Applied sciences to cultural heritage materials and sites

I am a student in the final stages of this Master's programme and the Master's programme of "Archéométrie" at the Université Bordeaux Montaigne. I am a Colombian architect inspired by the understanding and conservation of the built heritage and deeply interested in its scientific comprehension. I have enjoyed the field trips to different places such as Monselice, Venice, and Portogruaro. As well, the formation of the lab has been a unique experience for me, especially thanks to my previous studies. In it, I have been able to observe different techniques of analysis and even analyze some samples myself.

I decided to study here because of the University's unique focus and academic offer. I believe that the protection and conservation of the built heritage is a necessity, and should be carried out with the utmost meticulousness. This Master provides the opportunity to study from a different perspective, and to provide answers in a unique way.

One of the most rewarding surprises was the possibility to do a double degree: this represented a unique learning experience, where the two universities provided their point of view and helped shape my education. Another surprise was that lessons cover a brought variety of studies: the master is not focused on closing up a field of study by deepening it, but to obtain new knowledge from a great variety of fields that collaborate and work together to provide a better comprehension of heritage materials and sites.

Thanks to the high amount of exchange programs at the university, there is always a big amount of international students. They are always open to meeting new people and enjoying new experiences together. Italian students are very welcoming as well, they have received me with open arms, and I couldn’t be more grateful for all of them.

I enjoy walking around the city, I think it is a great way to spend time with friends. I particularly enjoy some places such as Giardini dell’Arena, Prato della Valle, and the botanical garden. The city offers too a great variety of experiences, such as festivals and events. However, I believe that the best memories during my time in Padova come from the possibility to travel and visit different places all around Italy.

I have relished my time here and I would love more students to live such an experience.