“I gained valuable experience in Heidelberg”

Prof. Dr. Massimo Vedovelli, linguist and Rector of Università per Stranieri di Siena (University for Foreigners of Siena), Siena, Italy

When, how long and in which capacity did you stay at Heidelberg University?
I received a scholarship from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) for two semesters in the academic year of 1978-1979.

Why did you decide on Heidelberg University?
At the time I was working on a sociolinguistic research project to find out how Italian guest workers in Germany learned the German language. One of the leading research groups in this field was coordinated by professors Wolfgang Klein and Norbert Dittmar of Heidelberg University. I spent my two semesters here working in this research team.

What were some of your experiences in Heidelberg?
During my stay at Heidelberg University I learned a lot about scientific research, especially about its theory and methods.

How did your career progress after your stay in Germany?
After my return to Italy, I did research on the immigration of foreigners into Italy, a new phenomenon at the time. I worked at the universities of Calabria and Rome and later became professor at the University of Pavia and the University for Foreigners of Siena. I have been Rector of the University for Foreigners since 2004.

Do you recommend a research stay at Heidelberg University to your students and fellow scientists?
Yes, of course! I hope that Italian students of my university have the opportunity of spending time at Heidelberg University, especially within the scope of Erasmus exchange projects.