Mobina is a Student Ambassador from Iran, and a first-year Master's student in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. She is pursuing her passion for drug delivery and pharmaceutical nanotechnology.
Published on 05 August 2026 | Asia
My name is Mobina, and I am a first-year Master's student in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology at the University of Bologna. I come from Tehran, Iran, and I hold a Bachelor's degree in Applied Chemistry. Ever since my undergraduate studies, I have been fascinated by how chemistry can be used to solve biological and medical challenges. Today, my goal is to build a career in advanced drug delivery and pharmaceutical nanotechnology.
I have always wanted to apply my background in chemistry to biological and medical challenges. During my bachelor's degree, I became particularly interested in drug delivery and how innovative delivery systems can improve the effectiveness and safety of treatments. At the same time, I wanted to study in an international environment where I could learn from researchers with different backgrounds and perspectives.
The University of Bologna offered exactly what I was looking for. The Master's programme in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology gave me the opportunity to combine my passion for chemistry, biology and drug delivery while learning from leading researchers and developing my research skills through my thesis. Another important reason for choosing Bologna was the opportunity to experience life in Italy. Studying at the world's oldest university is truly inspiring. Knowing that generations of renowned scientists, scholars and philosophers have studied and taught here makes me feel part of a long academic tradition and motivates me to do my best every day.
One of my favourite courses so far has been Computational Drug Discovery, mainly because of Professor Matteo Masetti's teaching approach. From the very first day, he clearly explained the structure of both the lectures and the practical sessions, making the course well organised and easy to follow. He also created a very supportive learning environment and was always willing to answer questions and explain complex concepts in a clear and accessible way. What I appreciated most was the opportunity to learn computer-aided drug design, one of the key approaches in modern drug development. Before joining this programme, I had never had the chance to study this field in depth, and I believe these skills will be extremely valuable for my future career.
Studying at the University of Bologna has been a completely different experience from my previous studies in Iran. One of the biggest differences is the examination system. Here, most exams are oral, and students have multiple opportunities to take them throughout the year, offering much more flexibility, even though oral exams can be more challenging for me.
When I first arrived in Bologna, I was struck by how lively the city felt despite its relatively small size. I especially loved its warm red and orange colours, which gave me an immediate feeling of being at home. Connecting with senior students made my first days much easier, and their advice helped me settle into both university life and the city. Today, I spend most of my time studying in the University's libraries and study rooms, use AlmaWiFi every day for my academic work, and recently completed the A2 Italian course at the CLA Language Centre. Using Italian in everyday situations has gradually made me much more confident.
I usually get around Bologna by bus, thanks to the University's discounted TPER annual pass, although I enjoy walking whenever the weather is nice. I really appreciate how vibrant and student-friendly Bologna is. There is always something happening, from concerts to cultural events, making it easy to balance studying with free time.
One of my favourite experiences has been joining the University Choir (Collegium Musicum Almae Matris). After weeks of rehearsals, we performed a concert in January, and it became one of the highlights of my year. I also enjoy going to concerts with friends and spending summer evenings at Bologna's open-air cinema.
Living independently, far from my family, while balancing my studies and everyday responsibilities has been one of the biggest lessons of the past year. Studying in English while learning Italian at the same time has certainly been challenging, but it has helped me grow both academically and personally. Looking back, I can clearly see how much more confident I have become.
I would definitely recommend the University of Bologna because of both its excellent academic programmes and its truly international environment. It is a place where you can meet people from all over the world, build meaningful connections, and grow as both a student and a person. I believe studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that everyone should have if they get the opportunity.