Hamayun Shabir is a Student Ambassador from Kashmir, India, studying International Horticultural Sciences in his second year at the University of Bologna.
Published on 26 May 2025 | Asia
I am Hamayun Shabir, currently pursuing an International Master’s in Horticultural Sciences at UNIBO. I come from Kashmir, called “heaven on earth” for its majestic snowcapped mountains, gushing rivers, serene landscapes, and heart-warming people.
Choosing Italy as my destination for my master’s was backed by several factors that pushed me to begin this journey. It all started with the dominant presence of Italian apple trees in Kashmir and their appreciation by local farmers, which led me to further investigate the reason. Discovering the quality of Italian trees and the level of management further fuelled my vision to learn from Italy itself and bridge the gap. Being passionate, with a strong vision for Kashmir , a horticultural state, always keeps me motivated to learn, connect, and introduce new practices back home.
So, I started researching the best agricultural universities in Italy. I came across the University of Padua, Milan, and Naples, but Bologna was the best fit for my vision and passion, due to its ranking and its status as one of the oldest universities. This marked the beginning of my professional career , selecting the course International Master’s in Horticultural Sciences and preparing the documentation to apply. The application procedure is quite easy and well managed. If you have the right qualifications, firm dreams, and passion, you will not be disappointed by the University admission committee.
My degree programme brings people from all over the world into one classroom, making it highly diverse, with students from different cultures, regions, and experiences. We had many field visits and experiential tours, which made the programme highly interesting. The best activity I’ll remember is the Urban Farm Challenge held in 2024 under the Urban Farming course by Prof. Francesco Orsini, where we received a scholarship to travel to Sweden and participate in a challenge focused on urban farming.
I also travelled to London, Kaunas, and Miami during my Master’s to present at international conferences. I had more chances to spend time with Prof. Francesco Orsini during our educational visit to Sweden. He is very helpful and dynamic. UNIBO provides a diverse and dynamic education that not only elevates your professional career but also your overall life experience. My first impressions of Bologna were its busy streets, the energy of young people, food everywhere, and amazing architecture. Sunny spring days, blooming flowers, a happy environment, and engaging university classes made the experience even more memorable. I used the university library often, as it offers the perfect environment to focus and study, being both well-equipped and peaceful.
Although I didn’t attend formal Italian language classes, I learned some Italian through my Italian friends. "Ciao" was the first word I always heard when meeting people.
I was fortunate to receive ER.GO accommodation, which turned out to be one of the best things during my time in Bologna. Living in a single room with excellent facilities enhanced my efficiency. During the early days, I used the bus, as it was just 7–8 minutes from my accommodation, and later I began cycling to the university, thanks to the well-managed cycle routes. Bologna is very well connected, walkable, and easy to explore. It’s a city full of hustle and student life, with people from around the world form a strong community, making it vibrant and welcoming.
In my free time, I travel, it’s my favourite thing to do. Whenever I had time, I explored Italy and travelled abroad. As of 21 January 2025, I’ve been to Germany, France, Poland, Lithuania, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the UK, and the USA, and I intend to keep going. I also play guitar and sing.
A good friend and batchmate of mine, Giuseppe Rizzello, and I have travelled to many places together. I served as a degree programme tutor and supported fellow students throughout the year. Being in a cross-cultural environment broadens your vision and changes how you see the world.
I feel very fortunate to be a UNIBO student. I’ll always be grateful for my time in Bologna and everything I’ve experienced. UNIBO helped me work towards the goals and vision I had for Kashmir, offering me the right opportunities and exposure. Anyone who joins UNIBO is indeed a fortunate person. I would also like to sincerely thank the IRSS for giving us the opportunity to be Student Ambassadors and share our stories.