Leyla on why she chose VUAS
June 5, 2020
One of Leyla's hobbies is Soccer and she is glad that near VUAS is a soccer field.
For university there is nothing more valuable than our students. That’s why we never have enough of their stories. Let’s meet a student Leyla from Azerbaijan who is definitely One of Us. Leyla joined Ventspils University of Applied Sciences family last Autumn and started bachelor studies in the Faculty of Translation Studies. She has made an impression of a quiet but noticeable person and a well-rounded personality.
What encouraged you to study abroad?
I love traveling and discovering new cultures, so I was looking for an opportunity to expand my horizons and to study at the same time. However, like many students, I assumed I’d fall behind in credits, would have difficulty with the language, and was nervous of the whole idea. Despite this, everything turned out to be much simpler. And also, I was looking forward to the challenge of living and studying independently abroad.
What are the biggest benefits of this experience?
Studying abroad was important for me because I knew that this experience will change me forever, not only as a student but also as an individual. To me, the advantages of studying abroad are that I experienced a different style of teaching, improved my language skills, and learned about new cultures and perspectives.
Why did You choose the degree that you are studying?
I picked “Translation” since it was something I enjoyed. I want to spend the next years of my life doing what I really like and making money from it. Translation & Interpreting are very competitive, so getting employed in these fields is very hard, but I'm going to try.
What were you like in high school?
I was the kind of introverted kid who used to not talk much. I was always reserved and had very few friends. I can't say I was a nerd, but I was trying to do my best. Fun fact: I was enjoying beating my classmates in arm wrestling.
What are your skills/hobbies?
One of my extracurricular activities is soccer. I was a right midfielder in professional soccer for 3 years. Unfortunately, after the admission to Ventspils University of Applied Sciences I had to quit soccer. However, I didn't give up on my dreams. And fortunately, I found a stadium near the university and I train there 3 times a week.
My second hobby is sketching. I’m not a professional in this field, but this calms my nerves. And I hate drawing portraits, actually, I can’t. My sketches are mostly cartoonish, not realistic.
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you recently?
Taking a midterm exam via Kahoot. Actually, I liked the idea. I realized that I don't need to stress and take these midterm exams too seriously.
What kind of activities would make you excited to get out of bed on Monday morning?
If it’s my soccer day, I can’t wait for the sunrise. I wake up at 5 am on training days. I’m a morning person indeed. Being an early-riser has taught me a lot about myself. I’ve noticed that I am more productive in my studies in the mornings rather than in the afternoon.
One of Leyla's sketches
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