Why students from Anadolu University choose Poland for Erasmus?
Magdalena Ochal
Personal Erasmus Experience
My own Erasmus experience began in September of last year. As a European student, I could have chosen a country closer to Poland, but I convinced myself and everyone around me that Turkey was the most incredible option. In Eskisehir, I met many people who were more than happy to share their experiences of having been in my country for their Erasmus.
Attraction to Poland
After some thought, it became clear why Turkish students might be attracted to Poland. The Polish zloty (PLN) is a less expensive currency than the Euro, making Poland one of the cheapest countries in Europe. Its central location also offers easy and fast connections to other countries. However, these are just general reasons. Students I spoke with had chosen Poland as their Erasmus destination without knowing much about its culture, language, cities, or currency. Their Erasmus Coordinators, videos from Anadolu University, or university staff who had already been there helped them understand why it was a good opportunity. In the end, they all had fun, interesting, and incredible memories of Poland.
Yusuf’s Experience in Słupsk
Yusuf, an English Teaching student from the Faculty of Education, chose a small city called Słupsk. He expected Poland to be affordable but ended up participating in many events like Juwenalia, the annual festival of Polish Universities. He even found a piece of his culture at the Kebab Centre where he often ordered a medium kebab with fries, a tasty alternative to Iskender or Durum. Despite initial doubts, Yusuf found Poland unexpected and enjoyed outdoor parties and campfires in the green areas around the city. Although the Baltic Sea was cold for a Turkish person, he appreciated experiencing it.
Katayoun’s Experience in Warsaw
Katayoun, a Journalism student from the Faculty of Communication Science, chose the capital city, Warsaw. She anticipated a top-ranking European university and discovered a place she described as freedom. She didn’t travel much to other countries but enjoyed visiting well-recommended places like Gdańsk and Kraków. She felt very comfortable everywhere she went, appreciating the organized, spacious environment.
Can’s Experience in Wrocław
Can, a Ceramics student from the Faculty of Fine Arts, selected Wrocław, one of the best cities for artists. Known for its nearly 350 little dwarfs scattered around the city, Wrocław offers a unique tourist experience. Can enjoyed looking for these dwarfs and the city’s vibrant nightlife, which features many clubs and bars playing techno music, a favorite among Turkish students. He also participated in Poland’s tradition of starting barbecues in May, an experience he described as worth it.
The Allure of Poland
Many people I met in Turkey, including in Eskisehir, had little knowledge of Poland, its language, or its culture. However, I can assure you that you will not be disappointed. My best memories include canoeing on rivers with friends, sleeping in tents, and hiking in the mountains. Poland is ideal for those who appreciate history and nature.
Eskısehir ın Europe 