Benedetta is sixteen and studies applied sciences at the Liceo Scientifico Primo Levi in Badia Polesine (Rovigo). Her favourite subjects are chemistry, biology and anatomy; her dream is to become a doctor. She has been practicing karate for nine years. In 2016, she participated in the European Championship, although she says she “was too young to position well.” Over the years, however, she has often stepped on the podium and this year she has been participating in the World Cup qualifiers.
Benedetta is also an ambassador for Factor J, the project promoted with Janssen Italia to increase the young generations’ trust in science, raise awareness on the importance of correct scientific information and the choice of responsible behaviour for everyone’s wellbeing and health.
What drove you to become an ambassador for Factor J?
I began participating in the courses organised by Factor J, but two webinars were all I needed to decide I wanted to become a project spokesperson. I love science, but the project attracted me for another reason: it’s a 360-degree voyage to the discovery of illness. And a lot of space is given to the patients’ point of view. I think this is very useful for all those like me who will have to relate to patients (I hope!).
Do you think that participation in Factor J webinars can help with everyday life?
Yes, I think so. Learning more about science provides us with the opportunity of participating in discussions with classmates and friends who do not have our same opinions. I believe that discussion is the best way for people to overcome differences together.
According to The Economist - Some British children have been changed by covid-19, probably for good – adolescents have been changed irreversibly by the pandemic and lockdown, especially the school ones. What do you think? Has distance learning permanently changed the way in which you interact with your classmates?
I started high school in September 2019. So, I only had 7 months of “normal” school life. Then, in March 2020, the pandemic exploded, and it was hard. We were not able to experience the full potential of school. However, I don’t believe that this change is irreversible. And the relations we created in the first months grew stronger over time. Slowly, but they did.
What did you learn from these difficult years?
I learned not to undervalue moments that may seem banal, like life at school, which there was little of over the past years. If there is one thing the pandemic has taught me, it’s to fully enjoy every moment.
