INTERVIEW WITH DM ANASTASIA KARAHANIDIS

Hello, introduce yourselves 🙂

My name is Anastasia Karahanidi. This year I graduated from the Medical University of Plovdiv.

Why did you choose to study medicine at MU – Plovdiv? What was the decisive factor in your choice?

From a young age I had an enthusiasm. Both my parents are doctors. That’s why I made the decision to study medicine. I wanted to continue my studies abroad. Besides the knowledge and degree in medicine, I wanted to learn how to solve my own everyday problems. I am from Athens and live with my parents. I wished to meet new people and different cultures. Increasing my English level was important to me so I chose a course of study in English.

I did my research and found that the tuition fees for studying medicine on an English-language course in Bulgaria were lower than in other European countries.

I chose the University of Plovdiv, not only because of the beautiful city, but also because I wanted to get a really good education and I decided that this university could offer me that.

What was the biggest challenge during the application process?

I didn’t have any. With the help of SB-ACADEMY, all the necessary application documents were prepared and submitted to the university on time. The organized preparation classes provided me with the necessary knowledge to pass the entrance exam successfully and without stress.

How did you deal with your adjustment abroad? What was the most difficult at first? What were the main challenges?

The challenges in adjusting to medical studies were related to the fact that the training was in English. I had to learn Bulgarian at the same time to be able to cope with everyday activities. The beginning of the semester was difficult for me to navigate the university’s websites and environment, but that is why we received additional information from SB-ACADEMY, which was very helpful. After that I gradually started to get used to studying medicine in the English-language curriculum.

Tell us something about the university and the city where you lived and studied?

Plovdiv is the second largest city in Bulgaria and a great place to spend your student years. The city can certainly offer great career opportunities for young people in all fields.

The city is full of historical and cultural attractions. Various festivals are constantly organized. In addition, I should say here that the university itself organizes many cultural activities.

What is the cost of living?

My living expenses are not high. I lived in an apartment with one bedroom and a living room with a kitchenette. My monthly expenses for rent, electricity, water, telephone, internet and all other personal expenses were 800 E per month. Food here is not expensive compared to other countries in Europe and the supermarket selection is great. My only expense for university is the annual tuition fee of E8000.

Did you take the opportunity to work while you were studying? If so, share what.

I didn’t take the opportunity to work during my studies because if you study medicine, pharmacy or dentistry, your curriculum is busy. In addition, you need to spend at least 1 hour every day to review the material after your university courses are over.

What advantages do you see in studying abroad? Is the academic process different? What is your opinion of the teaching team?

I was impressed by the great willingness with which the university’s professors work. They seem to really want to teach us a lot of things and whenever one of us needs help, they get it. The organisation of the university is also very good, despite the difficulties with the online semesters. I also like the fact that from the beginning they emphasize practice and the doctor-patient relationship, which will help us a lot in our future professional development.

What advice would you give to prospective students considering studying abroad?

I would advise them to be bold in their decision and really choose the field they want to pursue.

Why you chose SB-ACADEMY and how did we help you?

I chose to apply with SB-ACADEMY because I wanted to make sure that all the paperwork regarding my application would be in order. As I already mentioned, they helped me with preparing the documents and applying to the university, as well as many other tips. The company offers and provides assistance to students not only regarding university application and admission, but is there for students throughout their studies. They have been there for me, for all of us in every problem and difficulty. I would not hesitate to recommend SB-ACADEMY to prospective students in Bulgaria.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

You are amazing! Keep giving joy to the young people from Greece and Cyprus and give them courage to move forward.

Thank you and we wish you every success!

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