The Future is Hers: 10 Inspiring EUNICE Students

BTU = Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg

1. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your journey?

I come from a country where women are oppressed on a daily basis and do not have their basic rights to live and flourish. However, they have been struggling for several years to achieve their rights, to be acknowledged as valuable members of society, and to combat oppression.

I have been living in such a community with structural injustice against women, where everything was way harder than it had to be. I did not have the chance to gain certain experiences, to feel a sense of freedom and security, or to believe that I had the same opportunities as men in my home country and even as other people, both men and women, in other countries. These challenges have been present throughout my whole life as a woman living in a country without women’s rights, alongside a broader structural injustice at the international level.

2. What national and/or institutional measure really made a difference for you?

As I previously mentioned, I had been facing national, institutional, and structural inequality until my 20s in my home country as a woman. As a woman studying environmental science, I experienced intersectionality in different dimensions of injustice. For instance, I was not allowed to enter protected areas in my country easily without my father or husband (if I was married) to conduct research. Moreover, it was not easy to get approval for public jobs related to my field of study.

All these national and institutional barriers made the situation even more difficult for living and working in my favorite field; therefore, I decided to migrate with the hope of more freedom and equal opportunities. However, I have realized that there is still systemic injustice here, despite much greater freedom for women compared to my home country.

3. What motivates you to continue your studies despite these challenges?

Despite all these structural challenges in the community where I had been living, I grew up in a family where I felt valued as a woman, the same as any other gender. My father, the first man in my life, never restricted my desire to make my own decisions; he always allowed me to explore and gain experience. My family has always encouraged me to continue my studies because they believe I have the capacity to grow, learn, and achieve my dreams. In addition to my family, I have loved ones in my life who always believe in me and my abilities.

Above all, despite all the barriers in my life related to my gender, I have always believed that if I have the opportunity to study and learn, then I also have the responsibility to make a difference in the world around me to address injustice, to demand equality, and to advocate for equal rights for all members of society, including women. This is so that the next generations can live in a better world, not only in my country but all over the world.

4. What stereotype contradicts your experience?

There has always been a stereotype that women are more sensitive and rely more on their feelings rather than logic. However, I have never felt that being a sensitive person limits my ability to make decisions.

There is also a belief that women need someone to protect them from the world around them and that they cannot speak for themselves. But I always try to speak up for myself and for what I want in my life independently, yet with the support of my loved ones.

5. In your opinion, what needs to be changed or strengthened to improve access to education?

Education is one of the basic needs of all people, regardless of gender. However, women more frequently face a lack of access to education due to predefined societal roles and structural gender inequality. Therefore, I strongly believe that we need to address this systemic injustice, which restricts access to a very basic need solely based on gender or other socio-economic characteristics.

Women need to be aware of their rights, including the right to education, so they can demand them. However, it is important not to place this responsibility solely on women, but rather on the unjust institutions and systems that make them believe in these predefined roles.

6. What message would you like to convey on International Women’s Day?

Throughout history and across the world, women have been fighting for their basic rights to be acknowledged as valuable members of society with equal rights. Nowadays, it may seem that women have better conditions for living, working, and enjoying their rights, which is clearly much better than decades ago. However, it is still important to remain aware of the many forms of injustice that continue to occur in different aspects of women’s lives, and to speak out loudly against all forms of discrimination and oppression.

When we celebrate our valuable achievements, we must also keep in mind that we still need to fight for meaningful diversity and inclusion of all members of society in order to achieve real justice, meaning a community where no one is discriminated against because of a certain characteristic.

UC = University of Cantabria

1. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your journey?

Currently, I am working at CERN, in Geneva, Switzerland. When I got the position, I had only one month to prepare, and I faced multiple challenges at once: I did not speak the language, I was unfamiliar with the administrative system, and I did not have apartment. At the same time, I had to learn a completely new job, integrate into a new society, and finish my master’s thesis, which I had started before moving.

I remember feeling very overwhelmed. However, I was also surrounded by a large international community of people facing similar situations, which created a strong support network and helped me adapt both professionally and personally.

2. What national and/or institutional measure really made a difference for you?

One of the most important measures that made a real difference was the flexibility provided by my university. When I started my contract at CERN, I had not yet completed my master’s degree at the University of Cantabria. Nevertheless, I was allowed to defend my master’s thesis online and to continue following certain courses remotely, which made it possible to combine both responsibilities.

In addition, the University of Cantabria had actively promoted the CERN Student Programs, which is how I became aware of this opportunity in the first place. This kind of institutional support and visibility is essential. For this reason, I strongly encourage students to apply for international exchanges and internships during their university studies, as they are extremely enriching not only from a technical perspective (a stronger CV and broader education), but also on a personal level (greater self-confidence, independence, and personal growth).

3. What motivates you to continue your studies despite these challenges?

Working at CERN was a dream come true for me, and that alone became a powerful source of motivation. I believe that, when you are passionate about something, challenges become more manageable.

For example, even though I initially did not speak French, I knew that with effort and time I would be able to learn it, and I also saw it as a valuable skill for my future. Similarly, when facing administrative difficulties, I was supported by colleagues who were in similar situations.

4. What stereotype contradicts your experience?

Before arriving at CERN, I had the idea that I would be surrounded exclusively by extremely intelligent people with limited social lives, extremely demanding working schedules, and little balance outside of worklife. I also imagined long working days and an intense professional environment.

However, my experience has been quite the opposite. I discovered a community of motivated colleagues who are also very socially active, open to cultural exchange, travel, outdoor activities… In other words, great friends. People genuinely seek to make the most of the opportunity, both professionally and personally.

In addition, the working culture strongly values balance and well-being. Working hours are clearly structured, weekends are respected, and there is a strong institutional awareness of mental health and work–life balance. This reality was very different from my initial expectations and has been a very positive and enriching experience.

5. In your opinion, what needs to be changed or strengthened to improve access to education?

I am a strong supporter of public education, and I highly value the Spanish educational system, in which public education from primary school to university level is widely accessible and offers a high academic standard.

Having said this, I believe that in Spain, the connection between academic training and professional experience should be reinforced. In this sense, promoting internships, traineeships, and practical training opportunities during university studies would significantly improve students’ preparation for their professional life.

In addition, I consider cultural and academic exchange to be essential for expanding students’ opportunities. Strengthening international mobility programs, ensuring better compatibility and accessibility within ERASMUS frameworks, and increasing the number of available exchange opportunities would be highly beneficial. Furthermore, expanding the availability of language courses within the public education system, adapted to different proficiency levels, would help reduce barriers to mobility and inclusion.

6. What message would you like to convey on International Women’s Day?

I would like to use this opportunity to encourage women who are considering a path in research and academia. These environments can sometimes be demanding and competitive, and not always fair, and women can be particularly affected by these challenges. However, it is often in difficult moments when resilience and perseverance are built.

It is important to remember that every step forward creates visibility and opportunity for others. Each woman who follows her path with determination may become a source of inspiration for younger generations.

I would also emphasize the importance of autonomy and choice. Every woman has the right to define her own future, whether that includes building a research career, starting a family, combining both, or choosing a different path altogether. These decisions should belong entirely to the individual, based on her values, aspirations, and life goals.

UNICT = University of Catania

1. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your journey?

The greatest structural obstacle I face is the degree recognition process. Despite holding a BA and a MA, and years of international experience, I cannot verify my documents because Syria lacks an automated system due to the war. I am stuck in a bureaucratic limbo that has forced me to (re)enroll at a lower level because I cannot “equalize” my diploma. Beyond bureaucracy, my daily life is a struggle; I live in a refugee center, sharing a room with a family and two children. With no laptop or desk, I study on my mobile phone in the kitchen at midnight once everyone is asleep.

2. What national and/or institutional measure really made a difference for you?

The University’s International Department was responsive and crucial in guiding me initially. However, institutions must become more flexible for refugees. For example, I missed scholarship opportunities due to long procedural delays. Universities need alternative verification paths for those from war-torn countries where a response from the home government is impossible to obtain.

3. What motivates you to continue your studies despite these challenges?

My motivation is rooted in my professional identity; I refuse to let my academic achievements and years of expertise go to waste. I am not here to start from zero, but to build upon my foundation so I can be an active contributor in Italy rather than a burden. Obtaining a recognized certificate will broaden my horizons and open significant career opportunities.

4. What stereotype contradicts your experience?

The stereotype that refugee women are passive victims without high skills is false. I believe women can make a difference at any stage of life if they have support. My journey is a lesson in resilience, not a sign of weakness.

5. In your opinion, what needs to be changed or strengthened to improve access to education?

Universities should coordinate with municipalities to support asylum seekers who wish to study. We need alternative verification for documents and better linguistic support. Many professors treat all students as if they have the same background, but international students often lack the prior school training in languages like French or Italian that local students possess.

6. What message would you like to convey on International Women’s Day?

Never let your current location or a bad situation define your future destination. Your ambition is your greatest asset. I want to prove that a woman’s dream can survive war, displacement, and the toughest living conditions. Investing in an educated woman is an investment in her entire family and society.

I would like to express my gratitude to the Italian community that welcomed me and made me feel included.

I would like to thank all the professors in my study program at the University of Catania for their support and for taking my circumstances into consideration.

I would also like to thank the University of Catania for the assistance and facilitation they have provided.

UPHF = Université Polytechnique Hauts-de-France

1. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your journey?

The biggest challenge I have ever faced was and still is mental health issues, especially my panic disorder. It’s been following me for nearly ten years now, with high and lows, but it broke out on several occasions, severely impacting my life. It is now under control, however there are things and feelings I will never forget, and I have to take steps and precautions to evolve safely. I’m grateful to be “free” today, and able to do so much. It always gets better.

2. What national and/or institutional measure really made a difference for you?

I really appreciated the medical offer at my university. Even if it’s overcrowded and lacking in some aspects, it can really support students and help them in tough times. When you don’t know where to go, a free health service on campus, dedicated to students, is really a great start. The flexibility and understanding of many professors was also essential.

3. What motivates you to continue your studies despite these challenges?

I’ve always wanted to know. To learn. Curiosity has always been my motivation, and it always will. Giving up was never an option, as long as I’m not dead I want to try. Today, my goal is to understand things and get better in my field. I want to prove to the world, and to myself first maybe, that I can and will do it.

4. What stereotype contradicts your experience?

I often hear older people criticize my generation, how “the youth is today”. Apparently, we’re lazy. Disrespectful. However, I keep meeting and discovering wonderful people, full of talent and kindness. I’ve come to surround myself with hardworking friends, who lead projects, take risks, fight for what they want, and still suffer from doubts, impostor syndrome… It may be true that we face more mental health struggles today, but it doesn’t make us weaker. Many of us are still up and fighting. My generation isn’t lost. We are building our future.

5. In your opinion, what needs to be changed or strengthened to improve access to education?

To improve access to education, we must rely less on grades. Today, schools are built around the notion of performance, and not understanding. Teachers don’t care if you learn, they just want the right answers. This is why people cheat. They’re taught that the only thing that matters is to get a good grade. If we allowed students to make mistakes, to admit their struggles without shaming them, maybe they would like school more, and try to focus more on education. Speak with a student for five minutes: many come to class and only worry about the final, not caring about what they will learn, the experience, the subject. Where is the pleasure to learn, the joy of understanding something new? That is, in my opinion, the main problem. The gender stereotypes we push on some fields is also an issue, but focusing on that first would already help immensely.

6. What message would you like to convey on International Women’s Day?

It is difficult to be a woman. You might feel like your coin landed on the wrong side. However, we’re also lucky. Female friendships are a treasure. We’re taught emotional intelligence, and gain empathy that allows us to understand the world and others so deeply. It may be heavy, but it is a beautiful life to lead.

For this day, I would like you to remember all the forgotten women of the past. The scientists, researchers, inventors, yes, but also the mothers, sisters, wives, the caretakers… We are all here thanks to a woman, and everyday we live to see their strength. Let’s keep fighting for their freedom, their choices, bodily autonomy. Let’s keep fighting. Together.

KAU = Karlstad University

1. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your journey?

The biggest challenge for me has been combining my studies with my elite sports commitment in speed skiing. It is a sport that depends on weather and temperature, which means we are away for long periods for training and competitions around the world, which often take place in the middle of semesters. As an example, I am now missing an entire internship because I am away competing in different locations. At the same time, I compete in a small sport where we receive very little financial support and much of the responsibility falls on me to make life come together.

2. What national and/or institutional measure really made a difference for you?

The opportunity to attend an elite sports university is extremely important to me. Being able to have the chance for flexible studies, understanding from the university, and as much support as possible to pursue dual careers. Being able to adapt my exams, assignments, and other mandatory components according to my competition season has made it much easier for me to continue studying and competing at the same time. Many other organizations also understand how important studies are for athletes and collaborate with universities to support students.

3. What motivates you to continue your studies despite these challenges?

Studies are so much more than just the studying itself. All the people I have met through the university are important for finding motivation to study after long periods away. The education itself is an important part for me as it creates discipline and routines, which are central for elite athletes. It is also reassuring to have an education to rely on, but also another identity beyond my sports career. I also grow as a person and learn a lot about myself during my education.

4. What stereotype contradicts your experience?

An image of elite commitment among women is that many believe we need to choose one path in life, either sport or studies. Especially when the sport is not very commercially large. I want to prove the opposite. I compete in an extreme sport that is dominated by men while I study for a degree. I want to prove to other girls and women that it is possible to commit to your sport while also taking responsibility for your studies. We can do both and we will prove it to society!

5. In your opinion, what needs to be changed or strengthened to improve access to education?

I believe that greater support is needed for athletes who want to combine sport and studies, regardless of level. I am fortunate to be part of a national team and therefore have the opportunity to combine both. Many athletes fall outside of this opportunity because they do not meet the requirements. Lower the requirements and give more students the chance to combine both! Many are already struggling to continue their sports long into life, and more flexibility from higher education institutions can help so many athletes, regardless of whether they compete at the highest level or not. We also need to give more attention to female athletes. I believe they do not always receive the attention they deserve and need to fight extra hard for different types of support in society.

6. What message would you like to convey on International Women’s Day?

My message is that we women should not have to choose between our dreams. Whether it is about studies, sport, or work, we should be able to commit to it fully. Regardless of whether it concerns sports or professions where we are underrepresented, it requires that we receive the right support and trust ourselves. We know that we can, and it is time for us to take more space even in extreme contexts. We all start somewhere, but we have just as much right to work towards our goals and dreams.

UMONS = University of Mons

1. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your journey?

My biggest challenge as a studententrepreneur is finding the necessary funding for my project, because even if we think our idea is interesting, we still have to find a way to finance it.

2. What national and/or institutional measure really made a difference for you?

As student entrepreneurs, we have several tools at our disposal to help us,such as the Entrepreneur Programme offered by the Click. These are various workshops that we can access free of charge to better understand different aspects and move forward with our project. I think that these kinds of tools can really make a difference in its development.

3. What motivates you to continue your studies despite these challenges?

I love my studies, and I find the different courses I’m taking extremely interesting. They allow me to better understand the world around me, particularly how businesses operate. My course is quite comprehensive and diverse, which allows me to continuously learn in several areas.

4. What stereotype contradicts your experience?

One might think that, as a student entrepreneur, the time I devote to my project could interfere with my studies, but in reality, my project helps me to better understand certain aspects of my courses, as I am better able to make the connection between theory and reality.

5. In your opinion, what needs to be changed or strengthened to improve access to education?

I think that from secondary school onwards, education would be more accessible if there were more links to the world of work. When courses show how they can be useful in life or in a profession, it really makes you want to learn.

6. What message would you like to convey on International Women’s Day?

Never stop dreaming. If you want to do something, dare to try, because even if you fail, you will come out stronger and better prepared for the future, because you will have learned something.

UoP = University of the Peloponnese

1. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your journey?

The biggest challenge I face is balancing motherhood (since I am a single mother), research, work, and my ongoing recovery from breast cancer. It is a daily journey—sometimes walking steadily, sometimes running just to keep up. This is not about heroism; it is about setting daily and longer-term goals. For me, research and study are driving forces in every aspect of my life and a catalyst for inner resilience.

2. What national and/or institutional measure really made a difference for you?

The University offers an environment of trust and a flexible operating framework—key factors in the creative development of my research. The institution’s support functions as motivation, giving me the ability to move forward with renewed momentum and effectiveness.

3. What motivates you to continue your studies despite these challenges?

I have always believed that knowledge is liberating. Research serves as a source of empowerment for my health and for raising my daughter. My goal is to show her in practice that real value lies in resilience and continuous improvement, not in perfection.

4. What stereotype contradicts your experience?

My experience challenges the assumption that personal health challenges or multiple roles limit scientific activity. In practice, the exact opposite is true: difficulties and obstacles do not reduce scientific competence; they provide a deeper and more resilient perspective on my work.

5. In your opinion, what needs to be changed or strengthened to improve access to education?

In my view, it is necessary to institutionalize support structures—such as mentoring and care policies that protect women researchers and provide practical support for motherhood—so that we no longer hear, “How can you possibly find time for a PhD now?” We must promote a culture of evaluation focused on research outcomes, while recognizing leadership and empathy skills beyond rigid standards that measure only physical presence and “traditional” scientific “perfection.”

6. What message would you like to convey on International Women’s Day?

This day calls for dismantling the stereotypes that restrict women in Science. My message is: “Improve – Resilience.” To be human is to be imperfect and to make mistakes. I believe that as long as we carry this with us, we find our way to lighter and happier paths. Finally, we must ensure a fair framework for collective progress, with the goal of no longer being the few, but the many.

PUT = Poznan University of Technology

1. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your journey?

There was very complicated situation with visa in 2024 for Belarusian students due to new law regulations and it was indeed difficult, but it ended with positive results after appeal, so the next challenge was to leave everything in my country in 5 days and go to live in Poznań that I have never seen before, but every challenge was worth it definitely.

2. What national and/or institutional measure really made a difference for you?

The adaptational program and support from International Relations Office made a difference for me and helped to adapt during the 1st year. As well as equal with citizens possibilities for scholarship, despite the fact you are international student, if you work hard it is payed off.

3. What motivates you to continue your studies despite these challenges?

My passion for this field (Sustainable Building Engineering), I love it from the bottom of my heart and came for this program. And for sure the real examples of people who have achieved and are still achieving academic and career success.

4. What stereotype contradicts your experience?

I would select two main examples:
– That people cannot return to education after the break, I personally came after receiving education in Belarus and after I was working sometime. Yes, there are challenges but as everywhere.
– Engineering is a male-dominated area: perhaps there are more men that women, but there are still no restrictions and you can be very good in your position if you truly love it and want to work in it.

5. In your opinion, what needs to be changed or strengthened to improve access to education?

I would not change the education system here in PUT because I sincerely like it. But maybe I would just make easier visa requirements for international students to continue their education.

6. What message would you like to convey on International Women’s Day?

I would say not to give in to stereotypes or limitations imposed by society. Follow your goals and your passion with confidence. Do not be afraid to take up space, to speak up, and to pursue what truly inspires you. Overcome obstacles and be proud of every step you take.

UVA =  University of Vaasa

1. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your journey?

For me, leaving my work experience and starting another master’s degree was the most important challenge. I love studying, but leaving my work position and following my dream to start a new master’s degree in a new country was challenging. Step by step, I tried to overcome this and just think about my goals, not the past and what I had before. I think about what I will gain in the future and the meaning in life that will be added to me.

2. What national and/or institutional measure really made a difference for you?

The educational system here is really flexible without having too much stress. I think here the quality of education is more important than quantity, and each course has lots of assignments and projects, and engaging in them helps us understand the materials better and also finish the course gradually, which is really good. Even for taking our exams, we are free to book them ourselves at our preferred time without any pressure. Also, we have the opportunity for retakes and getting a higher score later. All this makes studying less stressful.

3. What motivates you to continue your studies despite these challenges?

I want to improve my academic knowledge and later follow an interdisciplinary program. I studied computer engineering in my bachelor’s degree, and I also have a master’s degree in psychology. It seems like different fields, but I think they are really similar to each other. Actually, a computer is like the brain of a human being, the center that processes everything. So being in both of these majors was really interesting for me.

Now, with advancing technology, I decided to follow AI in my master’s degree again, with the aim of following an interdisciplinary program in the future that can integrate technology and human-centered systems. My main goal is to understand how technology can help people improve their lifestyle and be happier by having a better quality of life through using technology. This makes me more motivated for new research and projects in this field.

4. What stereotype contradicts your experience?

Maybe people say Finland is cold and dark in some months, but for me as a new student, this darkness was a good opportunity to have more time for studying. I think Finland is one of the best countries in the world , so calm, with beautiful nature and lovely people.

Here, all the people are really kind and calm. I did not feel much that I am new here. They are very friendly with newcomers, and they react with full respect toward newcomers and immigrants.

I also learned a lot about their lifestyle and discipline. I love being on time and having discipline, and we see and feel this everywhere here. Actually, a good discipline that does not bother people, it is designed with consideration for your comfort and peace.

They have discipline, and even in -18 degrees, you see that everything runs well without any problem. I think they do not wait for the sun to rise to start their work. So, the weather and cold are not a real issue, and everything works perfectly on time.

As a newcomer, this coordination, order, and respect for rules were really pleasing for me. The cold and darkness were not disturbing me at all. We just wear more clothes and start our day easily. Also, there are lots of winter activities that we can enjoy, like walking on the frozen sea, which is a great experience. When you see this place again in the spring and summer, you think that you were walking here on the water with your feet. Also, nature here is really amazing, and I love that.

5. In your opinion, what needs to be changed or strengthened to improve access to education?

I think supporting and giving more scholarships, especially for international students, can help others access education more easily. Also, organizing internships where the university helps new international students connect to work training, internships, and real projects can be strengthened to improve their motivation, so they understand the work atmosphere here and can find a job after their studies.

6. What message would you like to convey on International Women’s Day?

In my opinion, women have all the talents and potential, and maybe sometimes they just need to believe in themselves to have more self-confidence and follow their dreams. They are free to choose their way and strong enough to follow it and build it. Nothing can stop them. They are great, with optimistic attitudes, strong and happy at the same time, and able to pass the challenges in their lives.

IPV = Polytechnic Institute of Viseu

1. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your journey?

The biggest challenge so far has probably been the lack of free time. Between swimming and studying, there is little or no time to relax or do things that I enjoy, which has been affecting my sleep schedule. Because I have no free time during the day, I stay up late at night instead of sleeping. I wish the day had more than 24 hours. When I was younger, this challenge definitely messed with my head. Nowadays, I am more organized, but some days are tough.

2. What national and/or institutional measure really made a difference for you?

When I was in high school, I entered a program called UAARE (Unidades de Apoio ao Alto Rendimento na Escola). The main focus of this program was to help student-athletes manage their studies while maintaining their training, so that nothing fell behind. They helped personalize our class schedules, created extra classes so we could catch up on missed content (when we skipped school to compete), and provided psychological support to help us manage our emotions and personal challenges. It really helped a lot. At the time, it was very difficult to balance my training schedule with a very demanding school timetable.

3. What motivates you to continue your studies despite these challenges?

My main motivation is having a future source of income. I don’t have a dream job or anything like that, but I need to secure a stable income because I won’t be an athlete my entire life. My family has always advised me to study and prepare myself for a life outside of sports. I think they are right, so I chose a major that interested me.

4. What stereotype contradicts your experience?

I feel like a lot of people believe I don’t have time to study. They are both right and wrong. I do have time to study, just not as much as a typical student. The real struggle, as I mentioned before, is having time to enjoy myself or go out with friends.

5. In your opinion, what needs to be changed or strengthened to improve access to education?

In my opinion, schools need to be more flexible to improve access to education. Not all students have the same schedules or responsibilities, so having adaptable timetables and extra support can really help students keep up without feeling overwhelmed.

6. What message would you like to convey on International Women’s Day?

Being a student-athlete means learning to be strong both mentally and physically. On International Women’s Day, we should celebrate all women who balance dreams, pressure, and expectations every day.