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Alona Kriuchka – Erasmus+ study mobility – incoming student from Poltava V. G. Korolenko National Pedagogical University (Ukraine)
Studying at the University of Zagreb through the Erasmus+ exchange programme was a very important experience for me. I am a student at Poltava V. G. Korolenko National Pedagogical University (Ukraine), and I chose the Faculty of Teacher Education (UFZG) for my exchange studies. It is one of the oldest teacher education faculties in Croatia, with an excellent reputation for preparing future teachers using modern teaching methods.
The learning process was interesting, intensive, and highly practical. In almost every class, we completed practical tasks, worked in groups, discussed different topics, and applied our knowledge in practice. I was also pleased to learn that Ukrainian has been taught at the University of Zagreb for many years. One of the main goals of the programme was to improve our English to the C1 level, so a great deal of attention was given to communicating in English.
All the lecturers were friendly, approachable, and always willing to help. They did not simply give lectures but encouraged students to express their own opinions, ask questions, and work independently. This teaching approach made learning more engaging and motivated me to continue developing my knowledge and skills.
During my studies, I lived in the Dr. Ante Starčević Student Dormitory. The accommodation was comfortable, and the monthly fee was only €82, which is very affordable for students. Another great advantage was the student dining system. With a student card, I could buy a full meal in the university cafeterias for less than €1. This made it possible to eat well while saving money.
Life in Zagreb was very active and exciting. Thanks to the Erasmus+ programme, I met students from many different countries. We worked together on assignments, completed group projects, and communicated in English every day. This experience helped me develop teamwork skills, better understand other cultures, and become more confident when communicating with people from different backgrounds.
The ESN also played an important role in student life. It organised city tours, social events, cultural activities, and trips. These activities helped international students make friends, adapt more quickly, and feel at home in a new country.
I would recommend studying at the Faculty of Teacher Education to anyone who wants to become a modern teacher, improve their English language skills, and gain international experience. The programme offers not only valuable academic knowledge but also opportunities to develop teamwork, public speaking, critical thinking, and practical teaching skills.
Verena Stihler – Erasmus+ study mobility – incoming student from Pädagogische Hochschule Freiburg (Germany)
I am studying Adult Education and Continuing Education within the Master’s programme in Educational Science. I chose this Faculty because my home university has a cooperation agreement with the host university, which allowed me to take courses that could be recognised and credited in my home university transcript. This was especially important as my specific study programme does not exist at the host university.
My academic experience was overall very enriching. There were around fifteen international students, and most courses were attended together with Croatian students, which created a positive and authentic learning environment. Although the Faculty mainly offers courses for teacher education students, studying from a different academic background broadened my perspective. Attendance is mandatory in almost all courses, which initially surprised me, but teaching methods were varied and engaging, including lectures, group work, presentations, and independent learning. In some cases, courses only for international students offered a more relaxed atmosphere. Throughout my stay, I also received excellent support from professors, coordinators, and administrative staff, who were always helpful and approachable.
Organising my courses required independence, as students need to arrange their own schedules and communicate with professors individually. Planning was sometimes challenging due to overlapping courses, limited options, or cancellations, especially since courses are offered separately in winter and summer semesters. To ensure I could earn enough credits, I also took courses at the Faculty of Business through horizontal mobility, which provided a good academic balance and variety.
I lived in a shared flat found through Facebook, paying around 450 € per month. It was close to the city centre and well connected by public transport, which is reliable, affordable, and convenient for students. Social life in Zagreb was one of the highlights of my Erasmus experience. The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) organised numerous activities, which made it easy to meet people and engage with the international community. The city’s café culture and central location also allowed me to travel to six different countries during my stay.
The cost of living in Zagreb is generally affordable and slightly lower than in Germany. Student canteen meals cost around 1 €, although vegetarian options were somewhat limited. Despite some organisational challenges, my Erasmus stay offered a very valuable combination of academic growth, cultural experiences, and personal development, leaving me with lasting memories and international connections.
