Taking part in the Live My Life programme was an incredibly enriching experience, both professionally and personally. As the sole secretary of the Bioethics Committee at the University of Bologna, I rarely have the opportunity to exchange ideas with peers who work in similar roles. That is precisely why I was so enthusiastic about the job shadowing opportunity offered by Una Europa.
I had the privilege of spending a full working week at the University of Helsinki, hosted by the wonderful Aura Kivilaakso, Research Integrity Coordinator at the University of Helsinki’s Research Management Support unit, a highly skilled and generous colleague. Aura had already visited Bologna as part of our exchange, and preparing her visit helped me discover new connections and internal collaborations within my own university – a valuable “side effect” of the programme.
One of the highlights of my time in Helsinki was the opportunity to meet and interact with colleagues from other Una Europa partner universities, such as Freie Universität Berlin, University of Zurich, UCD Dublin, and more. We attended joint meetings, sharing our experiences and perspectives on research ethics and institutional practices. These cross‑university discussions enriched my understanding of how different institutions approach common challenges in research governance and fostered a strong sense of community across our network.
In Helsinki, I was warmly welcomed into the team and had the chance to attend meetings, focus groups, and in‑depth discussions on research ethics and institutional procedures. I learned how similar roles are structured in other European universities, and I gained insights that I could immediately bring back to Bologna – for instance, introducing a bilingual ethics approval certificate, inspired by Helsinki’s trilingual version.
Beyond the professional aspect, I was deeply impressed by the university’s infrastructure, technological tools, and strong sense of well‑being offered to staff and students. From ergonomic working spaces to welcoming cafeterias and relaxation rooms – everything reflected a tangible culture of care and efficiency. It made me reflect on what we could strive to improve in our own working environment.
I also appreciated the chance to practice my speaking English every day – something I don't often get to do in my usual role – and to explore the beautiful Helsinki during my walks around the city or the seaside or during the visiting of important museums and cultural sides together with Aura and other colleagues.
The human connections formed during and after working hours were among the most rewarding parts of this journey. To anyone considering taking part in Live My Life: do it. Be open, curious, and ready to step out of your comfort zone. The experience will not only broaden your horizons – it will stay with you forever.
Aura also visited Blagovesta in Bologna - you can read her story here: Aura Kivilaakso — UnaEuropa Unibo