As the European University Alliance Circle U. prepares to celebrate its fifth anniversary, the University of Pisa renews its commitment to the network by welcoming four new Ambassadors: two female and two male students who are ready to promote the Alliance’s activities and values within the university community.
This year’s team includes Agata Bernacca, Mattia Pietro Canale, Diego La Gioia and Anna Terroni, who will represent the University in the many initiatives shared with Circle U.’s partner institutions. Their contribution will be crucial in raising the Alliance’s profile and encouraging greater student participation in the educational, research and mobility opportunities offered through the Open Campus. Supported by the University’s administrative offices, the new Ambassadors will organise events, develop initiatives, collaborate on communication activities and co-create content with fellow students across Europe.

But who are the four new Ambassadors of the University of Pisa? We asked them to introduce themselves and share their experience of this international adventure which unites students through cooperation, innovation and shared growth.
Read their stories below.

Hello, I’m Agata. I’m from Lucca and I study Medicine and Surgery at the University of Pisa. I am delighted to serve as a Circle U. Ambassador for the second consecutive year, and to be a point of reference for anyone seeking a rewarding international experience that allows them to grow and acquire new skills in a dynamic and stimulating environment. Last years’ experience was truly engaging and helped me develop my organisational, networking and teamwork abilities. Taking part in the Alliance’s workshops also introduced me to new and inspiring contexts, which have greatly contributed to my personal growth. I’m really looking forward to taking on this role again and helping my fellow students discover the many valuable opportunities offered by the Alliance.

My name is Mattia. I am 19 years old and I am a third-year student on the Single-cycle Master’s Degree Course in Law at the University of Pisa. I’m originally from Lazio, but I’ve lived in various parts of Italy and abroad, and I’m currently based in Lucca. Having grown up in an international environment, I have always seen learning about different cultures as a wonderful way of gaining new perspectives on the world around me. I have long been interested in Circle U.’s initiatives and in the possibilities for international cooperation at university level. It’s an honour for me to have been appointed as an Ambassador for the University of Pisa and to have the opportunity to participate in an experience that will challenge me both personally and professionally.

Hi everyone, I’m Diego. I study Medicine and Surgery at the University of Pisa and I’m one of the new Circle U. Ambassadors. I came across this initiative by chance while helping a friend look for a post-degree internship: I received an email about some available positions in Brussels. The more I read about it, the more interesting and ambitious I found the project, and I decided to get involved because I strongly believe in the values promoted by the Alliance. Circle U. offers me the chance to engage with students and researchers from other countries, take part in multidisciplinary activities that are rarely part of a traditional university course, and perhaps form friendships that last beyond one’s studies. For me, it represents a chance to explore new perspectives, step out of my comfort zone and build connections that transcend national borders. I’m excited to begin this journey and to help other students at our University discover the opportunities offered by the Alliance.

Hello everyone! I’m Anna, I’m from La Spezia and I’m in the second year of my PhD in Italian Studies at the University of Pisa. I first heard about the Circle U. Alliance a couple of years ago thanks to my professor and supervisor Michelangelo Zaccarello, who also serves as the Academic Chair of the Multilingualism, Interculturality and Language Lab (CU.mil). Knowing my curiosity and enthusiasm to collaborate with academic environments beyond Italy, he encouraged me to get involved. From the very beginning, I was impressed by the energy and collaborative spirit that characterise the Alliance. This is why I decided to apply as an Ambassador last year, an experience which has been incredibly enriching and has inspired me to renew my commitment this year. I’m truly happy to begin this second term, with the same enthusiasm as before, but also with greater awareness and new goals. I can’t wait to help other students discover the many initiatives promoted by Circle U. and to participate in events that offer valuable educational opportunities as well as moments of personal growth and intercultural exchange.


