What a ride – literally!
When I was invited to represent Durham University and student voices at the Coimbra Group’s 40th Anniversary Conference in Bologna, I was thrilled. What I didn’t know was how much of an adventure it would turn out to be, from navigating visa challenges to tasting tiramisu for the first time, and sharing a panel with rectors and vice-chancellors from across Europe. I was especially grateful that the entire trip was fully sponsored by the University, making the experience even more meaningful.
Visa twists and turns
Let’s start with the travel drama. Like many international students, I’ve come to expect a bit of uncertainty when it comes to visas, but this one took the cake. The Italian visa route wasn’t working out due to limited appointments, and I was at risk of missing the entire event.
Thankfully, with the incredible support of the University, special thanks to Emma and the International Office, I was able to apply through the Norwegian Embassy instead. It wasn’t easy, but I finally received my visa just two days before my flight. Two. Days!
That meant I had to route my way through Norway to get to Italy. But, silver lining, I had a brief chance to explore Oslo before heading to Bologna. We landed in Italy almost at midnight, checked into our hotel, and quickly tucked in to rest before the real adventure began.
Sunlight, streets, and sweet treats
The first official day in Bologna started with registration at the conference venue. The energy in the air was full of purpose and possibility. In the afternoon, I explored the city a little, walking through sun-kissed streets lined with rustic buildings, soaking in the beauty and rhythm of Bologna.
Later that evening, we were welcomed with a dinner hosted at a charming Italian restaurant. It was there that I tried Tiramisu for the first time, soft, creamy, with just the right hint of coffee. Now I finally understand the hype. Tiramisu has officially won me over.
A seat at the table
This was the big day, the highlight of my entire trip. I had the honour of sitting on a panel alongside some of Durham University’s top leaders – our Vice-Chancellor, Professor Karen O’Brien, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Health, Professor Charlotte Clarke, Professor Danny Donoghue (also a Coimbra Group Executive Board member), and the Rectors of Utrecht and Turku Universities.
Representing students at such a high-level conversation was humbling and empowering. I spoke about the role of students in driving sustainability efforts, not just as recipients of knowledge, but as active participants and leaders. I shared reflections from the recent Climate Symposium, where we, the students, took part in a “serious game” that challenged us to design climate solutions. The depth, hope, and innovation that came from those discussions were unforgettable.
That evening, we had a cocktail reception where I connected with students from the Erasmus Student Network. As the event wrapped up, I left with Karen and Claire (our Pro Vice-Chancellor Global), assuming we were heading back to the hotel. To my surprise, they invited me to dinner, a simple gesture that turned into one of the warmest moments of my trip.
A gala to remember
On the final full day, after a brief trip to Florence, I made it back just in time for the Gala Dinner. Held in a historic hall with grand architecture, candlelight, and a live classical performance, it felt like stepping into a Renaissance painting. I sat with my Durham team – Charlotte, Emma, and Kathrine and later we all gathered, including Karen and Claire, for a lovely group photo in that magnificent hall.
Looking back
We wrapped up the conference with a closing lunch on the university premises the next day. As we said our goodbyes, there was a real sense of unity and purpose among the delegates.
This experience reminded me that being a student isn’t just about the lectures and essays. It’s about showing up in rooms where decisions are made, using your voice to inspire change, and embracing opportunities, even the ones that come with passport drama.
To every student reading this: you matter. Your voice belongs in every room where the future is being shaped. Say yes to the challenges, and let purpose lead the way.
Discover more
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our courses in the Department of Anthropology.
