The magic of studying in Poland – an unforgettable educational journey filled with academic enrichment and intercultural exchange

Hrisi Markova recently returned from a three-month educational
exchange in Warsaw, Poland, through the Erasmus+ program. What inspired you to
accept this offer to study abroad?

“One day, during a meeting with my thesis advisor, Assoc. Prof. Stela Baltova, to discuss my upcoming thesis, she suddenly asked if I wanted to go to Poland. At first, it seemed like a great offer but unexpected, which made me think. After she explained the idea of the mobility program between universities, I was sure I would accept. A few days later, I confirmed my departure, and two weeks later, I was already there. I spent three very different, interesting, and exciting months.”

What were your first impressions of Poland and the university there? How
did you adapt to the new environment, and what kind of people did you meet
along the way?

“Like any beginning, it was difficult because I didn’t know the place or the people, but that quickly changed. To my great joy, I met people who paid me a lot of attention and quickly introduced me to the environment. After that, everything became easier. I met many different people from various nationalities, each unique and special in their own way.”

Tell us about the university. What were your relationships like with
the professors and your colleagues from different nationalities?

“The university was large and spacious. It had a library, sports hall, pool, and other facilities. There was also a dining area, and the dorms were on campus, making it very convenient to get to classes. The professors were understanding and very good. They worked with people from all over Europe and beyond. We had colleagues from Africa and Asia as well.”

What was the education like, and what benefits did you gain from it?

“During the education, we had the opportunity to attend lectures in a hybrid format. Sometimes from designated rooms at the university, and other times online. We had quite a few different projects to work on. This allowed us to develop our potential and see in which direction we would like to focus more specifically in the future.”

What did you like most about the city, and what were your favorite
places to visit?

“In my free time, I loved walking around and getting to know the city. Like any place, I found my favorite spots that I visited regularly. We often gathered by the river, where there were places for relaxation and fun. Another spot we frequently visited was the old town.”  

What is the most exciting memory you’ll keep from this experience?

“I will definitely remember this period of my life and always consider it one of the most exciting. I will keep the warm memory of what I experienced there, the friendships I made, and the emotions I felt.”

What would you say to your colleagues and students who are hesitant to join such a program?

“I am grateful to my supervisors and my university for giving me this unique opportunity. I encourage all colleagues and students who have not yet taken this step to do so and live their Erasmus+ story.”