Hello, I am Amanda Broka from the Rezekne Academy of Technologies in Rezekne, Latvia. Currently, I am studying for the second time at Istanbul Gedik University as part of the Erasmus+ mobility program, in the Faculty of Architecture and Design, Department of Interior Architecture and Environmental Design. In January, I will also undertake an internship mobility.

Studying abroad and fully integrating into a new university and environment is a unique experience. I came to the Erasmus program on my own, which helped me step out of my comfort zone and improve my language skills. The semester flies by quickly, and time passes unnoticed. Every day is unforgettable, especially because I am in Istanbul – a city I call the “city of love.” The professors and students are welcoming, and despite language challenges, communication is always possible. Turkish people are very open and hospitable. Living in Istanbul is an interesting and unforgettable experience, where you encounter religion, culture, architecture, and, of course, Turkish cuisine.

I would like to express my gratitude to the ERASMUS+ coordinators, Mrs. Ilayda and Mr. Yücel Kamar, for the opportunity to study at Istanbul Gedik University. I highly recommend studying at Istanbul Gedik University to every student. This is already my second time here, and I can say it’s also a fantastic opportunity to explore Istanbul and Turkey!