Introduction:
In this blog post, we delve into a discussion about scholarships in Italy with Jamal Thaheem, conducted by Max Memon. Jamal Thaheem, an accomplished civil engineer, shares his experiences and insights about pursuing higher education in Italy and the various scholarship options available. Whether you are an undergraduate or graduate student interested in pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D. Italy offers a range of scholarship opportunities worth exploring.
Jamal Thaheem’s Journey:
According to Jamal Thaheem, he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Mehran University in 2002. He then worked for a British company in Karachi for approximately three years before receiving a scholarship from the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan in 2009 to pursue his MS leading to a PhD in Italy. After returning to Pakistan in 2014, he currently serves as an assistant professor at NUST in Islamabad, where he also heads the construction department.
General Information about Scholarships in Italy:
• Regional Scholarships: Regional government scholarships are offered for undergraduates, master’s, and Ph.D. students. These provide full or partial fee waivers and monthly stipends. To apply, you submit background information.
• Scholarships Offered by Universities: Italian universities also offer scholarships specifically for Ph.D. students. The application process typically begins in August, with online document submissions and interviews conducted via Skype. International students can apply for these scholarships as there are separate seats allocated for foreign students.
• ERASMUS Scholarship: Another scholarship option available in Italy is the ERASMUS scholarship, which is granted by the European Union. The application process may appear challenging, but all the necessary information can be found online. Students can search and apply for this scholarship. Jamal Thaheem offers guidance to students who wish to pursue this opportunity.
Language Barrier in Italy:
One significant challenge students may face in Italy is the language barrier. Italian people are generally friendly, but the main issue is the language barrier. Italian is the predominant language spoken in the country, and English fluency is limited. However, there are steps students can take to overcome this challenge and increase their chances of adapting successfully. While studying in Italy, it is highly recommended to dedicate time and effort to learn the Italian language. Many universities offer Italian language courses for international students. By actively learning the language, students can improve their communication skills and enhance their overall experience in Italy.
Increasing Job Opportunities in Italy:
• Language Proficiency: Having a command of the Italian language significantly widens the range of job prospects in Italy. While some departments may offer positions that require English proficiency, being fluent in Italian opens up more opportunities in various industries. It is advisable to continue improving language skills even after graduation to enhance employability.
• Internships and Part-time Jobs: Taking part in internships and part-time jobs during studies can be beneficial for gaining practical experience and expanding professional networks.
By addressing the language barrier through language learning, students can adapt more easily to life in Italy. Additionally, developing language proficiency and seeking internships and part-time jobs can significantly increase job opportunities after completing a bachelor’s degree in Italy.
Conclusion:
Jamal Thaheem concludes by emphasizing the importance of education in shaping one’s future. He encourages students who have completed their undergraduate studies at institutions like Mehran University to pursue higher education abroad, such as completing a Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Italy. He urges Pakistani students to seize the scholarship opportunities available and highlights the long-term benefits of education in ensuring a successful and fulfilling life.
By exploring the diverse scholarship options in Italy and overcoming language barriers, Pakistani students can unlock a world of opportunities and pave the way for their personal and professional growth.