Jacopo Di Vanno came to the Czech Republic from Italy and has been studying at Palacký University for five months now, with another semester ahead. Although Palacký University was his second choice for exchange programme, he says he definitely does not regret his decision of coming here. Read more to find out why!
Why did you choose our university for your Erasmus study experience?
To be honest, Palacký University Olomouc was my second choice. I could not find all the courses I wanted to attend because in Olomouc, Sport Science is more involved in Measurement and Adapted Physical Activity but leaving that aside (and also the bureaucracy and paperwork), if I reflect deeply on what the first semester gave me, I can say that I made the right choice coming here!
Were your expectations different from the reality?
I did not have any expectations. I left my city without knowing anything (except of course the basic information like the name of the dormitory, the courses I chose and the academic calendar). I just thought: “Ok, Olomouc will be the last year of my Master’s degree, let’s do it!”
Can you compare your study experience in Olomouc with the experience from your home university?
One of the differences I found, and I really liked it, is that here the lessons are made with less students than in Italy. The quality of the teaching, like everywhere, depends on the attitude, love and interest of the teacher. Here, I have met good teachers and as I told one of them, I am very glad to have learnt what “curiosity” is – in my personal opinion it is the basis of study.
What is your favourite course and why?
My favourite course of the winter semester was Wellness and Fitness. The teacher is one of the best I have ever had, the syllabus is very detailed and connected to our, maybe, future profession. With this course, I have learnt that I cannot be superficial in this career and neither in life. Physical activity and sport in general are science fields and they should always be treated that way because it changes people’s health and their lives.
What were some of the biggest challenges you had to overcome as an Erasmus student?
My biggest challenge I think was to face the distance. I am a lucky guy because I have made important work experiences all over the world (Beirut, Bruge, Kiev, Liege, Moscow), but it was my first living-abroad experience. I was used to having my family, my friends, my routine with me. Deciding to leave meant going outside of my comfort zone but I recommend this to everyone, not only to students. Another challenge was to face one of my weaknesses: the English language. I studied English previously but now I realize how important it is to be considered a part of this world.
How do you spend your free time?
I usually spend my free time by playing football. Here, I was able to find some contacts and have trainings with the Futsal Team of University SK UPOL, I took part in some trainings with two different teams and I am trying now to get registered in order to play more. Otherwise, I like to read some books in my free time, go to the gym, to clean my house (room), to go out for conversations, maybe to have a good coffee... And I take some time to make an order in my life in general because sometimes we do things only because others do them.
What is the single most memorable experience you have from your Erasmus life?
My best memory of this first semester is the trip organized by ESN (I recommend you to follow them because they are very nice, they organize always interesting things to do) to Tatra Mountains in Slovakia. Nature, hiking, good moments, good group, it was very special for me!
Have you changed because of your Erasmus experience?
I think that I have changed, because this was that moment for me – the moment to change and I was able to capture it. I have changed because now I know more about myself. I have changed because sharing a flat with other 4/5 people (sometimes more) of course changes you. The hardest thing is to notice it but I am sure that every student at the end of the Erasmus+ period could say that they have changed!
How can this experience benefit your future career?
This experience will give me lots of benefits, first of all, confidence in my language skills. I feel that now I can go everywhere and everyone will understand me speaking in English. Another benefit is my attitude because I feel more involved in changes; I developed the ability of problem solving, I am more responsible and focused on my goal.
Would you recommend the study at the Faculty of Physical Culture, Palacký University Olomouc to your friends? Why?
I would recommend Palacký University Olomouc to all my friends. Olomouc is a true student city. Transportations, building, libraries, facilities, they are all very functional and it is full of places to discover. History, art and music, Olomouc has it all.
In conclusion...
If you are a student and you are asking yourself whether to go study abroad or not, the solution is of course to GO!
