Moving to another country for your job is a big step, but two researchers from Italy quickly found their footing in Ghent. “I love your red bricks.”
Victor is almost done with his PhD, but for Leonardo, the story at Ghent University only began last April. “During my Erasmus in Eindhoven, I fell in love with the Low Countries: the lifestyle, the mild summers, the perfect European base for traveling... I was sure I wanted to do a PhD in this region. When I saw an opening at the Laboratory for Chemical Technology (LCT) at Ghent University, I didn't hesitate for a second.”
Guide at the university and in the city
Moving to a new country comes with plenty of challenges. As a buddy, Victor helps newcomer Leonardo find his way around the lab and the city. It’s a role he takes on with great pleasure. “Four years ago, I was in the exact same position. My colleagues helped me immensely back then, and I really wanted to pass that support along. Even before Leonardo arrived in Belgium, we were already messaging on WhatsApp.”
For Leonardo, that help was a breath of fresh air. “It makes everything so much easier. In the beginning, you have to figure out a lot of practical things. Victor guided me through the paperwork and showed me how the lab works. What would otherwise take weeks, you can settle with a buddy in a single day. That removed mental stress and accelerated my integration in the lab and in the city.”
"What would otherwise take weeks, you can settle with a buddy in a single day."
What’s the buddy system?
International PhD students at Ghent University are paired with an experienced colleague within their faculty. They help the newcomer hit the ground running: from paperwork and group dynamics to campus life and social integration. This way, the researcher builds a valuable professional and social safety net from day one.
Belgium is more relaxed than Italy
After just a few weeks, Leonardo felt completely at home in Ghent. "I live in a lively, international neighborhood where I feel completely at ease. I find fantastic ingredients at the Turkish supermarket around the corner. And my Belgian colleagues think it's weird, but I love your red bricks," he laughs.
Victor calls the international environment his ultimate comfort zone after four years. Still, they both had to adjust to Belgian customs. Victor: "On Sundays in Italy, we traditionally eat pizza, while Belgians head to the fries shop." Leonardo laughs: "And back home, coffee is the social focal point. Here, everyone heads to the pub to chat over a beer."
Both also enjoy spending time outdoors and in green spaces. "I love cycling, but not in Italian cities,” Leonardo laughs. “It’s wonderful that you can just hop on your bike here without fearing for your life.”
Remarkably, both experience daily life here as calmer than in their home country. Victor: "Belgians see Italy as a relaxed vacation destination. But when you live there, the work pressure is often higher. Here in Ghent, things are organized much better. That brings a lot of peace of mind."
Tight-knit research group
That peace of mind is welcome: a PhD is a demanding journey. According to Leonardo, a strong social network is indispensable. "Our research group is very tight-knit, both in the lab and outside of it. We eat lunch together and often go for drinks on weekends. On top of that, I regularly join PhD community activities. That way, you build connections quickly."
Victor agrees. "When people make time for you and are open to connecting, you feel welcome. I love doing my PhD, but it inevitably brings stress. That’s why a close-knit group of colleagues is so important. You share the successes, but also the setbacks."
Good intentions for the new academic year
Starting in September, the first full working year begins for Leonardo. "My first few months mainly served to get to know the lab. Now, I'm looking forward to sharpening the focus of my project and knowing what I'll be working on for the coming years."
Meanwhile, Victor is on the home stretch toward defending his PhD in January, but September is an important turning point for him as well. "After the summer, it takes a little getting used to the hustle and bustle in the lab again. Still, it’s an ideal moment to reflect on the past year, adjust your course, and start with a fresh perspective.”
What tip do you have for UGhentians for the upcoming academic year?
Leonardo: "Don't hesitate to open up from day one. That way, you quickly gather a close-knit group around you. That makes all the difference in feeling truly at home somewhere."
Victor: "Ghent has so much to offer: culture, sports, recreation... Whatever your thing is, you'll definitely find a great community here to experience the city with. Experiences become so much better when you can share them with others."
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