A new academic year has begun at our university, but we, the 3rd-year students of the Faculty of Philology majoring in Russian Language and Literature, fondly recall the Pomeranian University in Słupsk, where we spent a semester studying as part of an academic mobility program.

Five months in Poland became much more to us than merely continuing our studies in another country. It was a time of discovery, independence, new connections, and deep immersion into a different linguistic and cultural environment. We became acquainted with the Polish educational system, attended classes related to philology, linguistics, literature, and media, and were able to see our knowledge in a completely new context.

Travel held a special place in our journey. We had the opportunity to explore various corners of Poland and Europe, learn about their history and culture, and, most importantly, learn to see travel not just as a change of scenery, but as a way to broaden our worldview. Every new city, university lecture hall, conversation in another language, and even everyday situations became a meaningful part of our experience.

As future philologists, it was especially valuable for us to find ourselves in an environment where language and culture exist beyond textbooks. Polish was spoken around us every day, and literature, history, and cultural identity acquired a living, practical dimension. This experience inspired us to look at our profession and the possibilities of a philological education with fresh eyes.

Returning home, we brought back not only knowledge, photos, and memories—we also became more independent. Poland did not replace home for us; on the contrary, the distance helped us appreciate even more deeply the value of the place we always want to return to.

We are grateful to our university, Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University (Abai University), and the Pomeranian University in Słupsk for their trust, support, and the opportunity to live through this unique chapter of our student life. For us, academic mobility has become an experience that will continue far beyond our return—in our knowledge, professional interests, memories, and drive to keep moving forward.