Towards Smaller, Lighter, and More Transparent AI

For many reasons, this journey has not been easy.I am certain it has helped me to grow not only professionally, but also as a person.My deepest thanks go to everyone who supported me over the years and to my colleagues at the SmartData Lab.Together, we shared three unforgettable years and experiences that extended far beyond the academic growth.My only true regret is not becoming a Trashball Maestro, but knowing the title has passed to Luca Vassio still gives me peace, it is in excellent hands.A special thanks goes to Matteo, with whom I shared many passionate debates about the future of LLMs (and much more), but who also made going to the office a true pleasure.My thanks also go to Nik, Tailai, Kai, Giordano, Francesco, Gabriele and Andrea, the friendship we built has remained strong.I also want to express my gratitude to Luciano, whose guidance over the years was invaluable.Finally, I am deeply grateful to my parents.Despite the significant challenges we have faced, we are still standing, changed, but stronger.I truly believe the future will repay every sacrifice we have made.