“Practical support that demonstrates a commitment to meeting the needs of its students” by Giulia Papotto

My name is Dr Giulia Papotto, a PhD student at the Faculty of Philosophy of the Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum.

Being awarded this scholarship has meant not only tangible financial support for me, but also an immediate gesture which demonstrates – on the part of the institution – its commitment to showing, on a daily basis, the constant attention it pays to the needs of its students. As a PhD student, I can say that, through this scholarship, the Athenaeum has been able to offer me a degree of ‘peace of mind’ regarding the financial support for my academic journey, including the assistance that the relevant office has always provided me with (including prompt responses), as well as the clarity with which the University’s Study Support Programme sets out its procedures, resources and objectives.

These are some of the factors which, in my view, genuinely contribute to the growth and efficiency of a university.

The academic community must, in fact, be united both in the goals pursued by each individual according to their role, and in the means by which these goals are achieved.

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At this Athenaeum, I’ve noticed a different approach: the administration reaches out to students.

I was able to find out about the Academic Support Programme precisely thanks to the administrative staff who brought it to my attention, and the fact that the University ‘sought me out’ encourages me to ask questions and to play a part – even if indirectly – in ensuring the administration runs smoothly, so that the University can continually improve in terms of communication, efficiency and the range of courses on offer.