Why did you choose to study building engineering at Politecnico di Milano after your bachelor’s degree?
During my undergraduate studies in civil engineering in Brazil, I was fortunate to receive a scholarship to study part of my program in the US. It was there that my passion for sustainability grew, especially after completing an internship at Pennsylvania State University, where I worked on a project focusing on improving the interoperability of Building Information Models for energy analysis. After returning to Brazil from the exchange program, I gained experience in the construction industry in my hometown. As I had a desire to move to Europe, I started researching various master’s programs that would allow me to deepen my knowledge of sustainability and hopefully pave the way for my entry into the European market. That’s when I came across the Building Engineering course. The program stood out to me because of its focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and integration of BIM into the disciplines. Given my previous experience, the Building Engineering course seemed like an excellent option as it would equip me with the knowledge and skills needed to further advance my career in sustainable construction.
What are the main difficulties you dealt with while studying and living in Italy? How did you manage them?
Living and studying in Italy was my second experience abroad, having spent one and a half years in the US previously. This prior experience prepared me for some of the challenges, but Italy presented its own set of difficulties.
When I moved to Italy, I didn’t speak Italian, but I improved by taking free language lessons offered at a church. Polimi also provided lessons.
Before moving to Italy, I tried to look for flats online, but negotiating from outside of Italy was difficult. Eventually, my partner, who is European, went to Italy to visit flats and negotiate in person. I imagine that online viewings have become more accessible mainly after COVID. I also know there are student accommodations, but I didn’t live there as I was moving with my partner.
Living in Milan can be expensive, especially if you don’t have a source of income. Initially, I wanted to find a part-time job, but it was not possible as the program demanded full-time dedication. I was fortunate to be supported by my partner and parents during that time.
Adapting to the Italian education culture was also challenging. However, despite these challenges, the experience was incredibly rewarding and enriching.
What are the main differences of studying in your home country and studying at Politecnico di Milano?
In Brazil, completing an engineering bachelor’s degree takes a minimum of five years, with an additional two years for a master’s program. In Italy, a bachelor’s degree takes three years, followed by a two-year master’s program. But since I haven’t completed a master’s in Brazil, I can’t directly compare the two.
In Brazil, students take around six compulsory courses per semester during their bachelor’s program. In the final two years, they can specialize in a certain area, like I did in construction management. Typically, there are around three exams per subject each semester, plus a final exam. Students also complete project work and at least one professional internship of twenty hours/week during a minimum of one semester, along with writing a final thesis.
In Italy, I found these key differences: exams are held only at the end of the semester, covering all content. Oral exams are common, unlike in Brazil or the US, which posed a new challenge for me. The schedule allows limited time for part-time work, accommodating only short internships.
What are the opportunities that this Master Program offered to your personal and professional growth? How were they useful to your career development
The differences I mentioned previously presented initial challenges that required me to develop new skills and refine existing ones, which in turn made me a better professional and individual. Throughout the program, I expanded my knowledge in the field, improved my communication skills, enhanced my problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, and gained confidence in public speaking.
Earning a European master’s degree facilitated my entry into the European market, especially with a degree from Polimi, a prestigious technical university. At Polimi, I had the opportunity to work on my master’s thesis while interning at Jacobs, one of the top engineering companies in the world. This experience played a crucial role in building my career path in Europe. After the master’s, I moved to London to work at Foster + Partners’ Sustainability Group, where I advanced to the position of ‘Associate’ after one year with the company. I am now working at Mace Group, starting the role of Sustainability Lead for the Interiors and Retrofit business unit.
Despite the challenges, the Master Program was an enriching experience, shaping both my personal and professional development.