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1. Why did you choose Croatia as your study destination?

Dance has been a part of my life since I was a child, so choosing where to continue my education was a very important decision. I chose Croatia because the Contemporary Dance programme at the Academy of Dramatic Art in Zagreb has an excellent reputation and offers exactly the kind of artistic and professional environment I was looking for.

Another advantage was that Croatia is close to my home country, Slovenia, which made the transition to living abroad a little easier. At the same time, studying in another country gave me the opportunity to become more independent, meet new people and experience a different academic environment.

2. Take us back to your first days in Croatia. What were your first impressions, and was there anything that surprised you?

I remember feeling excited but also a little nervous. I come from Jesenice, a much smaller town in Slovenia, so moving to Zagreb felt like a big change. It was also my first time living away from my family, so everything was new, from finding my way around a big city to adapting to a different daily routine.

What surprised me most was how quickly I felt welcome. My classmates and professors were very friendly and supportive, which made settling in much easier than I expected. Since Slovenian and Croatian are quite similar, communication wasn't too difficult, but I also realized that understanding a language and confidently speaking it are two different things. Every day helped me become more comfortable.

3. What is student life like for you?

I live in private accommodation in Zagreb, just a three-minute walk from the Academy, which makes my daily routine much easier. Living on my own has taught me to become more independent and responsible. I cook, organize my own schedule and balance classes, rehearsals and everyday responsibilities. It has been a valuable experience that has helped me grow not only as a student, but also as a person.

Although I am currently the only international student in the Contemporary Dance programme, I have felt very welcomed by my Croatian classmates. They accepted me from the very beginning, and I have made wonderful friendships that made adapting to a new country much easier.

Whenever I have free time I especially love wandering through many beautiful squares in Zagreb, each with its own atmosphere and charm. One of my favourite places is Zrinjevac Park, where I often sit on a bench and draw. It is my favourite way to relax and take a break from everyday student life. My favourite building is the Croatian National Theatre, which I can see from my apartment. It has become one of my favourite views in the city. Living in Croatia has given me the opportunity to discover beautiful places that I probably wouldn't have visited otherwise.

4. What do you enjoy most about living and studying in Zagreb/Croatia?

What I enjoy the most is living in a city that offers so much, even though my studies keep me very busy. Zagreb is a lively city with a rich cultural scene, but it also feels safe and comfortable to live in. During the week, I spend most of my day at the Academy attending classes and rehearsals, so I don't have much free time. That's why I really appreciate weekends, when I can slow down and enjoy everything Zagreb has to offer.

As a dance student, I appreciate being surrounded by creative people who inspire me every day. I also enjoy how easy it is to explore the city on foot, discover new cafés, museums and performances, and experience different aspects of Croatian culture.

5. Have you learned any Croatian during your studies? If so, how has it helped you in your everyday life?

Yes. Since Slovenian and Croatian are similar languages, I could understand quite a lot from the beginning. However, studying in Croatia has helped me become much more confident in speaking Croatian.

Today I can communicate much more naturally in everyday situations, at university and with friends. Being able to speak the language has helped me feel more connected to the people around me and has made daily life much easier.

6. How has your experience in Croatia influenced you, both personally and professionally?

This experience has helped me grow in many ways. Personally, I have become much more independent, responsible and confident. Living abroad taught me how to solve problems on my own and adapt to new situations.

Professionally, studying at the Academy has challenged me to think more creatively and has introduced me to new artistic approaches and ways of working. Every class encourages me to keep learning and developing as both, a dancer and a person.

7. What advice or message would you share with international students who are considering studying in Croatia?

Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Moving to another country can seem overwhelming at first, but it is also an incredible opportunity for personal growth.

Be open to meeting new people, learning the language and experiencing the culture. You don't have to be perfect from day one. Everyone feels uncertain in the beginning, and that's completely normal. If someone had told me a year ago that Zagreb would start feeling like my second home, I probably wouldn't have believed them. But today, that's exactly how it feels.

8. Has studying in Croatia changed your plans for the future?

It has strengthened my confidence in pursuing a professional career in dance. It has also made me more open to international opportunities in the future.

Living abroad showed me that I can adapt to new environments, so I no longer see working or studying in another country as something intimidating. Instead, I see it as an exciting opportunity for further growth.