H-FARM College kicks off the 2024/25 academic year

Yesterday, we welcomed the academic year 2024/25 freshmen as well as the 2nd and 3rd-year students who came back to campus after their exams and summer break.

In the morning, Antonella Sannella, Executive Director of H-FARM College, offered a warm welcome to returning students who were then introduced to significant updates and developments at H-FARM College. The highlights included the Enhancing program’s evolution, a totally new Personal Development Program, hands-on activities and the College’s continued emphasis on international opportunities presented by Silvia Dell’Acqua, Head of International and Corporate Relations.

“Make H-FARM Campus your home” – Antonella Sannella

“We are here to open up new opportunities for you” – Silvia Dell’Acqua

Student Arianna Agostinetto, who recently participated in the “AI & Fashion” summer program, shared her valuable experience studying between our Campus and New York City. 

Soon after that, representatives from H-FARM College’s partner universities also addressed the students. Matthew Cooper and Rob Warwick from the University of Chichester, followed by greetings from Ca’ Foscari University represented by Maurizio Massaro.

Second and third year students were then inspired by the words of Pierluigi Fasano, Professor of Practice, who led a talk titled “A Glance into the Future: The Age of AI.” Fasano explored the growing influence of artificial intelligence on industries and the importance of preparing for a rapidly evolving future.

The event concluded with an overview of Student Life activities, highlighting the many opportunities for student engagement on campus. Annalisa Baccini, Student Life coordinator, announced that the next guest for H-FARM’s upcoming hackathon will be the content creator Alessandro Della Giusta (@aledellagiusta), setting the stage for an exciting year ahead.

But the emotions didn’t end there: in the afternoon, the freshmen were welcomed by Tommaso and Aisana, current College students who took on the role of presenters of a special event. “Two years ago, we were sitting in your seats, just as you are today,” said them from the Big Hall main stage, wishing H-FARM would soon feel like home to the newcomers.

Antonello Barbaro, CEO of H-FARM Education, delivered an inspiring speech to the new undergraduate and postgraduate students, urging them to embrace the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world. Quoting Nelson Mandela’s famous words, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” Barbaro emphasized the transformative power of learning. “H-FARM exists to empower you, our graduates, to create a sustainable, just, and joyful future for all,” he said.

Barbaro also highlighted global challenges like climate change and geopolitical instability but pointed to emerging opportunities in technology and space exploration. “You are entering a world that will look significantly different in the next 10 to 15 years. The world needs talents who are willing to challenge norms and envision a better future.” He closed with a powerful message of support: “We believe in you, and we will do whatever it takes to help you build a brighter future. Welcome to your H-FARM College.”

In a warm and informal session, program coordinators were introduced to the students. This was followed by a lively Q&A session where students had the chance to ask questions directly via QR code, making the exchange interactive and dynamic. 

The day also included a discussion of H-FARM’s distinctive “three-dimensional” learning model, which blends academic knowledge with real-world experience. Current students shared personal stories about how learning inside and outside the classroom, as well as on-the-job experiences, had shaped their education. Opportunities for entrepreneurship were also a major highlight. Zeno Tosoni, Manager of the Entrepreneurship & Startup Center, encouraged students to explore the pre-acceleration programs, which give them a chance to launch their own startups.

The Welcome Day event concluded with the traditional tree planting ceremony, a symbol of growth and a lasting connection to the H-FARM community.