My name is Awosusi Oluwapelumi Ayodeji, and I am currently enrolled in the EMIMEP programme – the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Innovative Microwave Electronics and Photonics.
Q&A
What motivated you to join the EMIMEP programme and how has your journey through these two years shaped your academic and professional goals?
I wanted an academic experience that integrates technical knowledge with entrepreneurial opportunities to help realise my long-term vision. EMIMEP, being a highly competitive and well-structured programme with international mobility and diverse exposure, was a natural fit.
Over the past two years, I have grown significantly, both academically and professionally. The programme gave me hands-on experience with state-of-the-art photonics systems, while the teaching approach encouraged independent learning. The structure of the coursework and unlimited access to the software tools pushed me to focus on building a strong foundational understanding and practical competence.
Can you tell us more about your internship experience in the photonics field at UniBs?
I started my internship at the University of Brescia in early March. It has been a balanced experience between theoretical learning and practical application. The labs are well-equipped, and I have been allowed to work under supervision on advanced systems. Importantly, I was given the freedom to explore my chosen research topic in-depth, which has made the process intellectually engaging and personally rewarding.
How has EMIMEP prepared you for your ambition to apply quantum photonics in agriculture and other sectors?
Quantum photonics is not a widely mainstream field yet, but EMIMEP gave me the opportunity to explore it meaningfully. Through coursework, industry events, and networking opportunities, I was able to link the technical aspects of quantum photonics to real-world challenges. Attending the Research and Industrial Week was especially useful in bridging engineering innovation with business application—an approach I hope to apply in agriculture and beyond.
What are some of the highlights or key strengths of the EMIMEP programme that you would recommend to future students?
The mobility aspect of EMIMEP stands out. Each partner university offers a unique academic and cultural experience. Personally, participating in events like European Microwave Week helped strengthen my technical skills while expanding my professional network. The programme is not just about studying—it also prepares you for the job market and research careers.
What has your overall experience at the University of Brescia been like and how has it contributed to your growth within the EMIMEP programme, since you decided to spend another academic year in Brescia?
It has been over a year since I first arrived in Brescia, and I now consider it a second home. The city is welcoming, the people are friendly, and I have always felt safe and supported. Academically, the experience has been invaluable. While I cannot quantify it precisely, the growth has been substantial, both in technical knowledge and personal development. Choosing to stay for another year was a deliberate decision, not by chance.
Any further detail/information you would like to add?
What makes EMIMEP different from other Erasmus Mundus programmes is the strength of its consortium and the genuine commitment of its professors. The kindness, support, and mentorship I have received throughout the programme go far beyond what is advertised on the website. I strongly encourage anyone considering EMIMEP to apply—you will gain not only knowledge but a supportive international academic family.
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