Hello! I am Nguyen Thuc An, currently pursuing my master’s degree in “Sustainable Chemistry and Technologies for Circular Economy” at the prestigious University of Padova, which celebrated its 800th anniversary last year in 2022.
At a certain point in life, it became evident to me that humanity must transform its approach to production and consumption to safeguard our planet from becoming uninhabitable. Given my keen interest in sustainability, the master’s program offered by the Chemistry department, focusing on the concept of circular economy, immediately appealed to me. Simultaneously, the opportunity to apply for the Invest Your Talent scholarship, offered by the Italy Ministry of Foreign Affairs, presented itself in spring 2021, and by September of the same year, I embarked on my educational journey in Padova.
My experience in Padova over the past two years has been nothing short of amazing. One of the highlights is the diverse community of classmates and professors. The program consists of both international and Italian students, resulting in a fascinating blend of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. As international students, we bring our unique perspectives, while the Italian students share their rich heritage and way of life.
One aspect I particularly appreciate about my study program is its interdisciplinary nature. It encompasses a wide range of subjects, such as Chemistry, Economy, Law, Biology, Management, and more, which provides me with a holistic understanding of sustainable practices and circular economy principles. The program’s director has been instrumental in assisting us with career preparation, actively connecting us with external companies and organizations to create internship opportunities, summer school programs, and enriching field trips.
Beyond academics, social life in Padova has been delightful. Among my favorite pastimes after classes is enjoying aperitivo with friends. This tradition typically involves savoring a spritz, a popular alcoholic beverage from the Veneto region, accompanied by chips or delightful Venetian “cicchetti” – toasted bread with various toppings. Additionally, we frequently organize day trips to nearby cities like the enchanting Venice, the picturesque Bassano del Grappa in the mountains, or the romantic Verona. The mesmerizing Italian landscape, architectural wonders, and rich cultural heritage were key reasons that drew me to study here.
Overall, my journey in Padova has been incredibly enriching, both academically and socially. I feel grateful for the opportunity to be part of this dynamic community and to experience life in this beautiful city while furthering my passion for sustainable chemistry and circular economy technologies.
NGUYEN THUC AN
Vietnamese alumnus at the University of Padua, Italy
Invest Your Talent scholarship in 2021
