I am Tatia. It will be difficult for me, but I will try to tell you briefly about the magical semester that I spent at Masaryk University in the Czech Republic. The small Central European city of Brno is characterized by coziness and functionality, but it didn't take me long to find out that this characteristic coziness was simultaneously created by folklore and 'Art Nouveau'. The modernist dynamics, joy, and acceptance of the student city were felt not only in the streets of Brno but also in the university and clinics.

The training process was much lighter, more flexible, and focused on developing practical skills and determining the therapeutic management of the patient. Especially interesting was the simulation center, in which we had the opportunity to perform virtual manipulations (diagnosis, sewing, laparoscopy, etc.) using modern technologies. Under the supervision of the lecturers, we could simulate various clinical cases and play the role of a doctor.

 Despite the exciting emotions I get from the robotic system since I have chosen my future specialty, it is more or less difficult for other fields to attract my attention. However, I was left with the feeling of "Freedom in Education" through interactive seminars, emphasizing only the important aspects of a specific subject, and dispelling the illusion of the subject as just a large theoretical reservoir. As I already mentioned, the training process was light. This means that despite the volume of study material, the process of preparing for a seminar, practice, or exam was unusually easy, which I think is thanks to the instructions prepared by the lecturers and students. In them, each topic covered by the syllabus was covered in depth, the necessary literature was given, and the average length of study was indicated. Another aspect that made the learning process easier was the light environment and willingness to help. I often had the occasion when I discussed ideas on a specific issue with the lecturer, and I always received receptiveness and objective, diplomatic, advice from them. In addition, their interest in these ideas further ignited the spark. They also shared, took each innovative idea seriously, and respected different interests. I don't know what you think, but it is important for me and will always remain a good memory of each of them, who further expanded and gave direction to my ideas and most importantly - appreciated enthusiasm.

Because of this, the five months I spent at Masaryk University gave me a great experience and made me realize once again that our interests and ideas of us, young people, are valid and it is our duty to equip ourselves with knowledge as much as possible, to talk, develop ideas and share reality, regardless of how much they contradict the views of others. 

Outside the university, the other half of reality was developing at the same time. This exchange semester wasn't just about catching academic pearls. Friends from all over the world, interacting with them, communicating, sharing culture, many trips, and creating memories will always break my heart every time I remember. Relationships are what bind us, so apart from professional development, the people I met only five months ago contributed a lot to the development of my personality and to discovering even more. It's interesting how much of a role we play in the lives of others, and the fact that I still miss every shared moment emphasizes first that the opportunities available, however few, are precious and should be grasped and used despite the fear. That is why this exchange semester was full of adventures: many obstacles, misunderstandings, right or wrong communication, happy and sad days, leaving the comfort zone to the end, full of unexpected, colorful, and magical news.

An exchange semester can be associated with many problems, confusion, fear, or even disappointment, but it is important to be open to challenges and difficulties. For what you don't know yet and then try your best to look at every given situation as an adventure and make every moment precious.

I hope this brief overview, which certainly does not include a description of all the important aspects or events that I will always appreciate, will ignite the spark that will help you make a decision.