New PhD Candidate joins the Lab!

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The start of the new academic year brings new people to our Lab, including a new PhD student! We asked him to introduce himself and answer some fun questions. Welcome to the Mobility Lab, Michele!

Hi there! I’m Michele, and I’m originally from the town of Arezzo in Tuscany. I’m about to embark on an exciting journey at the University of Tartu, where I’ll spend at least the next three years.

I’m looking forward to exploring this beautiful city and making the most of my time here. 

I’ll be joining as a PhD candidate under the MSCA Doctoral Network SUNSET, focusing on a project that I’m truly passionate about. My research will explore how local municipalities and universities can collaborate to drive green transitions in urban mobility.  

I can’t wait to start and see where this adventure takes me! 

What is your background? 

I’ve got a BSc in Political Science and an MSc in Public and Business Communication—basically, I’m all about citizen engagement and collective well-being. My journey into active urban mobility began during my MSc thesis when I explored Bologna Città 30. It opened my eyes to how transforming cities from car-centric to people-friendly spaces can boost community life and make our daily commutes feel more like a stroll through a park than a mad dash. I also love geography because it broadens my understanding and feeds my passion for interdisciplinarity, allowing me to see how spaces, policies, and people intersect. 

What do you do in your spare time? 

In my spare time, I’m all about staying active. I’m into endurance sports, with cycling and running being my top two favourites. There’s something about pushing your limits that just feels awesome. I also love hiking, especially with others—it’s a wonderful way to connect with new people and nature. But when I’m not out breaking a sweat, I enjoy getting lost in a good book, whether a novel or an essay. And I’m always up for a game night, whether a card game or a board game—I love a little friendly competition! 

What is your favourite book? 

It’s hard to choose just one favourite, but “Le lettere di Jacopo Ortis” and “Uno, nessuno e centomila” have profoundly impacted me. The first captured the intensity of youthful passion and the struggle between personal ideals and societal expectations. It resonated deeply with me during my teenage years, teaching me about the power of emotions and the conflicts they can bring. On the other hand, the second challenged my understanding of identity and the many facets of the self. It made me think critically about how we are perceived by others versus how we see ourselves, shaping my perspective on individuality and self-awareness. Both books have left a lasting impression on my character and how I view the world. 

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