and I can now clearly see its positive effect on my overall experience.

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

The most important advice I would give to prospective students is to give sufficient time and effort to their motivation letters. The factors that make an application stand out vary from one department to another, of course. But speaking specifically about the European and Global Studies programme, I would say that the motivation letter is one of the most important components of the application.

There are a few points that deserve particular attention when writing a motivation letter. Perhaps the most important one is to avoid using excessively complex language to appear impressive. The primary focus should be on the genuine motivation behind applying to the programme. A clear and honest writing style combined with a sincere explanation of one's academic interest and personal motivation is far more valuable than fancy wording.

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

One of the most valuable things I have learned while living in Italy is the true meaning behind the famous Italian saying, 'mangia bene, vivi meglio' (eat well, live better). I absolutely love the food culture here, especially l'aperitivo. It perfectly aligns with my practical approach to daily life, allowing me to socialize and enjoy the vibrant local lifestyle. I admire how eating and drinking in Italy are not just about consumption but also about creating connections and quality time with others.

Therefore, my biggest advice to students thinking of studying in Italy is to actively engage with this social culture. I also recommend learning some basic Italian. Before moving to Italy, I had some time to learn everyday Italian phrases and I found that even a small effort warms people up to you here. Engaging with the social and local life makes settling in much easier and truly transforms a foreign city into your second home. 

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

One of the things I enjoy most in life is traveling. In this regard, Padua's location makes me feel very fortunate. I also live close to the train station and this situation makes traveling even more convenient for me. Wonderful cities such as Venice, Verona, Bologna are easily accessible for day trips. Beyond these well-known destinations I have also discovered many beautiful places throughout the Veneto region. Whenever possible, I dedicate my weekends to exploring nearby locations.

Apart from traveling, I enjoy going for walks. Padua is a very walkable city. I also enjoy discovering new cafés, restaurants, and local spots with friends.