Meet scholarship winner Niccolò Maffoni, the science enthusiast with a love for South Africa! With the goal to contribute one day to scientific knowledge, Niccolò is now attending the MEDTEC School, a revolutionary degree run by Humanitas University and Politecnico di Milano that's shaping the next generation of doctors and engineers.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m Niccolò Maffoni, I’m 19 years old and I’m passionate about Natural Science: from biology to zoology. After having graduated at Leonardo da Vinci high-school in Milan, I’ve decided to attend the MEDTEC School, a 6-year university degree run by Humanitas University in partnership with Politecnico di Milano.

Why have you chosen this path?

First of all, because it’s very innovative and I love experimenting new things. This degree combines two programs - traditional medicine with biomedical engineering -, but you don’t feel like studying two unrelated things. The course, in fact, explores the application of medicine within biomedical engineering and vice versa: for example, physics is taught in relation to the human body. Furthermore, because it’s pretty international: classes are held in English, students come from all over the world, and professors have previously studied or worked abroad.

What do you love the most about your degree program?

The environment: it’s stimulating and engaging. There’s a great interaction between students and between students and professors. These are always open to one-to-one conversations.

What are your future goals?

I would love to do research: even though I still have to figure out my area of focus, my ambition is for sure to contribute to the progress of science. Moreover, I would love to work in South Africa, a country I’m madly in love with. In summer 2019, I had the chance to volunteer there. I’ve worked for 2 months in different natural reserves: I’ve learned during that experience the importance of research.

Who do you admire the most?

Sir David Attenborough, broadcaster and natural historian. I’ve watched most of his documentaries; when he speaks, he has a special sparkle in his eyes. I would like to convey the same passion for my job one day.