It has always been my dream to go to a European country because of the varied cultural exchange. I completed my Bachelor of Architecture from Bharath University, Chennai and I wanted to get out of my comfort zone at home and explore the world outside my country.
Most people go to the US for pursuing further education away from India. But I preferred Europe. The primary reason I chose Europe is that all I would need is a single visa to travel to other European countries. There is also a student exchange programme called ‘ERASMUS+’ which allows students to travel to other European countries to experience different cultures, and learning with people with different approaches. As part of this programme, people from various universities across Europe visit Poland every year.
I chose Gdansk University of Technology in Poland for my education, which is the largest technical University in the Pomerania region. It is one of the oldest technical universities in Poland. Its architecture department has been ranked among the topmost in Europe and Poland. It is very well known for its neoclassical architecture, and is the sixth most beautiful university in Europe. Gdansk is a city filled with students and they are the front and centre of the city, and are found in every nook and corner.
Wholesome
I am currently pursuing my masters in architecture here and it is simply amazing. The students and faculty are always open to fresh ideas, and are very encouraging. The faculty takes architecture to a whole new dimension with their teaching methods which always include a lot of group work. Despite being the only Indian in my department, I feel included, and part of the group. I have made a lot of friends from various parts of Europe who have helped and supported me all along.
While the education is definitely the best, that is not the only thing Poland has to offer. The cost of living here is much lower compared to most other countries. The whole city has special discount prices exclusively for students. Trams, buses and trains — all of these make it a very well connected place and ensure hassle free transit. The food here is varied, easily available and above all, tasty. The Polish make traditional dumplings called ‘ pierogi ’, which always remind me of ‘ kozhukattai ’, a delicacy from my community back home in India. The people are hospitable, warm and welcoming as a summer breeze and they always try to make foreigners feel at home.
Another thing about Poland is the language, which is one the most beautiful languages I have come across. With its beautiful and tidy beaches, top class education and affordable living, it is one of the best places to live in.
Gokulnath Vasudevan is currently pursuing his Masters in Architecture in Gdansk University of Technology, Gdansk, Poland
