Arrival in Poland Marks New Chapter for Veritas University Students
Stepping off the plane into the crisp Polish air, five representatives from Veritas University began a transformative journey as exchange students in Poland. Our experience as Erasmus students in Toruń has rapidly evolved from a daunting leap into the unknown to a rich tapestry of shared experiences, valuable learnings, and unforgettable memories.
Adapting to a New Climate
Transitioning from the warm climate of Nigeria to Poland presented an immediate shock, as the temperatures dropped to a chilly 8-9 degrees Celsius upon our arrival and plummeted to -2 degrees after sunset. Upon interacting with local students, we were surprised to learn that they had managed to thrive in temperatures as low as -20 degrees just a month earlier.
Initially bundled in layers of clothing, our resilience to the cold gradually transformed into an appreciation for the unique Polish winter. As the weeks passed and the seasons shifted toward spring, we began to enjoy the beauty of our new environment.
A New Perspective on Everyday Life
Wandering through the city, the initial chill gave way to admiration for the orderly rhythm of life in Poland. Unlike the vibrant energy of our home, we observed a calm serenity in daily activities. It quickly became apparent that walking on footpaths is a serious cultural norm; even with empty roads, individuals patiently awaited the green light before crossing.
The mesmerizing orderliness extended to traffic; cars adhered diligently to their lanes, regardless of congestion. This meticulousness is mirrored in public transportation, where a local app named Jakdojade provides precise tracking of bus and tram schedules, allowing passengers to plan their journeys down to the minute.
Exploring Culinary Adventures
The intriguing cultural differences also extended to our culinary experiences. Initially, we considered dining at the campus hotel’s restaurant but quickly realized that prices exceeded our student budgets. Driven by financial prudence and a longing for the flavors of home, we decided to cook for ourselves.
Equipped with new cooking utensils, our first visit to local supermarkets like Auchan, Biedronka, or Lidl felt like navigating a maze. Google Translate transformed into our essential tool as we aimed to decipher product labels and make informed choices during our shopping trips.
Discovering Recycling Practices
A surprising aspect of shopping revealed itself at the checkout counter. Unlike in Nigeria, where groceries are typically packed in free nylon bags, we were required to purchase reusable bags. Additionally, we discovered Poland’s impressive recycling culture. When buying drinks in plastic bottles or cans, a deposit fee is charged, which is refunded upon returning the empty container to a recycling machine, promoting environmental responsibility.
Cultural Immersion through Hospitality
While embracing Polish cuisine, we were graciously welcomed with a traditional lunch organized by the Academy. The hearty bean soup, adorned with crunchy breadcrumbs, provided comfort against the cold, while the main course offered a fusion of local and familiar flavors. As we savored the meal, we enjoyed a meaningful conversation with the Academy’s President, who engaged genuinely with our aspirations and motivations for choosing Poland. This authentic welcome made us feel truly valued.
Enriching Academic Environment
Our academic experience at AKSiM has been equally enriching. Classes held in the Academic Hotel foster an atmosphere of deliberate learning, with professors incorporating short breaks during longer lectures. This small but impactful practice allows us to absorb critical information more effectively, and the smaller class sizes ensure personalized attention from instructors who are invested in our progress. It’s an environment where no student feels overlooked.
Building Lasting Connections
Erasmus exchange is not just about academics; it centers on the people we connect with. Our group of 21 Erasmus students has become a close-knit, multicultural family comprised of individuals from Nigeria, Namibia, Kosovo, and Ukraine. Together, we navigate cultural differences, sharing laughter and moments over card games and discussions. Our vibrant residence echoes with the sounds of friendship, as we bond through play and shared experiences.
Seeking New Adventures
The spirit of exploration is pervasive among our peers, many of whom travel extensively across Europe. However, as we look to expand our horizons beyond Poland, financial constraints have limited those opportunities for us. Instead, we focus on immersing ourselves in our immediate surroundings, finding joy in daily experiences. Recently, we enjoyed a memorable group trip to Warsaw with our supportive mentor, Philip, deepening our appreciation for Polish culture while creating lasting memories.
Ultimately, this Erasmus exchange transcends beyond academics; it represents a period of personal growth and resilience. From braving freezing temperatures and navigating unfamiliar grocery stores to embracing new friendships and cultures, we proudly represent Veritas University on this global stage, eager to return home enriched with knowledge and cherished memories.
Adinya is a third-year computer science student at Veritas University, Abuja, currently participating in the Erasmus exchange program in Poland.
