My Erasmus exchange at the Technical University of Košice (TUKE) was nothing short of transformative, blending academic advancements with personal growth and cultural exploration. The inclusive and supportive environment at the Faculty of Aeronautics allowed me to engage with cutting-edge facilities like the A320 flight simulator and collaborate with professors and Slovak students alike, making learning both practical and immersive.
Rating of Erasmus experience
Studying abroad, more in particular Slovakia, wasn’t the first thing I considered when I started my Master Degree. This opportunity came to me suddenly and, how slovak people say: “Žazdý vlak príde len raz”. Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to complete my Erasmus exchange at the Technical University of Košice (TUKE) in Slovakia, one of the most prestigious universities in the country. My time at the Faculty of Aeronautics was a well-rounded experience, from academic advancements to personal growth and cultural exploration.
The Faculty of Aeronautics at TUKE stands out for its highly practical approach to education. Each class began with a solid theoretical foundation, followed by immediate application to real-world professional scenarios. The courses were engaging and relevant, designed to equip students with essential skills for the aviation industry. One of the highlights was working with state-of-the-art facilities, such as the A320 flight simulator and air traffic control simulators, which gave me firsthand experience and insight into aviation operations.
I also had the unique opportunity to visit an aerospace design company located near the airport. This visit was incredibly enlightening, providing a glimpse into the professional world of aeronautics and showing how our studies translate into industry practices. Additionally, the faculty offered collaborative seminars with a brand new partner university in Hungary, which broadened our academic exposure and encouraged valuable cross-cultural exchanges.
Another advantage was the flexibility in scheduling exams and presentations. The professors were approachable and highly supportive, always ready to resolve doubts and ensure students could perform their best. The inclusive nature of the faculty also stood out, as Erasmus students were invited to join classes alongside Slovak students, enhancing our integration and sense of belonging.
Beyond academics, my time at TUKE was marked by immense personal growth. The faculty created an environment that encouraged international students to engage actively and feel included. For example, we were given opportunities to work on projects in class with professors, which allowed us to receive immediate guidance and support. This interactive learning experience was incredibly beneficial, especially when dealing with complex software tools that were completely new to me.
I also connected with a vibrant international community, meeting people from various backgrounds and cultures. This network of friends made the experience even more rewarding, as we explored Slovakia together, shared our challenges, and celebrated our achievements.
Although the Faculty of Aeronautics is located a bit far from the city center, geng there was surprisingly easy thanks to the exceptional public transport system. The buses and trams in
Košice were reliable, frequent, and some of the best I have encountered in Europe. This made commuting a breeze, ensuring that even the location’s distance never felt like an obstacle.
Overall, my Erasmus experience at TUKE’s Faculty of Aeronautics was nothing short of life-changing. The combination of practical education, supportive faculty, and a welcoming international community made it an enriching journey both academically and personally. I left Slovakia with new skills, cherished memories, and friendships that will last a lifetime. I would highly recommend this experience to any student considering an Erasmus adventure, as it offers unparalleled academic opportunities and a unique cultural immersion.
