Where is your home country?

Italy

Where do you live now?

USA

What languages do you speak?

Italian and English

What is the name of your course?

Master in Business Administration (major in Marketing)

When did you graduate?

2006

What is the name of your education institution?

University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

Why did you choose to study in this field?

I wanted to advance my marketing knowledge.

Why did you decide to study in NSW?

I had a previous student exchange experience at Macquarie University. I loved the environment and the opportunity to get good education with a very practical approach. UTS offered a Limited Work Experience program (which I had at that stage) and it fit perfectly with the type of direction I wanted to give to my career. The program was over two years, and the campus was right in the middle of the city. While in the early days of technology as we know it today, the university was very responsive and the process to enrol was super easy.

Tell us about your experience studying in NSW

I had a great time studying in NSW and Australia. I miss those times dearly. The lifestyle is unmatched. I was able to live by the beach and study in the middle of the city. The student population was very diverse and truly international. I got to experience everything Sydney has to offer, the fusion of culture and traditions that culminate in great experiences and food. I was able to travel and explore Australia's amazing culture. I loved the fact that I could travel in different suburbs and experience truly local food from all over the world. Australia has so much to offer for postgraduate students

What opportunities has studying in NSW given to you?

Going to study in Australia is easy but quite an undertaking for everyone coming from afar. The distance from Europe and the US is considerable. Studying so far away challenged me to give 100% in my future endeavours. It opened up entrepreneurial avenues that later resulted in me starting and exiting two businesses. The practical approach that my course of study had, helped me to quickly enter the job market with knowledge and ability to perform. Employers from all around the world have always been impressed about the fact I spent 2 years there and has consistently provided positive feedback about the school, course and overall experience.

What was the highlight of your experience living in NSW?

My highlight was exploring the different suburbs of Sydney. I lived in Manly and commuted by ferry every day to the CBD. Taking a boat to go to the university is very unique and the change of setting was quite incredible. A 20-minute ride would take you from a laid back, surf spot to the city and skyscrapers. The incredible views of the Sydney harbour are a memory I keep with me. I also explored different suburbs such as Glebe, Balmain, Kirribilli, and North Ryde as my now wife attended Macquarie University at the time. My campus was in Ultimo and I loved the Thai, Japanese and Chinese restaurants and shops around it. I was never able to find such an authentic vibe in any other city of the world.

What are you doing now in your career?

I am the VP of Marketing Strategy, Events for Hopin, the fastest growing SaaS (Software as a service) of all times. Before then, I founded a technology business I sold in 2018 and a media business that I sold in 2019. My expertise is in the event industry where I've been one of the top influencers for the past 10 years. I've also been granted an EB1 visa in the United States as an alien of extraordinary ability for my achievements in the event industry.

Can you share any career advice for current students or graduates?

Developing a passion or a strong interest towards a specific topic you are studying/ or have studied is key to success in your future career. Showing your prospective employers that you care about something matters. Develop true interest and passion for the aspects that others ignore. That will give you the competitive advantage to succeed in an ever-changing job market.