Education: Unlocking new opportunities

Life Before University: Exploration and New Hopes

Before enrolling at YSU, during my school years, I was interested in the arts, dance, and handicrafts. However, my boundless enthusiasm for foreign languages guided me toward choosing a field that aligned with my interests. I realized that deepening my knowledge in languages and communication could open new doors for me. Thus, I decided to pursue my studies at YSU Faculty of European Languages and Communication, aiming to deepen and expand my linguistic and communication skills. This decision became my first step into the promising world of higher education at YSU.

Bridge to New World Through Education

During my early years at YSU, there were moments when I questioned whether I was truly prepared for the great responsibility that comes with university life. Knowledge, skills, opportunities—I highly value even the smallest chances offered to students, as they contribute to both professional growth and personal development. One such exceptional opportunity was the Erasmus+ program, which became one of the most significant achievements of my university years.

Through this program, I had the privilege of spending a semester at the University of Lisbon in Portugal. This experience not only broadened my academic and cultural horizons but also enhanced my linguistic and communication skills, strengthened my adaptability, and expanded my worldview.

Studying abroad was a remarkable opportunity for me, not only from an academic perspective but also in terms of personal growth. My first impression was overwhelmingly positive—the red rooftops of Lisbon and the warm, sunny climate immediately gave me a sense that this experience would be unforgettable.

During my studies, I improved my Portuguese to some extent; however, the language barrier was never an obstacle, as many people spoke English. This journey provided me with invaluable knowledge and skills while also teaching me to be more independent, adaptable, and open to new opportunities.

Beyond Borders: Exploring New Educational World

During my studies, I actively participated in class discussions, took notes, and engaged in various academic activities. For instance, our philosophy of art classes followed a question-and-answer format, making them highly engaging. In English classes, we frequently took part in debates, while in French classes, we explored French literature, read diverse books, created presentations, and even prepared video reports. What stood out the most was the high level of student involvement in each lesson, fostering critical thinking and active participation. Moreover, exams were manageable as long as we thoroughly reviewed the material and prepared in advance. Student life there was vibrant and filled with new opportunities.

Spending a semester at the University of Lisbon allowed me to observe several key differences between YSU and European education systems. One major difference was the flexibility students had in selecting their courses based on their academic interests, enabling a more targeted and personalized learning experience that encouraged independence. Additionally, there was less emphasis on homework, with a stronger focus on group discussions and independent research. Unlike YSU, where theoretical knowledge prevails, the educational approach in Lisbon was more practice-oriented.

Despite these differences, I found the professors at both YSU and the University of Lisbon to be very similar in their dedication to supporting students, both academically and personally. This experience reinforced my belief that education should not be limited to theoretical knowledge alone; it must also encompass practical skills, collaborative approaches, and personalized guidance to foster students’ overall development.

Studying abroad offers an invaluable opportunity to gain knowledge beyond traditional coursework, experience new cultures, broaden one’s perspective, and establish valuable international connections. 

Enhancing Skills Through Education

I am fully committed to continuing my education and further advancing my linguistic and communication skills, aiming to make them more polished and applicable across various fields. My goal is to deepen my knowledge of English and French, particularly by increasing their practical use so that I can effectively integrate them into my professional career. Mastering linguistic skills opens new doors in academic, professional, and personal development, laying the foundation for continuous growth and new opportunities.

Additionally, I have a strong interest in learning new languages, as language proficiency enables more effective communication with representatives of different cultures.

At this stage, I have not yet made a definitive decision, but I can confidently say that I will pursue further education in this field. I plan to explore the latest trends in the industry and gain real-world experience that I can directly apply to various projects and professional endeavors. Special attention will be given to professional training programs and workshops, as they play a crucial role in strengthening my competencies and preparing me to face the challenges of the professional world as a highly skilled specialist.