During the autumn semester, four students from the Department of Computer Engineering and Information Systems at Khmelnytskyi National University participated in an academic mobility program and studied at Mendel University in Brno (Czech Republic). Among the participants were Maria Mamontova, a bachelor’s student in Computer Engineering; Viktoriia Zhylkova, a student in Information Systems and Technologies; as well as two master’s students in Computer Engineering—Yuliia Ilchyshyna and Valeriia Shvaiko.
Studying at one of the leading universities in the Czech Republic provided students with the opportunity to explore the specifics of the European education system, learn in an international environment alongside peers from various countries, and broaden their professional and cultural horizons. Classes were conducted in English, which helped develop language skills and confidence in intercultural communication. In addition to academic courses, the students had the opportunity to participate in various cultural and social events for exchange participants organised by the Erasmus Student Network, which facilitated знакомства with traditions of different countries and the establishment of new international connections.
As part of the semester mobility, the students studied specialised disciplines, worked on projects, and mastered new tools and learning approaches. A distinctive feature of the educational process was the combination of theoretical instruction with practical case studies, teamwork, and interactive teaching methods.
The participants shared their impressions of the academic mobility experience:
“The semester at Mendel University in Brno became a real step beyond the привычного. What impressed me most was the European education system and the amazing student atmosphere, where the language barrier disappears within the first week. This mobility taught me not only new knowledge but, above all, independence and adaptability. Solving all issues on your own in another country gives you incredible self-confidence. It is an experience that truly broadens your horizons.” — Viktoriia, 3rd year, Information Systems and Technologies
“This semester of studying abroad became a truly special and unforgettable stage in my life. Brno turned out to be an ideal city for a student: cosy, modern, and very welcoming. A new format of interaction at the university and daily challenges taught me to adapt quickly, appreciate intercultural exchange, and develop professional flexibility in an international environment. The months flew by in an instant, leaving me with knowledge and memories that will stay with me forever! — Maria, 3rd year, Computer Engineering
“Recently, I took part in an international exchange under the Erasmus+ program in the Czech Republic. Throughout the autumn semester, I studied at Mendel University in Brno. It was an incredible experience: we studied alongside students from all over the world, and classes were conducted in English, with the option to attend Czech language courses for foreigners. The studies were very engaging—each subject had its own structure and specifics. It was new to me that classes can last longer than in Ukraine, and the schedule is flexible: classes may take place between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., and during the first weeks, students can adjust their schedules and choose other courses. I especially remember the Cybercrime course, where we studied various types of cybercrimes, as well as legislation and penalties in EU countries. It was very interesting to compare legal approaches across different states. We also had a Strategic Management course, where we played a complex strategy game in teams to compete for market dominance. The rulebook exceeded 25 pages, and the game itself was part of the final course project. In addition to studying, we actively participated in exchange-student events, met new people, shared cultural traditions, and practised English. It was truly a valuable experience, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to try a new educational environment and develop my professional and communication skills.” — Valeriia, 2nd year Master’s student, Computer Engineering
Participation in the academic mobility program contributes to improving the quality of training for future IT specialists, fostering international cooperation, and integrating students of Khmelnytskyi National University into the European educational space. The experience gained will become an important stage in their professional development and will inspire other students to take part in international academic mobility programs.
