In this heartfelt episode of the Mobility Studies Podcast, host Fardeen speaks with Irini Komparaki—an alumna of the Mobility Studies program and now a dedicated International Desk Officer at the University of Padua. Irini opens up about her journey from a young volunteer in intercultural youth exchanges to a professional supporting international students far from home. She shares the defining moment when she knew she had found her calling, the emotional and logistical challenges students face when arriving in a new country, and the quiet strength it takes to support others while managing your own uncertainty. From culture shock to language barriers, from fragmented migration policies to the importance of building community—this conversation is as honest as it is inspiring.If you’ve ever felt out of place, or wondered how to turn your international experiences into meaningful work, this episode is for you.

Credits
Artist: Anitek
Track: Glenn
2025