Summer temperatures of up to fifty degrees, the sea and excellent Mediterranean cuisine. Cyprus is a beloved home for Andrea Miltiadous, but she knew from childhood that she would go abroad to study. “I always knew I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and experience something new,” she says. And so she set out to explore her options.
Originally, the UK was one of the most popular destinations for Cypriot students, but the situation changed after Brexit. “If you’re studying a science-based subject like pharmacy, your degree wouldn’t automatically be recognised in Cyprus and I’d have to sit for further exams. I looked for alternatives in Bulgaria, Hungary, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic,” explains Andrea.
Ultimately it was the Czech Republic’s reputation that caught her attention. “In Cyprus, the Czech Republic is known for placing great emphasis on the natural sciences – and that’s exactly what I was looking for,” she says.
Chemistry as a life choice
Pharmacy, which Andrea has been studying for two years now, wasn’t a random choice – chemistry, which is central to the course, was her favourite subject at secondary school. “I wanted to combine science with caring for patients. And in pharmacy, you find chemistry absolutely everywhere,” she says with a smile.
She has no regrets about her decision and particularly appreciates the practical focus of the course. “Fifty per cent of the teaching is practical. I enjoy working in the laboratory and I like the fact that I can get my hands on things straight away,” she adds.
However, the course isn’t easy, and the system in Cyprus is a little different. “Back home, I’d have more chances to retake an exam. Here, if I don’t pass it in a given year, I have to pass it the following year, which is a bit stressful,” she explains.
Snow outside the window and hot chocolate
Although Brno is a new environment for Andrea, she’s made friends quickly – there are several Cypriots in her class. “I have no problem approaching people. But it did help that we had a group straight away,” she says. Together, they’re now exploring Brno’s cafés and brunch spots. She has a clear favourite: Podnebí. “They’ve got the best hot chocolate there,” the student reveals.
As well as the difficulty of the Czech language, she was also surprised by the cold weather in Brno. “The most memorable moment since I arrived? When I saw snow outside the window. I was freezing, but it was beautiful and completely unique,” she recalls.
Plans? Back home
However, she hasn’t forgotten her home and plans to return there once she’s completed the programme. “My family is in Cyprus and I want to be close to them. That’s always been my plan,” says Andrea. She hasn’t decided on her specialism yet. “At the moment, I’m drawn to community pharmacy, but I’m still at the beginning and my decision might change.”