I nostri testimonials: Luke - Australia

Student of Water and Geological Risk Engineering 

"Padova has everything you could want in a city: great shops, lively bars and piazzas for a spritz, rich art, culture and history, delicious coffee, tennis courts, outdoor pools, and a very bike-friendly, accessible layout" 

About myself 

I'm originally from Adelaide, in southern Australia, and I've been living in Padova for almost a year. I previously worked as a water engineer and am now pursuing a master's degree in water engineering to deepen my understanding of rivers, floods, oceans, and coastal systems. I enjoy staying active — these days I'm swimming and playing tennis, and I love surfing and snowboarding whenever I get the chance to escape. In my free time, I like to read, play guitar, practice Italian, and enjoy a good macchiato.

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 Padova primarily because the course content was a perfect fit for me — the subjects and electives are both fascinating and highly relevant to working in the water resources field. I was also drawn to the university because of its ideal location and reputation, and for the chance to experience the Italian lifestyle. With both the beach and the mountains nearby, and easy access to the rest of Italy and Europe by train or plane, Padova is a great base for both studying and exploring.

What are the main features of your degree programme?

My course includes key subjects focused on river basins, flood modelling, fluvial systems, geomorphology, and coastal environments. The subjects are interconnected, and what you learn in one often supports and reinforces the others. We study through a mix of lectures, computer lab sessions, and field trips, which provide both theoretical understanding and practical experience.

Is there any class/subject that has stood out to you so far?

My favourite class has been Fluvial and Coastal Dynamics, where we explored how rivers are shaped, evolve, and interact with their surroundings, and how these processes influence coastal systems. The course also covered key topics in coastal management and sediment transport, and introduced concepts such as hydrological modelling, sediment dynamics, tide theory, wave theory, and ocean currents. It was both insightful and engaging, offering a comprehensive view of interconnected water systems.

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

The best advice I can give is to stay genuinely interested and passionate about what you're doing — and why you're doing it. Conviction and enthusiasm always come through, even in an application. So be excited, and let that excitement show.

What advice would you give to students thinking of studying in Italy?

Italy offers a fantastic lifestyle — it's easy-going, safe, and a very welcoming place to live. While learning Italian isn’t essential, even a little knowledge can greatly enhance your experience; a few words really go a long way. The country is incredibly well connected by fast trains and affordable flights, and every region has its own unique character. So get out there and explore!

How have you settled in? What does the city of Padua has to offer?

I’ve settled in well, though there were a few adjustments coming from life in Australia — mainly getting used to having dinner much later! Padova has everything you could want in a city: great shops, lively bars and piazzas for a spritz, rich art, culture and history, delicious coffee, tennis courts, outdoor pools, and a very bike-friendly, accessible layout.

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

When I’m not studying, I love to travel — either to other parts of Italy (you can get a train and be eating lunch in Rome or hiking the dolomites by lunchtime) or to nearby countries in Europe, like France for some waves. Otherwise, I enjoy spending time in Padova, soaking up the city’s atmosphere with a coffee or a spritz, shopping at the local farmers’ market, and wandering through the narrow streets of the centro storico.