Salome Tvildiani
Academia Ignatianum in Krakow (Poland)
Salome Tvildiani, Bachelor program student of Political Sciences, studied Spring semester of 2022-2023 academic year at Academia Ignatianum in Krakow, Poland. Her mobility was implemented in the frame of Erasmus+ ICM program. Salome talks about her experience gained in Poland.
Salome, how your expectations regarding this exchange program was justified?
When you dream of studying abroad all your life, you always have very high expectations. The expectation that you will meet new people who will later become inseparable parts of your life, as well as that you will gain immense experience, learn to better understand and see your own strengths and weaknesses, deepen your knowledge in the field that interests you. In my case, all my expectations were met, I met a lot of people from different cultures, I got a tremendous amount of education in my favorite field and I learned to appreciate my own abilities, I also learned to live independently.
What was the main benefit from this program for you?
The exchange program has many benefits. For example: the exchange program allows you to get to know different cultures, traditions and expand your horizons, make friends from different countries of the world. Of course, improving a foreign language, which is one of the important factors of exchange programs.
Which personal skills did this program help you improve?
One of the main skills I have improved is independence. Being away from my familiar environment required me to become self-reliant and independent. I learned to make decisions on my own and take responsibility for my actions. I also developed the ability to adapt to different environments. I learned to quickly adapt to different circumstances, accept changes and find ways to solve problems.
Which professional skills did this mobility help you improve?
During my stay in Poland, I have developed research and analytical skills. Engaging in academic or field research within the program allowed me to improve my skills in data collection and its analysis, literature review, and synthesis of complex concepts. Moreover, the program helped me to develop critical thinking skills. Being exposed to a wide range of perspectives and engaging in discussions on various topics has improved my ability to formulate and evaluate arguments. Which is very important in my profession.
What are the advantages of participating in an exchange program? Why should a student participate in such a program?
I think a student should definitely use their student life to participate in an exchange program because it provides a transformative experience that goes beyond traditional learning. It offers a chance to discover a new culture, get to know a new environment and make friends from different cultures. The exchange program promotes personal growth and self-discovery. Students become independent, confident and discover their own abilities. Moreover, participating in an exchange program allows students to build a global network of friends and colleagues. These connections provide a platform for future collaboration and cross-cultural understanding.
Compare student life in Georgia and abroad.
The life of students in Georgia and abroad are not so different from each other as the education system. The educational system of Georgia has its strengths, but there are notable differences when compared to the educational systems of some European countries. I think one of the main advantages of European education is its emphasis on a holistic and multidisciplinary approach. European universities often provide students with courses and opportunities for interdisciplinary studies, which allow students to study a field of interest to them and get a well-rounded education. In addition, European universities often prioritize research and innovation, widely use the latest technologies in educational activities, and encourage the development of research-oriented thinking in students.
Your recommendation to other students who wish to participate in the exchange program
The main recommendation would probably be to set clear goals. Define what you want to achieve through the exchange program. Whether it's improving your language skills, gaining specific academic knowledge or expanding your cultural understanding, having clear goals will help you make the most of your time abroad. Also create connections and networks. Take advantage of the opportunity to network with classmates, professors, and professionals in your field of study. Attend social events, join clubs or organizations, and participate in extracurricular activities. These connections can be valuable for future collaborations and career opportunities. Finally, get out of your comfort zone: Be open to the discomfort and challenge of stepping out of your comfort zone. Pushing your limits not only grows you as a person, but also gives you a broader and richer experience.
Complete the sentence: If it weren't for this exchange program, I would ...
If it wasn't for this exchange program, I would never have had the experience of living on my own.
Would you add something?
I would like to add that I am very grateful to my home university, Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani University, because I think that I would not have been able to get such an experience without this university.