On June 19th, the Department of Sociology and Social Research (DSSR) at the University of Milano-Bicocca hosted the ASEP Day Qualifying Paper Discussion, an internal event dedicated to the presentation and critical review of doctoral candidates' early-stage research.

The qualifying paper represents a key milestone within the PhD in Analysis of Social and Economic Processes (ASEP). It marks the conclusion of the program’s first academic year and reflects the candidate’s ability to frame a research problem, engage with relevant literature, and begin formulating a coherent methodological approach. ASEP Day provides a structured context for presenting this work to faculty and peers, facilitating formative feedback at an early yet pivotal phase of the doctoral process.

The morning session, chaired by Marco Terraneo, included four presentations:

• Anna Loi examined literature on digital competence among students with migrant backgrounds, with commentary from Marco Romito.

• Althea Bianca Dal Ben presented a historical account of family dynamics and educational outcomes in Italy, discussed by Maurizio Pisati.

• Sofia Ercolanoni offered a theoretical overview of competences as an educational paradigm, with Dario Pizzul as discussant.

• Davide Marchi reviewed research on the digitalisation of mobile workplaces and its workforce implications, with Valentina Pacetti providing feedback.
  
  

The afternoon session, chaired by Alberta Andreotti, featured:

• Ivan Blancato's analysis of teachers' labor market conditions and job satisfaction, discussed by Giorgio Piccitto.

• Maria Luisa Zucchini Solimei's paper on local social policy through the lens of multi-level social investment, with comments from Ruggero Cefalo.
  
  

Overall, ASEP Day 2025 offered a space for constructive scholarly exchange. While informal in tone, the event remains an important opportunity for doctoral researchers to test their ideas, clarify theoretical frameworks, and engage with feedback from experienced faculty. It also helps consolidate the ASEP program’s collective identity by fostering dialogue across cohorts and research areas.