Every semester with the Erasmus+ program is not just about studying, but a life-changing journey. It is a chance to step outside the familiar classrooms, immerse oneself in a new culture, find friends from all over the world, and, most importantly, discover new facets of oneself.
The Erasmus+ academic mobility programs open the doors to the world's best universities for students of Poltava Polytechnic, providing a unique experience that combines learning, cultural enrichment, and personal growth. Vladlena Demikhina, a Master's student at the Faculty of Philology, Psychology and Pedagogy, took advantage of just such an opportunity, spending the spring semester at one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in Europe – Complutense University of Madrid, which traces its history back to the 13th century, and is not only the oldest in Madrid but also the second largest in the world. It is a valid academic city with a robust research base, 30 libraries, unique archives, and even its own Botanical Garden, where about 90,000 students from all over the world study annually, gaining knowledge from 6,000 internationally renowned professors.
The university was founded in 1293 when a royal charter was obtained to open a Studium Generale, as universities were called in the Middle Ages. The new educational institution was named El Estudio de Escuelas and opened in the city of Alcalá de Henares, which was known in Latin as Complutum.
Two centuries later, the approach to the education system changed. The status of Complutense University of Madrid was confirmed by a papal bull in 1499. It gained international recognition and was renamed Universitas Complutensis. The higher education institution moved to Madrid in 1836.
Complutense University of Madrid (Spain) has a city campus so large that a public bus runs through it. The district is even named after it: Ciudad Universitaria. It has everything needed for study and research: university clinics and hospitals, laboratories, studios, and 38 research institutes.
According to Vladlena, studying in Spain is significantly different from the Ukrainian system and motivates self-development: “The learning process is built on students' independent work. We studied the material at home, and the lectures were held in the format of lively discussions with the professor and group assignments. A great deal of attention is paid to independent research and presentations”, – the student shares. “Thanks to this, I gained invaluable knowledge in linguistics and significantly developed my language skills. Through the Erasmus+ program, I made new friends not only from Spain but also from France, Mexico, Belgium, Denmark, and Italy.
But Erasmus+ is not just about studying; it's about full immersion in a new culture. Madrid became a special place for Vladlena, captivating her with its atmosphere: “Madrid is a city that fascinates with its architecture, atmosphere, and spirit of antiquity. Here, every street tells its own story, and every corner of the city hides incredible views”, – says Vladlena.
The epicentre of student life for her was the central square, Puerta del Sol, where young people from all over the world gather daily. It was here that Erasmus student meetings, themed evenings, karaoke, and language exchanges took place, fostering lively intercultural communication.
When she wanted to escape the city's hustle and bustle, Buen Retiro Park became the perfect refuge: “It's a huge green oasis where you can enjoy peace and the beauty of nature. The park has hidden 'secret gardens,' a lake where you can rent a boat, and an old pavilion where it's pleasant to have a cup of coffee”.
A special place that combines history and romance was the Temple of Debod – an ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain by the Egyptian government in 1968 as a token of gratitude for the help provided in saving the Abu Simbel temples from flooding during the construction of the Aswan Dam. “From there, you get one of the best sunset views in the city, and live instrumental music creates a romantic atmosphere”, – Vladlena shares.
One of the most vivid impressions for the student was the Spanish people and her new friends from all over the world: “The Spanish are extremely open, friendly, and emotional. They will always greet you with a smile, hugs, and two kisses on the cheeks; they are always ready to help. I felt at home in Spain”, – says Vladlena. “Thanks to this mobility program, I made new friends from France, Mexico, Belgium, Denmark, and Italy. It's an incredible experience”.
At the end of her semester, Vladlena shares a piece of advice for those who are still hesitating: “Even if you, like me, have to go alone, don't hesitate. Yes, there may be some difficulties at first. Still, the experience gained, new friendships, and positive impressions will eventually compensate for everything, because Spain is a country you truly want to return to! I am very grateful to National University “Yuri Kondratyuk Poltava Polytechnic” for such a unique opportunity to study abroad, develop my knowledge and skills, and get to know the world.
Vladlena's story is a vivid example of how a semester abroad becomes much more than just studying. It's about the courage to step out of your comfort zone, openness to new things, academic growth, and, no less significantly, human connections that know no borders. Her experience is inspiring and proves that the opportunities provided by Erasmus+ are worth overcoming any doubts. National University “Yuri Kondratyuk Poltava Polytechnic” is proud of its students and continues to create all the conditions for more such success stories to emerge.
Recently, three students from the Polytechnic completed their studies at the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, two international relations students finished their studies in Prague, and two second-year Polytechnic students shared their impressions of studying with Erasmus+ in Vienna.
Media Centre of
National University “Yuri Kondratyuk Poltava Polytechnic”
