Brno, one of Central Europe’s dynamic academic hubs, has increasingly become a preferred destination for international students in recent years. One of these students is Mehmet Arslan from Turkey. Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Political Science at Masaryk University, Mehmet shares how he has encountered an entirely different world in terms of both education and personal development.
After being accepted into the English-taught program in 2022, Mehmet moved to Brno. Although the idea of living in a foreign country initially made him anxious, he quickly adapted to the environment thanks to the supportive student structure offered by the Czech Republic. Masaryk University’s modern academic environment, interdisciplinary curriculum, and opportunities for political research have further deepened his interest in the field.
According to Mehmet, the Czech education system is highly disciplined yet student-oriented. “Here, students are not expected to just attend lectures and leave. There’s a strong emphasis on a culture of debate, and every student is encouraged to develop a researcher’s mindset,” he says. This approach has helped him significantly improve both his theoretical knowledge and critical thinking skills.
From a daily life perspective, Brno is a peaceful yet vibrant city for Mehmet. The high number of students creates a lively social atmosphere. Student clubs within the university, academic seminars, and cultural events have enabled him to integrate actively into the community beyond the classroom. Additionally, Brno’s central location in Europe has made it easy for Mehmet to explore neighboring countries.
Mehmet emphasizes the affordability of living in the Czech Republic, stating that it's possible to maintain a healthy and social lifestyle on a student budget. Thanks to the scholarships and dormitory opportunities provided by the state and university, he has been able to focus on his studies without financial worries.
Now in his third year, Mehmet plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Europe after graduation and to specialize in international relations and diplomacy. In the long term, he envisions a career contributing to policy-making processes and international cooperation, both in Turkey and abroad.
Mehmet Arslan’s academic journey in Brno stands as a strong and inspiring example for students considering education abroad. His story proves that intellectual and cultural growth is possible in Europe and serves as a source of motivation for students with global aspirations.
