Lucia Luzi from Italy

I gained my BSc in Geologic Survey in Italy, and it was attending a short course on GIS conducted by an ITC staff member (Prof. Andrea Fabbri) in my hometown that drove me into the field of geo-information science. My MSc in Geologic Survey dealt with landslides triggered by earthquakes, and GIS techniques played an important part in my study.

My experience at ITC was fantastic − first of all because I entered the amazing world of geo-information science at a time when it was fast evolving (I started my MSc in 1994). Everything was so new and modern compared with my university.

When I was doing my MSc, I was offered the opportunity to continue with a PhD. However, I preferred to return to Italy and go on with my temporary position − which soon became a permanent one, thanks in part to the experience acquired at ITC. I am now a senior researcher at the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, where I am responsible for national and International projects. Recently I also became responsible for one of the ORFEUS working groups, in De Bilt, so now I can continue my contacts with the Netherlands.

I use GIS principally to study the variability of ground motion induced by earthquakes. I have few plans regarding my job at the moment, as I live and work in Italy and in this country hopes are slender for people working in the field of research.

In principle, I would say that studying and living abroad is an excellent experience. You have the opportunity to get to know other cultures and make good connections that can last for the rest of your life. If you are interested in the field of geo-information, ITC is one of the best places where you can study because it represents excellence in this field.