I nostri testimonials: Sadia - Pakistan

About myself 

I am a Master’s student in Clinical, Social, and Intercultural Psychology at the University of Padua. Before joining UNIPD, I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in Pakistan and gained valuable experience through clinical internships and educational support roles, which strengthened my interest in mental health and psychological wellbeing. Motivated to explore mental health from cultural and intercultural perspectives, I chose to pursue an international and research-oriented Master’s programme in Italy. Studying at UNIPD has provided me with the opportunity to deepen my understanding of psychology in a diverse academic environment, broaden my global perspective, and further shape my future goals in mental health and higher education.

Why did you choose the University of Padua and our degree programme in Clinical, Social and Intercultural Psychology? How did you learn about our institution? 

I chose the University of Padua because of its strong academic reputation, international environment, and the quality of education it offers in psychology. While researching universities abroad, I was particularly drawn to the Clinical, Social and Intercultural Psychology programme because it uniquely combines clinical psychology with cultural and social perspectives, which aligned perfectly with my academic interests and future goals. Having a background in psychology and clinical internships, I wanted a programme that would not only strengthen my theoretical understanding but also help me understand how culture, society, and life experiences shape mental health and wellbeing. I also appreciated that the programme encourages critical thinking, practical learning, and exposure to diverse perspectives, which I believe are essential in the field of psychology. Learning about the University of Padua and its long academic history, international recognition, and student-centered environment made me feel that it would be the right place for both my academic and personal growth

What are the main features of your degree programme?  

One of the things I appreciate most about my degree programme is how interdisciplinary and culturally informed it is. The programme does not only focus on clinical perspectives but also explores how social and cultural factors influence mental health, behavior, and psychological wellbeing. The courses encourage critical thinking, discussions, and practical understanding rather than only theoretical memorization, which makes learning much more engaging. I also value the diverse perspectives shared in class, as students come from different countries and backgrounds, making discussions richer and helping us better understand human behavior from global perspectives. The professors are highly knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely passionate about teaching, which creates a very positive learning environment. I particularly appreciate how the programme connects psychological theories to real-life situations, helping us build practical knowledge that can be meaningful in future professional settings.

How is your experience going? What aspects of our university’s culture or values have resonated with you the most? 

My experience at the University of Padua has been incredibly meaningful so far, both academically and personally. I genuinely appreciate the university’s emphasis on academic excellence, diversity, and student growth. One thing that has resonated with me the most is the welcoming and multicultural environment. Being surrounded by people from different cultures has broadened my perspective and taught me a lot, not only academically but also personally. I also admire how the university encourages independent thinking while still providing strong academic support. The teaching environment feels engaging and interactive, and I appreciate how professors encourage discussions and practical understanding of concepts. Beyond academics, studying here has helped me become more independent and confident. Adjusting to a new country and educational system was challenging at first, but over time I have learned to enjoy the process of growth and self-discovery that comes with stepping outside of your comfort zone.

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

Be completely genuine and intentional. When writing your personal statement, avoid generic templates or simply listing what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Instead, tell a personal story, connect your specific past experiences directly to why this particular programme aligns with your future vision. Take the time to thoroughly research the curriculum so you can articulate exactly how Padua's unique approach will serve your growth. Applying to university can sometimes feel stressful and uncertain, but trust your voice and stay confident in the value of your unique background. Every experience you have had so far matters and can become a meaningful part of your story

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

Studying in Italy has been a wonderful experience for me, and I would definitely encourage students to embrace it with an open mind. Moving to another country is a major transition, and while it can feel overwhelming in the beginning, it also teaches you so much about yourself. Coming from Pakistan, where family and social support are very strong, learning to manage everything independently was a big adjustment for me. From handling daily responsibilities to adapting to a different educational system and culture, there were challenges, but over time these experiences became opportunities for growth. My advice would be to stay open to new experiences, connect with people, and not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Italy offers an extraordinary blend of academic depth and rich lifestyle, and over time, the charming streets of Padua have truly come to feel like my second home.

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 spending time in ways that help me relax and recharge. I particularly enjoy visiting libraries, reading books, and spending quiet time in parks, especially because Padua has many peaceful places where you can simply sit, reflect, or enjoy nature. Sometimes I enjoy exploring different parts of the city, trying new cafés, or simply taking walks, which has become something I genuinely enjoy while living independently here. One of the things I appreciate as a student at the University of Padua is access to great study spaces and a supportive student environment. I also enjoy meaningful conversations with friends from different cultural backgrounds, as it has allowed me to learn so much beyond the classroom. For me, studying abroad has been about much more than academics—it has also been about personal growth, independence, and learning to enjoy my own company while discovering new experiences.