Introducing Emaan Jamil, a 24-year-old from Kuwait with the ambition to revolutionize diabetic care, and Alessandra Macchi, a 25-year-old Italian specialized in post-traumatic epilepsy and aspiring to become a leader in the public health industry. These talented young women share more than just a drive to make a scientific impact. They both chose to pursue the Master’s Program in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnologies at the University of Pavia (Alessandra has completed it with honors in 2024, while Emaan is about to conclude it), and have been awarded the Dompé Foundation Scholarship. Discover more about Alessandra and Emaan through their achievements, internship experiences and goals in our double video-interview.

What does the Dompé Foundation scholarship mean to you?

EJ: The Dompé Foundation holds an immense value as it shows me that there is someone who believes in my potential.

AM: The Dompé Foundation scholarship has meant the world to me – it's been like a beacon of motivation and a launching pad for my dreams. Thanks to the scholarship, I had the incredible opportunity to embark on a study trip to San Francisco to brush up on my English skills. What's more, I'm looking forward to pursuing a second-level Master's program in the near future.

What personal achievement are you most proud of?

EJ: A personal achievement I’m proud of is completing my high school on time here in Italy. I was only 16 when I moved in Italy, and right after four months I started a scientific high school, and I didn’t know anything about Italian language.

Tell us about your internship

AM: My internship is focused on characterizing a rodent model of post-traumatic epilepsy. Currently, 30% of patients with epilepsy are drug-resistant. The research today is therefore focused on discovering new therapeutic targets. The most exciting part of this experience has been witnessing the dedication of the researchers, especially their synergy among different laboratories and institutes.

What is your professional goal?

EJ: One of my professional goals is to find an alternative way for insulin administration in diabetic patients, because the therapy right now can be quite demanding for some individuals.

AM: I aspire to take on a leadership role in projects related to public health.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

EJ: The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is by my mom. She told me: “Don’t waste your time on people who don’t value you.”