"Even though Wrocław is a city with around one million inhabitants, it has become too mundane for me. After high school, I was accepted to a university in Copenhagen, Denmark. But a week before the start of the semester, due to personal challenges, I decided to stay in my hometown. Looking back now, I realize that the real reason was fear of the unknown and immaturity," the Kaja explains. Already in high school, she knew that she wanted to work with people, especially children. At first, Kaya thought about studying pedagogy or English philology but then decided on physiotherapy as it combined her love for children and science. At the same time, the profession indicated many job opportunities in Europe.

"While studying physiotherapy at AWF in Wrocław, I was constantly thinking about life abroad. One of my friends suggested me to join the Erasmus exchange program. We chose Slovenia, specifically Maribor, even though we knew nothing about the country or the city. Starting the study exchange in March 2022, we were surprised by how much practical knowledge Alma Mater offered us. We were really well received, and the Erasmus+ coordinator Nuša was very helpful all the time. Studying at Alma Mater was simply a dream, and at the same time, the city of Maribor also made a great impression on me. After just one month, I knew I wanted to extend my studies at Alma Mater and stay in Maribor. The decision was further strengthened by love - I fell in love with a boy from Slovenia.

Together with my Erasmus friends, we traveled all over Slovenia and beyond. We organized many trips by car because it was the best way to see the country. We fell in love with the diversity of Slovenia's nature and the positivity of its people. I started learning Slovenian during the holidays, as I knew it was a must if I wanted to stay in Slovenia. So far, I understand Slovene very well, and I hope to speak fluently soon. During my studies, physiotherapy became my passion. I am currently interning at the Center for Sensory Integration, Neurodevelopment, and Spec. Physiotherapy, whose director is lecturer Patricija Goubar. Working exclusively with children has provided me with various practical experiences and further expertise in pediatrics.

The Erasmus study exchange at Alma Mater was one of the best decisions of my life!"