How a Pakistani Student Received the Fully Funded Erasmus Mundus Scholarship to Pursue a Master’s in Interdisciplinary Mathematics Across Italy and Germany

My name is Sania Ejaz, a 23-year-old Erasmus Mundus Scholar (2023–2025) from Pakistan. Currently, I am in the final semester of my Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) in Interdisciplinary Mathematics at Technische Universität Hamburg (TUHH), Germany. As an Erasmus scholar, I had the privilege of studying in at least two European countries, completing my first semester at the University of L’Aquila, Italy, before moving to Germany.

Being physically disabled, pursuing higher education at an international level was a dream come true for me. The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship not only provided me with an opportunity to study in world-class institutions but also empowered me to break barriers and challenge societal norms. My journey is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the belief that education knows no boundaries. Through this program, I have grown academically, professionally, and personally, and I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams regardless of the challenges they face.

Educational Background

Before embarking on my journey with the Erasmus Mundus program, I completed my Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from COMSATS University Islamabad, where I was honored with the Campus Silver Medal in recognition of my outstanding academic achievements. My final year research was centered on Multiparameter Persistent Homology, integrating machine learning techniques with topological data analysis to advance cancer cell detection.

Beyond academics, I actively engaged in and organized co-curricular activities, which strengthened my confidence, enhanced my critical thinking, and refined my problem-solving and teamwork skills. My professional experience with international organizations and NGOs further shaped my perspective, equipping me with strong technical writing and effective communication abilities.

With a solid mathematical foundation, research expertise, and a diverse professional background, I was well-prepared for the interdisciplinary and multi-country experience that the Erasmus Mundus program offers.

How Did you Prepare to Apply for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship?

Applying to the Erasmus Mundus program required careful planning and strategic preparation. I researched multiple programs that aligned with my academic goals, ensuring they provided a balance of theoretical and applied mathematics. I prepared a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP), highlighting my previous research, leadership roles, and motivation for pursuing this program. Additionally, I ensured my CV reflected my academic achievements, research contributions, teaching experience, and voluntary engagements, aligning it with the program’s expectations. Lastly, I secured strong recommendation letters from professors who could vouch for my capabilities and potential contributions to the program.

Before settling on Erasmus Mundus, I explored other scholarships, including the DAAD and the Fulbright scholarship. However, Erasmus Mundus stood out due to its global recognition, full financial support, and multi-country experience. The competition was intense, as the selection process involved evaluating thousands of applications worldwide. What made my application stand out was a well-structured SOP that demonstrated my passion for mathematics and its real-world applications. My strong academic record, coupled with diverse experiences in research, teaching, and leadership, resonated well with the program’s objectives and ultimately contributed to my selection.

Could You Briefly Discuss the Erasmus Mundus Program You Pursued and the Specific Field of Study It Focused On?

I pursued an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Mathematics (INTERMATHS), specializing in Computational methods in Imaging. This prestigious program provided me with the opportunity to study at TUHH in Germany and the University of L'Aquila in Italy, each offering a distinct academic perspective on applied mathematics. The curriculum seamlessly integrated theoretical foundations with hands-on applications, equipping me with the expertise to address complex challenges in medical imaging and computational statistics. This experience not only deepened my technical proficiency but also broadened my understanding of how mathematics can drive innovation in diverse scientific domains like robotic surgeries.

How Did the Cost of Living Vary Across the Countries You Studied In? Which Country Was the Most Affordable or Expensive, and How Did You Manage Financially?

The cost of living varied considerably across the countries where I pursued my studies. In Italy, residing in a smaller city made expenses relatively affordable, whereas in Germany, the cost of living was slightly higher, particularly in terms of accommodation and daily necessities. Effective financial management required careful budgeting, which was facilitated by the Erasmus Mundus scholarship. This funding provided a monthly stipend and a separate annual travel allowance, both of which were sufficient to cover my living expenses and travel. Additionally, the scholarship fully covered health insurance and university fees, alleviating significant financial burdens. To maintain financial sustainability, I strategically utilized student discounts, university resources, and cost-effective housing options, ensuring a well-balanced and financially prudent academic experience.

Did You Face Any Language Barriers, and if So, How Did You Overcome Them? Did the Language of Instruction Change From One Country to Another?

Since the program was conducted in English, I did not face academic language barriers. However, daily interactions in Italy and Germany sometimes required basic knowledge of the local languages. To overcome this, we had compulsory introductory language courses in the first two semesters and used translation apps to navigate daily life. Engaging with local students and immersing myself in cultural activities helped me gain a better understanding of the languages and adapt more easily.

Would You Recommend the Erasmus Mundus Program to Others? What Advice Would You Give to Someone Considering This Scholarship?

Absolutely! The Erasmus Mundus program is a fantastic opportunity for students who seek world-class education, international exposure, and interdisciplinary learning. The scholarship provides financial support, making high-quality education accessible.

My advice for prospective applicants is to start early. Spend time crafting your Statement of Purpose (SOP), CV, and other documents carefully. I believe that for this scholarship, a strong academic background, a well-structured CV highlighting extracurricular activities, and a compelling letter of intent explaining why you are the best fit all play an equally crucial role in the selection process. Find the best program for yourself and thoroughly study their website to understand their requirements. Tailor your application accordingly, include relevant details, and avoid oversharing unnecessary information.

Looking Back, Would You Have Done Anything Differently During Your Time in the Program?

Looking back, if I had the chance to do anything differently during my Erasmus Mundus journey, I would have focused more on networking and industry collaborations. While the program provided an excellent academic experience, I realized that actively engaging with professors, researchers, and professionals in my field could have opened more opportunities for internships, research collaborations, and potential career paths.

Another aspect I would have approached differently is language learning. Although English was the primary language of instruction, daily interactions in Italy and Germany sometimes required basic knowledge of the local languages. While I took introductory courses, immersing myself further in language learning earlier on would have helped me integrate

Finally, I would have documented my experiences more thoroughly—whether through blogging, vlogging, or personal reflections—to share insights with future students considering the Erasmus Mundus program. This would have helped me create a meaningful resource for others while also allowing me to reflect on my personal and academic growth.

Overall, while I have no regrets, being more proactive in networking, language learning, and self-reflection could have added even more value to my Erasmus Mundus journey.