These are 4 things you need to know before starting Erasmus in Poland, which make your stay easier! In Poland Are you ready to start on an adventure of a lifetime? Poland’s becoming a top spot for Erasmus students, and it's easy to see why! Its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and rich history will make your study abroad experience unforgettable. Picture yourself strolling through the picturesque streets of Kraków, sipping coffee in a cozy café in Warsaw, or exploring the medieval charm of Gdańsk. The opportunities to dive into Polish traditions, make lifelong friends, and soak up new perspectives are endless!
But before you pack your bags and jump on that plane, there's one crucial thing to keep in mind: preparation is a key! Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, but a little planning will smooth the procees. From understanding the university system to budgeting your living expenses, being well-prepared will not only ease your transition but also help you fully enjoy everything Poland has to offer. So, buckle up, and let’s dive into your ultimate guide to studying in Poland!
How Universities in Poland Are Structured? The university system here is pretty straightforward and offers a variety of programs to fit your academic goals. Most universities follow the Bologna Process, which means you’ll find a clear structure with three main degree types: bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Bachelor’s Programs: These usually last about three years. You’ll dive into your major right away, so be prepared to explore your subject and get your hands dirty with projects and assignments.
Master’s Programs: If you want to level up your education, master’s programs typically take another two years. Here, you’ll go deeper into your field, often with opportunities for research or specialization.
Doctoral Programs: For those ready to become experts in their field, a PhD can take anywhere from three to five years. Expect to spend a lot of time on research and writing your dissertation.
In terms of how classes are organized, you can expect a mix of lectures, seminars, conesatories, and group projects. Lectures are held in traditional large auditoriums, where professors share their knowledge, while seminars, conesatories are more interactive, letting you discuss topics with your peers. Group projects are also common and are a great way to make friends while learning how to collaborate effectively.
Respect Local Customs: In Poland, it’s customary to use titles when addressing professors, like “Mr.” “Mrs.” "Prof." "Dr." unless they invite you to do otherwise. This shows respect and helps you fit in with the local culture.
Use Email Wisely: If you have questions or need to discuss something, sending a polite email is often a good first step. Keep it clear and concise, and remember to include a subject line that reflects your message.
Office Hours Are Your Friend: Most professors have designated office hours when you can drop by and ask questions. This is a great chance to get personalized help or clarify any doubts you may have.
Remember, your professors were students too, and they want to see you thrive. So, don’t be shy—reach out, ask questions, and take advantage of the resources available to you! Studying in Poland is an good opportunity, and with a little preparation, you’ll be well on your way to making the most of it.
Poles are very positive when you even try to speak our language, so go ahead and try! It will certainly be very much appreciated in everyday situations. Learning a few basic Polish for sure will help you connect more with locals. Here are some useful phrases to get you started:
Cześć! (Hello!) Hej! (Hi!)
Dzień dobry! (Good morning!)
Jak się masz? Co tam? (How are you?)
Proszę. (Please.)
Dziękuję! (Thank you!)
Przepraszam, gdzie jest…? (Excuse me, where is…?)
Poproszę menu. (I’d like the menu, please.)
Ile to kosztuje? (How much does it cost?)
Jesteś piąkna! (You are beautiful!)
Practicing these phrases can build your confidence and make it easier to engage with the local community. Don’t be shy! Polish people appreciate it when you make an effort to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words. For more Polish phrases check this article: https://pepehousing.com/blog/10-must-know-polish-phrases-for-international-students
The good news is that many young Poles speak English, especially in urban areas and academic settings. You’ll likely find that students, professors, and shopkeepers can communicate in English, making your transition smoother. However, while you can get by with English in the cities, knowing some Polish phrases is still beneficial, especially in more rural areas where English proficiency may be lower. Familiarizing yourself with the basics not only helps you navigate day-to-day life but also shows respect for the local culture and opens doors to deeper interactions with the people you meet.
Poland is rich in cultural traditions and holidays that reflect its deep history and values. Christmas and Easter are two of the most significant celebrations, marked by unique customs and family gatherings. For Christmas, you might experience the Wigilia dinner on Christmas Eve, where families share a traditional meal, break opłatek (thin wafer), and exchange heartfelt wishes. Easter is celebrated with festive food, including decorated eggs and special breads, and it often involves a lively outdoor water fight on Easter Monday known as Śmigus-Dyngus.
Differences in Communication Styles
When it comes to communication, Poles tend to be more direct than in some other cultures, which can sometimes surprise newcomers. However, this directness doesn’t mean rudeness - maintaining politeness is still essential. You might find that while they speak openly, they expect the same respect in return.
Getting around Poland is a piece of cake, thanks to its super-efficient public transportation systems! In major cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław, you'll find a well-connected network of buses, trams, and trains. These modes of transport make it easy to explore everything from historic sites to buzzing neighborhoods. Plus, they're are veryyy affordable. With many attractions located close to public transport stops, you can hop on and off with ease as you take in the sights and sounds of these beautiful cities.
And don't forget about student discounts! Most cities offer special ticket prices for students, which can save you a lot of money. You can also find monthly passes, which are ideal for frequent travelers. Just remember to have your student ID with you, as you'll need it to unlock these sweet deals. With these tips, you'll be ready to explore Poland without any transportation hassles!
Getting around Poland is also very easy thanks to very well connected high quality trains. Using Polishtrains at a low price, you can reach any major city in Poland in comfortable conditions. In ICC trains you will also find a restaurant car where you can eat delicious food or drink a cup of coffee. Remember that you have a student discount - 50% on every trip!
In conclusion, Erasmus in Poland is a fantastic opportunity to explore the country and experience the local culture and beautiful countryside. Enjoy every moment, meet new people, discovering nightlife and stay open to new experiences! Don't hesitate to travel, make lifetime friendships and create lasting memories during your stay in this beautiful country. Poland is waiting for you to discover all it has to offer!
