Miguel, JEMARO Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree, Class of 2024

What’s your name and where do you come from?

My name is Miguel and I come from Elche (Spain).

Before JEMARO, what and where did you study?

I'm a Robotics Engineer graduate from the University of Alicante, with a BSc in Industrial Engineering from the University of Skövde.

What options were you considering after your Bachelor’s? Why did you choose JEMARO?

Right after finishing my bachelor’s studies, I decided to spend a “gap” year working as an Automation and Robotics Engineer, to find a specialised master’s degree that would enable me to keep up with the latest global developments in robotics. I chose the JEMARO programme because it has different areas of study and various modules that match my academic objectives. Furthermore, I was specially interested in the second year of study in Japan, renowned for its research in the field of robotics.

What is the course you’ve enjoyed the most so far, and why?

The courses I’ve liked so far are the ones related to programming, especially Research Track 1 and 2, where we worked with ROS, and we had a very helpful professor.al.

What is your research topic?

My research topic will be focused on using a VR headset with eye-tracking to treat patients from strabismus and diplopia.

Why did you choose UNIGE?

I decided to choose Unige mainly because I have never been to Italy, and I wanted to learn more about their culture and language (and food ��).

Any cultural shocks since arriving in your home institution?

Many cultural shocks since I arrived in Japan; their culture is very different to Europeans’ one in many ways. They have a huge sense of respect for the others, the nature, and the rules. It has been difficult to adapt in here, and to get used to the way they handle social relationships.

What do you find the most challenging in JEMARO?

The most challenging part was to handle the demanding frequency of assignments especially during M1, and to meet the financial requirements of living abroad. Furthermore, I would say I am not a huge fan of Italian’s organization.

What do you want to do after JEMARO?

I would like to find a job in the robotics industry, preferably in Europe. I feel my academic period has arrived to its end.

A final word?

I encourage everyone who is undecided about applying to the program to do so! It is a life changing experience that has broaden my theoretical knowledge and improved my opportunities in the job market. I learned Italian and I’m currently learning Japanese and I had so much fun travelling and hanging out with many international friends.