I nostri testimonials: Rabea - Pakistan

Master’s student in Evolutionary Biology

"I was particularly attracted by the combination of academic excellence and an interdisciplinary nature of the programme. Italy, and Padua in particular, also appealed to me because of the university's international environment and strong support services for international students"

About myself 

I am a Master's student in Evolutionary Biology at the University of Padua, with a background in Zoology. I have a strong interest in understanding biological diversity through evolutionary processes, integrating theory with real biological examples. Before joining UNIPD, I developed a solid foundation in animal biology and research methods, which motivated me to pursue an interdisciplinary and research-oriented Master's programme. Studying at UNIPD has allowed me to grow academically in an international environment and further shape my future goals in research and higher education.

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

I chose the University of Padua because of its strong academic reputation, long scientific tradition, and the quality of its Evolutionary Biology programme. While researching Master’s programmes in Europe, UNIPD stood out for its interdisciplinary approach and for offering the programme entirely in English. I learned about the university through online research and the official UNIPD website, and I was particularly attracted by the combination of academic excellence and an interdisciplinary nature of the programme.
Italy, and Padua in particular, also appealed to me because of the university’s international environment and strong support services for international students. I felt that UNIPD offered the right balance between academic excellence, cultural richness, and opportunities for personal growth.

      What are the main features of your degree programme?   

The programme is highly interdisciplinary and integrates evolutionary theory with genetics, ecology, morphology, physiology, and biogeography.
One of the main strengths of the programme is the variety of courses and teaching approaches, including lectures, seminars, critical discussions of scientific papers, and exam formats that encourage analytical thinking rather than rote memorisation. The programme also places strong emphasis on understanding evolutionary processes through comparative and integrative methods.
The international classroom environment also enriches learning by bringing together students from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds.

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

Courses such as Evolutionary Theory, Biogeography, and Functional Morphology have stood out for their emphasis on critical thinking and real-world biological case studies. I especially appreciated courses that involved discussion of scientific papers, as they helped me improve my ability to read, interpret, and critically evaluate research literature, an essential skill for future research and academic work.

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

My main advice would be to carefully research the programme and clearly explain why it matches your academic background and future goals. I would also recommend preparing application documents early, paying close attention to deadlines and required materials. A well-written motivation letter that clearly explains your academic interests, curiosity, and long-term plans can make a strong difference.

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

Italy offers high-quality education combined with a rich cultural experience. Padua is a student-friendly city, affordable, well-connected, and very welcoming to international students.
My advice would be to stay open-minded and embrace both the academic and cultural aspects of studying here. Learning some basic Italian can also greatly help with daily life and integration. The university provides good support services for international students, which makes the transition easier.

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

When I’m not studying, I enjoy exploring Padua and nearby cities, spending time with friends, and discovering Italian culture and cuisine. Padua has a vibrant student atmosphere, with many cafés, cultural events, and green spaces where students can relax.
I also enjoy reading, walking around historical parts of the city, and taking short trips to other Italian cities whenever possible. These experiences have made my time at UNIPD not only academically rewarding but also personally enriching.