"I'm in Bologna to Make the World a Better and Safer Place"

My Journey to Sustainable Chemistry at the University of Bologna

Hi, I'm Muhammad Ammar, a student exploring Low Carbon Tech and Sustainable Chemistry at the University of Bologna. I'm from Pakistan, and I'm studying this because I really care about making the world better and safer. Growing up, I noticed how things like pollution affect where I live, and it made me want to do something good. So now, I'm at Bologna, soaking up knowledge to make a positive impact. It's not just about getting a degree; it's about using what I learn to make things better for the Earth. I enjoy using cool technology to help keep our planet healthy. Join me on this journey as we figure out ways to make the world a nicer place for everyone!

Getting to Italy for my studies from Pakistan was a bit of a challenge. It took about eight months to deal with all the paperwork and get my visa sorted out. I had originally been studying in China, but the COVID-19 situation made me go back to Pakistan in the middle of it. Waiting for a year to go back to China wasn't really an option because of travel restrictions, so I started looking at other places. 
A friend suggested Italy as a good option with lots of opportunities and chances to improve my skills. After some thinking, I chose the University of Bologna. It has a great history of providing a good education and doing important research. Plus, the city itself is famous for its amazing food and lively student scene. So, here I am, ready for this new adventure of studying and exploring a completely different place. It's a big change from waiting around, and I'm excited about the chance to learn and grow in Italy.

The decision to move my studies to Italy is a step into the unknown, but I see it as an opportunity for new experiences and challenges that will shape my life in a positive way. Leaving behind the uncertainty of waiting, I'm standing on the brink of something new. The choice to study in Italy isn't just about books and classes; it's also about discovering a new culture and way of life. As I get ready to dive into the academic world of the University of Bologna, I'm just as eager to soak up the Italian way of life. The idea of learning and growing in this lively and historic place fills me with hope and determination. 

First days in Bologna: a rollercoaster of emotions

My first day at the University of Bologna was a rollercoaster of challenges and excitement. I got my visa super late, so I missed the first semester and finally arrived in February. It was freezing, and to top it off, it started snowing on my way to the "Campus Navile" on my bicycle. It took me 15 minutes to pedal through the snow to reach my university. 

Finding my department was tricky, but some awesome Italian students helped me out. "Campus Navile" looked amazing with all its vibrant buildings. Even though I missed the first semester and didn't get a grant because I was late, but still I felt choosing Bologna was the right decision. The real challenge began when I decided to find a part-time job. The catch? I didn't speak a word of Italian. Determined not to give up, I memorized a simple phrase – "sono studentessa dell'università di Bologna e cerco lavoro part time" – and used it whenever I dropped off my CV. 

Surprisingly, within just two weeks, I got a call from McDonald's in Castel Maggiore for an interview. The owner, knowing I couldn't speak Italian well, still gave me a job. It was a game-changer. This experience made me realize how kind Italians are. Despite the language barrier, they appreciated my efforts. Now, I'm learning Italian bit by bit, but that first job taught me that kindness goes beyond words. My journey at the University of Bologna started with delays and challenges, but it's these hurdles that made me grow. I may not speak perfect Italian yet, but I'm on my way, all thanks to that memorable first day and the friendly people who welcomed me into their world. 

Life in Bologna

Living as a student in Bologna comes with some challenges, especially when it comes to finding a place to live. Bologna is known as a "university city" because there are so many students, and this makes it tough to find a good place to stay. Many students mean that all the accommodations are full, and finding a single room is really hard. Luckily, there are agencies that help students find places to live, and that's how I found a place with people from my home country. It's nice because we can support each other through the challenges. 

Despite the housing difficulties, Bologna is a great city with a lot of opportunities. It's the capital of Emilia-Romagna and has a lively atmosphere. The city is rich in culture and history, and the food is amazing. I've learned to enjoy the city's unique personality, a mix of old and new that makes every day interesting. Getting around Bologna is something I enjoy. I often use a bicycle to explore the city. Bologna's streets are filled with historic buildings and lively markets, and it's fun to discover new places while biking. When I want to take it slow or the distance is short, I walk or use public transportation. 

The architecture in Bologna is fascinating. The city is famous for its colonnades, which are like covered walkways along the streets. Piazza Maggiore is a special place with the Basilica di San Petronio, a beautiful church from the Renaissance era. It has the world's largest sundial! Next to it is Palazzo D’Accursio, the Town Hall, where you can see the City Art Collection. Exploring these places makes me feel connected to the history of Bologna. 
In my free time, I like to explore Bologna's food scene and spend time with friends. The city has given me true friends, mainly from my classes. We study together, eat together, and have fun exploring the city. Even in our university lab, we manage to make studying enjoyable. 

Bologna has become more than just a place to study; it feels like a second home. The challenge of finding a place to live, which seemed big at first, is now a part of the adventure. As I continue my student life in Bologna, I'm excited about the opportunities the city offers, the rich culture, and the friendships I've made on its cobblestone streets. The struggles of finding accommodation have turned into the colorful experiences that define my time in this lively and charming "university city."