Seven Questions with... Lorenzo Molinari

What are you studying, why are you interested in this subject and what do you plan to do in the future?

I am studying Biomedical Engineering and I am in my final year of a MEng degree.

The main reason why I chose this degree is because it combines the creativity and problem-solving nature of engineers with the empathy and human-approach of biomedical scientists. The types of projects in Biomedical Engineering at UCL are incredible, ranging from creating a mouse controller device for a hand-amputee client, to a smart t-shirt to improve performance for wheelchair sprinters.

Leveraging on my engineering skillset, I am planning to make an impact in the world of Education. I am passionate about educational equality and engineering education and I hope to make a contribution in these fields.

What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at UCL?

The most interesting thing I have done while at UCL was definitely my year abroad. Thanks to UCL Study Abroad, I attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where, not only was I able to explore other areas where Engineering has an impact, such as Financial or Tissue Engineering, but I also met some of the best people in my life whom I will always hold a special place in my heart for.

To mention a few of the amazing things I got involved with while abroad, I participated in the 2019 National Volleyball Competition in Denver, Colorado, attended a national competition for Enactus – a social-entrepreneurship organisation, in Kansas City, Missouri – and I travelled around Canada and the East Coast during Spring Break with other fellow international students!

Have you discovered any hidden gems during your time at UCL?

Although not totally hidden, the Farmers’ Market near the Engineering building is an absolute must. It is full of delicious, fresh and authentic food, and takes place every Thursday. I think I have tried the food from every single stall in there (over the course of three years, of course!) and I genuinely believe that I've never had a bad experience. Give it a try!

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London:

1. Visit Camden Market! It’s an absolutely fantastic place, where different cultures blend together to create an unforgettable experience. The food is pretty good, too!
2. The sheer amount of free museums should definitely not go unnoticed. In very few cities, one is able to explore the main museums at no cost – definitely a good bargain for university students!
3. Get involved with a Sports Association! I play volleyball in the London Spikers Volleyball Club and it is a fantastic way of spending your evening away from work, while playing a sport and getting to know people outside university.

If you were Provost for the day what one thing would you do?

If I were Provost for a day, I would hold drop-in sessions for students. I would want to hear what students have to say with regards to their university experience, so that I would be able to take action on what they feel it is most important for their development and wellbeing.

Who inspires you and why?

My Italian and Latin High School teacher is my greatest inspiration. While discussing Latin and Italian authors, such as Seneca, Giacomo Leopardi or Eugenio Montale, she was able to relate their thoughts to our everyday life, shaping the values and beliefs I strongly align with now. I am still in touch with her and I also make sure to pay her a visit whenever I go back home.

What would it surprise people to know about you?

Although I am Italian, I can’t say I am the biggest fan of pasta and pizza! I love so many cuisines (especially Asian!) and I feel I might have gotten bored of traditional Italian dishes. However, I still can’t handle pineapple on pizza, so I guess I haven’t completely lost my Italian flavour.