I nostri testimonials: Kamilya - Kazakistan

About myself 

I am a second-year Psychological Science student from Astana, Kazakhstan. I have always considered myself an empathetic person, and together with my desire to help others, this is what led me to the field of psychology. The more I study it, the more I realize how interesting and meaningful this field is to me. Outside of my studies, I love animals and enjoy spending time with them. I also like walking around the city with music in my headphones, as it helps me relax, clear my mind, and notice the little details around me.

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

I wanted to study in Italy because I have always been interested in the country and its culture. When I started looking for Psychology programmes, the University of Padua quickly became my first choice. I learned that it is one of the leading universities in this field, which immediately caught my attention. After reading more about the Psychological Studies programme, I became even more interested because I found many subjects that matched my interests and expectations. The programme seemed to offer exactly what I was looking for in a Psychology degree. I first learned about the University of Padua through online research while exploring study opportunities in Italy. In addition, I found out that some of my friends were also interested in applying, which made the whole application process more enjoyable and motivating. However, my main reason for choosing the University of Padua is its strong reputation and the quality of its Psychology programme.

What are the main features of your degree programme?  

One of the main features of the Psychological Studies programme is its multidisciplinary approach to psychology. The programme covers different areas of the field, including cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology, providing students with a broad understanding of human behaviour and mental processes. 

Another important feature is the strong scientific foundation of the programme. I appreciate that it includes research methods and statistics, as these skills are essential for understanding psychological research and developing critical thinking. 

The programme helps students understand both the biological foundations of behaviour and the social and developmental factors that influence people throughout their lives.

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

Over the past two years, studying at the University of Padua has been a valuable and enriching experience both academically and personally. I have had the opportunity to explore different areas of psychology, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and grow as a student.

One aspect of the university that resonates with me the most is its international environment. Studying alongside people from different countries and cultures has allowed me to broaden my perspective and learn from experiences different from my own.

I also appreciate the value that the university places on academic freedom. Students are encouraged to ask questions, express their ideas, and approach topics from different perspectives, which creates an open and stimulating learning environment.

What advice would you give to prospective students when it comes to preparing for the entry test? 

My main advice would be not to panic and to start preparing in advance. The entry test can seem stressful at first, but with consistent preparation it becomes much more manageable. I would also encourage prospective students to stay organized and create a realistic study plan instead of leaving everything until the last moment. Even small amounts of preparation done regularly can make a big difference. Most importantly, believe in yourself. It is easy to underestimate your abilities when preparing for an important exam, but confidence and a calm attitude can be just as important as knowledge on the test day.

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

I strongly recommend you start looking for accommodation as early as possible. As the beginning of the academic year approaches, the number of incoming students increases significantly, and finding suitable housing can become quite challenging.

I would also recommend connecting with other students who are going through the same experience. Moving to a new country and adapting to a new environment can feel overwhelming at times, so having someone to share the process with can make a big difference. In my case, I moved to Italy with a friend, and we went through all the stages of relocating and settling into the city together. Having someone by my side made the transition much easier and less stressful. It also helped me feel less lonely during the first months, when everything was new and unfamiliar.

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

When I am not studying, I enjoy travelling, reading books, and drawing. I like exploring new places, whether it is a new city, a different region of Italy, or another country. Reading and drawing are also hobbies that help me relax and recharge after busy academic periods. During the warmer periods, especially in late spring, summer, and early September, I enjoy spending time at the beach. One thing I particularly appreciate about studying in Padua is its proximity to Venice and the coast, which makes beach trips both convenient and accessible.  as an international student in Italy.