Started as an initiative of the City of Fiesole more than a decade ago, the annual Welcome Reception is the centrepiece of the EUI September Programme, the set of activities taking place across the Institute to greet and recognise academic newcomers. During this time, new researchers, fellows, and master students have the opportunity to “meet their colleagues and understand better what other departments do”, commented Erendira Leon, a first-year PhD researcher in the Department of Political and Social Sciences.
The Welcome Reception, traditionally held off campus, is also an opportunity to introduce newcomers to the local community of Fiesole and its embracing culture. This year, the event hosted over 240 participants from the EUI. Students from Georgetown University, Villa Le Balze, also attended.
The newcomers took part in cultural and entertaining activities offered throughout the event, including guided tours of the archaeological area organised by the City of Fiesole, and a moving musical performance by The Pilgrims Gospel Choir.
“There's more to being at the EUI than the intellectual stimulation it offers,” said EUI President, Professor Renaud Dehousse in his welcome address. “Being in Italy, being in Tuscany, being in Fiesole, is an opportunity to get acquainted with a culture, a society, and people that are really worth being known.”
“From now on, Fiesole is your home," added the Mayor of Fiesole, Anna Ravoni.
Bjorn Vindemarker, first-year PhD researcher in the EUI Department of History, shared that “it’s been a very good first impression.” Discussing what he is looking forward to during his experience at the EUI, Vindemarker mentions working together with other newcomers. “It’s not always the case in different PhD programmes to have a class that you can start together with. I’m really looking forward to learning about everyone’s different research topics and having that collegial type of experience.”
Javier Viviens, researcher in the Department of Economics, is also keen on discovering more about the vibrant research environment at the EUI, while also “meeting new people, broadening my horizons and having fun.”
“I am looking forward to finding my voice as a researcher,” added Gildelen Atybiyo, researcher in the Department of Law, “but also forming relationships, feeling like I’m a part of Firenze, a true Florentine.”
In the 2022-2023 academic year, the EUI welcomed 102 researchers in the four departments, 105 new fellows and 67 new master students.