Pictured (l-r): Alberto Mondazzi and Professor Gerardine Doyle

Waking up before dawn to attend classes at the renowned Bocconi University in Milan, Alberto Mondazzi commuted three hours a day while also competing as an elite runner in Italian national competitions.

“In order to grow and improve academically, athletically and professionally, I faced a very challenging situation for years, working hard every day to excel,” said Alberto.

“Ultimately, I believe it’s your passion that drives you to bring out the best in yourself and achieve your goals. Therefore, I tried to focus, not only on the final target, but also on the journey and enjoy it.”

His perseverance paid off as he graduated with first-class honors from Bocconi University, one of the world’s top ranked business schools. During this time, he also competed for the Italian Athletics National Team winning the Half Marathon National Championship in 2020, which was the third national title of his career. To acknowledge his efforts and achievements both in the academic and sport environments, he was honored with the University’s Dean’s Award for the 2019-2020 academic year. However, in Italy, student athletes receive little to no support and sporting facilities are lacking at collegiate level.

“As my academic and athletic aspirations became higher, I began to search for a school where I could continue to excel in both areas,” said Alberto.

Pictured (l-r): Assoc Profesor Andrew Keating, CEMS Academic Director and Alberto Mondazzi

His search led him to him to UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School where he applied for the School’s CEMS Masters in International Management Programme—ranked 3rd in the world by the Financial Times and in turn Ireland’s highest ever ranked business programme.

“I chose the programme because of its great international exposure and reputation. Furthermore, I really value the combination of theoretical and practical approaches, beyond the opportunity to select my electives based on my career interests and across a wide range of disciplines.”

Alberto’s outstanding academic record earned him a place on the renowned programme, but it was his proven dedication outside of the classroom that made him eligible for the UCD Graduate Sports Scholarship Programme. The scholarship programme is specifically for students who are competing and succeeding at the highest sporting level–nationally and internationally–while simultaneously completing a post graduate programme at UCD. The scholarship supports athletes in their pursuit of sporting and academic success.

“I really appreciate the attention UCD pays to student-athletes and the atmosphere and culture in the UCD Sports team,” commented Alberto. “Coaches and athletes are very passionate and experienced, and they are committed to help you express your best.”

“Thanks to this scholarship and the great athletic facilities, I realized that UCD is the best place to help me achieve both my career and athletic goals.”

Recently, Alberto topped the table at the elite ‘Streets of Clane 5k’ clocking in blistering lap times and a final time of 14 minutes and 35 seconds and he competed in the Varsity National Cross Country Championships in Dublin. “It was very motivating to see the whole team in action and witness how united and committed everybody is.”

Alberto’s goal for the 2022 season is to run a 10,000m under the 28 minute barrier, to medal at the World University Games in China next July and to make a marathon debut in New York next November.

“After graduation, I aim to work for a multinational corporation that is committed to make a remarkable impact on people’s lives. I believe that the teamwork, leadership and management skills I’m acquiring at UCD will enable me to make my best contribution to the company’s success.”