Name: Susan
Country of origin: USA
Field of studies: Medicine
Who are you? Briefly describe yourself (where do you come from, what do you study, etc.)
Hello! My name is Susan, I’m 21 years old and I’m from the United States. I was studying psychology in college in the U.S. before I came to Poland to study medicine.
What has surprised you in Poland?
Poland has surprised me in a lot of ways. I’m surprised by how much I like the language and want to learn it, how the sun completely disappears in the winter time but the summertime has perfect weather with lots of places to walk to and outdoor cafes to sit with friends and have a cold drink. I’m surprised by how many historical places there are to see in Poland and how beautiful the Tatra mountains in Zakopane are (my favorite place). Also, I love all of the foods here that are different from the American food I’m used to, I love poziomki, pierogi z jagodami, and rosol.
How did you come up with the idea of studying in Poland?
I decided to come to Poland to study because it gave me the chance to start medical school right away instead of waiting a few more years in the U.S. It is also a cheaper alternative and gives me the chance to experience life in Europe as well.
Do you remember the first days of studying in Poland? Describe the struggles you went through:
The first days of study here were exciting and stressful. I’ve had to do a lot of adjusting to how things are done here because they differ a lot from the U.S. But it’s always good to put yourself in new situations and challenge yourself, so it has been a rewarding experience most of the time.
Tell us about the differences between studies in Poland and studies in the USA:
The professors are much different in the U.S. and things are gone about in different ways. I’d say that school in Poland is more difficult than in the U.S. and more is demanded of you. But I have never experienced medical school in the U.S. so I can’t be completely sure. Life is definitely different in Poland than in the U.S. but it has been good to adapt to a new environment.
What do you like about studying in Poland?
I love that I’ve met people from all over the world. It’s been interesting and fun to get to know all of these people that grew up differently than I did. I also like that being in Poland gives me the chance to see the rest of Europe much easier than if I was in the U.S.
Do you know any famous people from Poland?
Pope John Paul II, Chopin, Marie Curie .
Describe the places in Poland, that have a positive influence on you:
I visited Zakopane over the summer and I loved it, it‘s a beautiful place to go and relax. I also lived in Krakow for a couple of months last summer and love it there as well. It has so many beautiful buildings, great restaurants, and nice people. I went to Auschwitz as well and it was such a meaningful experience that I’ll never forget. And, of course, I love Warsaw as well, it was the city I flew into when I first came to Poland last summer and I had a great time there and was welcomed by lots of great people.
Tell us about the country you’ve always wanted to visit, but still haven’t:
I’ve always wanted to visit India and Italy. I have been to Rome but can’t wait to see the rest of the country, especially Tuscany. From what I saw of Rome, it was such a beautiful place with so much culture and history and delicious food. But I also really want to see Slovakia where I have family and, of course, Paris!
Are you a member of any student’s club or organization? Tell us something about it:
Since it is only my first year, I do not belong to any clubs, but maybe in the future.
Would you like to come back to Poland in the future? Why?
Of course, besides, I kind of have to considering my degree takes 6 years!
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