A Voice for Change: Francesco’s Story

Leaving home and starting a new life abroad is never easy but for Francesco, an H-FARM International School alumnus now studying in the UK, it has been a journey of growth, service, and leadership.

“While it was definitely hard, simply because I was moving to a different country, I have to say that I felt prepared,” he explains. “By neutralizing the biggest challenge, the language, everything else fell into place quite quickly. Being an H-FARM student really helped me.”

Looking back, Francesco recognizes that the Diploma Programme gave him more than just academic knowledge: it equipped him with the mindset and skills needed to thrive at university.
“While I underestimated it at the time, the DP really helped me understand how universities in the UK work, especially when it comes to assignments. I definitely found that very useful.”

When Francesco first arrived in the UK, volunteering started as a simple way to meet new people. “I wanted to get to know others and connect with the community around me,” he says. But what began as a small step quickly became a passion and a defining part of his life.

Since his first year, Francesco has been actively involved with Undeb Aberystwyth, the students’ union. “I started by just helping out,” he explains, “and for the past two years I’ve stood in elections and been elected as Chairperson of the Union. That made me really appreciate student democracy and the work that goes into fighting for students’ rights.”
He also volunteers with St John Ambulance Cymru, which he describes as “an experience that made me appreciate the value of lifesaving skills.”

Among his many experiences, one moment stands out vividly:
“The most emotional moment was last summer, when through my volunteering with Cymru Sport, a local radio, I became an FAW-accredited commentator. It allowed me to watch Italy–Wales live, where I got to see the girls win 4–1 before their amazing run at the Euros. I was even interviewed by BBC Sports Wales. It was an unforgettable moment!”

When asked which project has inspired him the most, Francesco mentions New Narratives, an initiative by the Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Service (DDAS). “It trains students to deliver peer-to-peer clinics on drug awareness. The idea is that, for someone in a vulnerable situation, it might be easier to open up to another student first. It’s all about harm reduction and that approach really inspired me.”

If he could start his own social project, Francesco would focus on a challenge he knows well: creating opportunities for non-athletic development in sports.
“As a student who plays sports, I’ve noticed there are few chances to learn how to coach, referee, or manage a team. I’d love to build something that helps students grow in these areas too.”

For Francesco, volunteering is not just an activity, it’s a mindset.
“At its core, volunteering means giving back to the community and not letting your time sit stale. It’s about saying yes to opportunities to do something meaningful, even small thing, because why not?”

The best advice he’s ever received still guides him today:
“Before I came to university, someone told me to use it as a chance to reimagine myself and to never say no to things. Worst case, remember that you’re in a new country, nobody knows you, so take every opportunity to make the most of it.”

As for what’s next, Francesco’s ambitions remain clear and driven by the same spirit of engagement:
“My next step depends on what happens in March. I intend to run in the election for the Opportunities Llywydd position in my Students’ Union, a one-year role responsible for sports clubs, societies, and volunteering projects. After that, I plan to return to Italy for my master’s degree and eventually pursue a career at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. If I don’t get elected, then that return just happens a little sooner!”

Francesco’s story perfectly embodies the values of Language Success and Global Citizenship that H-FARM International School aims to instill in its students: curiosity, service, and the courage to make a difference wherever life takes them.