Ph.D. Communication Sciences Student Giorgia Arbuti from Italy Shares Her Journey of Studying at Université Savoie Mont Blanc, France

Hi everyone! My name is Giorgia Arbuti. I am from Italy, and I am an MSCA PhD candidate in Communication Sciences at Université Savoie Mont Blanc (France) and at the Università degli Studi di Torino (Italy). My research focuses on how ordinary users engage with generative artificial intelligence to create images, with particular attention to the production and circulation of digital stickers.

I obtained my summa cum laude Master’s degree in Audiovisual Heritage and Media Education at the Università degli Studi di Udine (Italy), with a thesis examining user practices and dynamics on social audiovisual platforms, particularly in relation to content production, consumption, and distribution. During this time, I enjoyed researching and synthesizing different sources in order to deepen existing knowledge on specific topics. For this reason, after completing my Master’s degree, I began seeking a PhD scholarship in order to continue my research on how ordinary users engage with audiovisual tools, both online and offline, as a means of communication.

CHORAL Scholarship Details

In 2024, I was awarded a CHORAL (Cultural Heritage Outreach in Romance Languages) scholarship. CHORAL is a Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie programme co-funded by the European Union and developed within the framework of the UNITA Alliance.

In addition to my monthly salary (in accordance with French regulations), the programme provides dedicated research funding to support my doctoral project, including:

• a mobility allowance of up to €4,500 over the three-year period to partially cover travel and accommodation costs;
• a conference allowance of up to €3,500 over the three-year PhD period to cover expenses related to participation in conferences and workshops;
• up to €5,000 over the three-year period to cover research-related expenses.

Educational Background

During my Master’s degree, I was enrolled as a double-degree student in the International Master's in Cinema and Audiovisual Studies (IMACS). I had the opportunity to spend two semesters at two German universities, Ruhr-Universität Bochum and Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main, where I attended courses that allowed me to deepen my knowledge of transmedia storytelling, user-generated content, and film materialities.

At the same time, I strengthened my academic writing skills, particularly in producing essays and research papers in English. This experience significantly contributed to positioning my profile within an international academic environment and broadening my intellectual perspective.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Université Savoie Mont Blanc?

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Although a B2 level in English was a requirement, I proposed to replace the language certificate with a self-declaration stating that I had completed a Master’s degree in which half of the courses were taught in English. The committee accepted this arrangement.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the CHORAL Scholarship?

To secure admission to the PhD program and the associated scholarship, I carefully developed my CV and motivation letter, clearly demonstrating the coherence between my academic background, my research interests, and the objectives of the position.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because it was carefully structured and easy to read (for example, by highlighting key information in bold and italics) and because I clearly demonstrated how my skills and experiences matched the profile sought.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

I don’t think copy-and-paste applications work, because it is crucial to demonstrate, with specific references, that you are really interested in a particular opportunity. Of course, it is helpful to have a general framework, but you should tailor each application carefully in relation to the call. Additionally, make sure to highlight your international experience and interdisciplinary background as much as possible.