Major: Political Science and International       Relations
  Exchange program: Erasmus traineeship
  Age: 22
  Hometown: Lviv, Ukraine

Hello everyone! My name is Andriana, and I am from Ukraine. I am 22 years old and currently completing my internship exchange at the international office of Pázmány Péter Catholic University. I’m a fourth-year Political Science student at Ukrainian Catholic University, which provided me with the opportunity for this Erasmus traineeship.

I came to Budapest from Ukraine for three months, studying and working here, which allows me to experience student life from a new perspective while representing my home country. This isn't my first student exchange; I previously participated in Erasmus programs in Sevilla, Spain, and Seattle, USA (GDAScholarship). However, this is my first internship exchange. It is an honor to work in Pázmány’s international office, where I interact with talented youth from across the globe, participate in various student activities, conduct interviews, gather people, implement new ideas, and discover something new every day. However, I am constantly reminded of those who couldn’t join us. Some of my friends and fellow students in Ukraine have lost their lives due to the Russian war. Those who survived face a life full of instability and uncertainty. Despite these challenges, Ukrainian students continue to persevere, dedicating themselves to their studies and to the dream of a free, thriving Ukraine.

For me, the war is a reality that shapes every aspect of life. So, when I arrived in Budapest, I was pleasantly surprised by how welcoming and understanding my coworkers have been. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be part of their international office team. This is my first job, and I cannot imagine a better experience than this. I am also currently studying and writing my thesis on the internationalization of higher education, which makes this traineeship even more valuable in terms of my studies. Additionally, my coworkers allow me the time for my classes during working hours, so I feel no pressure about it. This was a significant factor in my choice of internship. But the most important aspect is the atmosphere in the international office and the immense support I receive from my coworkers. I feel very thankful to them, as well as to Pázmány University and the Erasmus Traineeship program, for providing one of the best periods of my life here in charming Budapest!