What Made Università Cattolica the Right Fit for Lizvel Torres’ Master’s in Innovation and Technology Management
by Gabriel Brolli
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Student Snapshot: Lizvel Torres at a Glance Home Country: Philippines (grew up in Qatar) |
Being born in the Philippines and growing up in Qatar – it’s a mix of cultures that shapes you in unexpected ways. From the vibrant, expressive streets of Manila to the reserved, structured lifestyle of Doha, Lizvel Torres has lived through a rich contrast of worlds. “You see so many differences – in how people speak, dress, eat, even how they express affection,” she says. “It made me very adaptable… but also very curious.”
Why Università Cattolica in Milan?
That curiosity eventually led her to Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Milan – even if it wasn’t part of the original plan. “Italy wasn’t my first choice,” she admits with a laugh. “But when Cattolica accepted me, I took it as a sign and said, ‘Let’s go!’” Now in her second year of the Master of Science in Innovation and Technology Management Lizvel is thriving in a programme that balances business strategy with creativity – a shift from her background in Chemical Engineering. “I didn’t want to stay in the lab forever,” she explains. “This master’s gives me a broader view of where I can go.”
Culture shock, adaptability & growth
Adjusting to life in Italy wasn’t easy at first. “The language was the hardest part,” she recalls. “When I arrived, all I knew how to say was ‘Non parlo italiano’ (I don’t speak Italian). Everything felt unfamiliar – the way people interact, the way they eat. I’m used to having rice at every meal! Here, people look at me like I’m weird,” she laughs.
Still, Lizvel is no stranger to transition. Having grown up between two worlds – the warmth of the Philippines and the more traditional social norms of Qatar – she experienced firsthand how cultures can shape daily life. ‘In Qatar, public displays of affection aren’t common, so you naturally become more mindful of how you behave. Coming to Europe felt very different – but in a positive way. Now, when I see people being affectionate in public, I’m like, “You do you!”
Her first time in Europe, and already she’s making it count.
From spontaneous trips across Italy to wild concert nights in Paris (where she once sprained her ankle before the show and still went anyway), Lizvel has embraced the freedom that comes with studying abroad. “My study schedule gives me enough flexibility to travel on some weekends – and I try to make the most of every opportunity!”
Career connections and classroom to industry insights
Still, it’s not all travel and pasta. One of the most rewarding parts of her experience as a Master of Science in Innovation and Technology Management student, has been meeting industry professionals through guest lectures and seminars. “We’ve had guest lectures
from managers at top companies – some even offer internships directly. It’s so motivating; you’re learning directly from people in the field.”
Small cohort, big support
Lizvel also found a tight-knit community among her classmates, many of whom are also international students. “We really bonded. Now we’ve got this little group – different backgrounds, different stories, but one big support system.”
“When people ask what makes Cattolica special, I always say: it feels like family.”
What’s next?
She’s still figuring out her next steps – ideally staying in Italy, improving her Italian, and finding a job in innovation or tech management. But for now, she’s soaking up every moment. “Living here is such a blessing. Yes, I miss Filipino food – and yes, it’s three times the price here – but the experience? It’s priceless.”
Advice for future international students
“If you’re looking for more than just a degree – if you want to grow, meet people from all over the world, and experience life from a whole new perspective – Università Cattolica is the place for you.”