Where are you studying in Italy, and what motivated you to pursue a PhD?
I am currently pursuing my PhD at IUSS Pavia. My primary motivation has been the desire to contribute to improving food production systems, particularly in regions affected by food scarcity. I wanted my research to have a tangible, real-world impact, especially in addressing challenges faced by food-deficit areas.
Where did you go for your period abroad, how long did you stay, and why did you choose that destination? Please give a short description.
I spent my research period abroad at Aarhus University, specifically at the Foulum research campus. I chose this destination because it hosts several globally recognized crop modelling experts. I worked under Prof. Davide Cammarano. It was an excellent opportunity to engage directly with leading researchers in my field and to deepen my technical and scientific expertise.
What were your first impressions of the university, your supervisor, and the research team? Did you feel integrated into the group?
I think words alone are not enough to describe the environment at Foulum. The whole climate and water section was welcoming from the outset, both professionally and socially. Within the first few days, I felt fully integrated and part of the group. Formally I had good interaction in the field, offices, daily coffee breaks, elevator talks and the very missed Friday bread sessions. Informally the many activities (trips, weekend plans and wholesome dinners ) helped me build strong interpersonal connections.
Did you face any challenges during your time abroad? If yes, what were they, and how did you address them? What practical advice would you give to future students especially about administration, funding, or country specific opportunities?
I did not encounter significant challenges during my stay. I would strongly advise future students that need requiring visas to begin administrative procedures as early as possible.
What are your plans after returning to Italy? Did your time abroad enrich your research and personal growth? Do you feel you contributed meaningfully to your host university, and in what ways?
My time abroad was valuable both academically and personally. It enriched my research by allowing me to participate in fieldwork activities, which provided practical insights that complemented my theoretical work. While my contribution may have been modest, I believe my involvement in field activities and collaboration with the team added value to the host institution.
What aspects of the local culture stood out to you whether something you loved or found challenging? Did you have a favourite place to spend your time, and how did you make the most of your free time?
I particularly appreciated the strong sense of community within the research environment. Much of my free time was spent participating in group activities such as trips, barbecues, and home-prepared dinners. These moments not only helped me unwind but also strengthened my relationships with colleagues and made my experience abroad more meaningful.
I set myself three personal goals during my stay: to learn how to swim, to visit Legoland Billund, and to try the traditional Danish dish stegt flæsk og persillesovs. While I did not fully achieve my goal of learning to swim, I did make some progress. I’m especially grateful to Lars Uldall-Jessen for preparing such a memorable and delicious stegt flæsk og persillesovs, which was a highlight of my cultural experience.