Linet Awino Odonde was born in Kenya but decided to move to Emilia-Romagna to complete her university studies. In fact, she got a scholarship at the Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, which allowed her to graduate with a Master’s Degree in Health economics, management and policy. So, she is an expert on global health and research, with a strong academic background in health economics, management, policy evaluation and statistics.

As he told us, her experience in Italy was not so easy at the beginning. The biggest problem was the culture shock and the language barrier. Linet did not know that Italians are not very fluent in English, and therefore she had some difficulties in communicating with people and making friends. After a while the situation improved, also owing to the welcoming environment and to the friendly people she met. 

Overall, Linet is very happy to live in Bologna. She is attracted by the beauty of the historical monuments and buildings present in the city which, as she explains, are very different from those in her country. She strongly recommends coming to Emilia-Romagna because it is a place where there are so many interesting things to do and see. However, her advice is to be aware of the culture shock you might get if you come from outside, and above all to learn some Italian before going. 

Moreover, she is also part of our it-ER Ambassadors, the network of international university students, PhDs, researchers and knowledge workers representing the Emilia-Romagna Innovation Ecosystem throughout the world! 

Find out more about Linet Awino Odonde by watching the short video below and If you want to know how to become an it-Er Ambassador, here you will find all the information you need.

If you want to find out other amazing stories from our international talents in Emilia-Romagna, check the it-ER stories area!