Field of studies Central European and Balkan Studies (studies in English) - Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan (Uniwersytet im. Adama Mickiewicza w Poznaniu), UAM (Poznań) - European Studies - Study Bachelor's and Master's in English in Poland

1. You hear a folk song in a language you don’t know from somewhere in the Balkans. What do you do?

I look up its origins and lyrics, and try to understand what the song says about the culture it comes from. I enjoy the melody, but I don’t look any further. I switch it off – it’s not my kind of music.

2. The programme includes learning one or two languages of the region from scratch. How does that sound?

Great – I love learning new languages, even ones with a different alphabet or unfamiliar grammar. It sounds hard, but I could give it a try. I’d rather not learn any more languages.

3. All lectures are in English and your classmates come from many countries. How do you feel about that?

I love the idea – studying the region with people from different backgrounds means hearing lots of perspectives. It’s fine, although I worry about writing essays in English. I’d rather study in my own language with people I know.

4. Which topic in history lessons interests you most?

The changing borders, empires and nations of the region and how they still influence people’s lives today. Some topics, as long as they’re not too detailed. None – history bores me.

5. You’re planning a summer trip. Which option tempts you most?

Travelling through several countries of the region, visiting small towns, markets and historical sites and talking to locals. A beach holiday in the region, with maybe one sightseeing day. Somewhere far away from this part of Europe.

6. Someone says that people from the region are all the same. How do you respond?

I point out the differences in languages, religions, traditions and history – the region is far more diverse than it seems. I disagree, but I couldn’t really explain why. I don’t care – it makes no difference to me.

7. Your course asks you to read a novel by a writer from the region. How do you approach it?

With curiosity – I want to see how the author portrays society, history and identity. I read it if I have to, but I prefer a summary. I don’t read novels.

8. How do you feel about discussing tense topics such as nationalism, minorities or past conflicts?

I find them important and I can talk about them calmly, respecting different points of view. I’m interested, but I’d rather listen than speak. I avoid those subjects entirely.

9. Where can you imagine working after your degree?

In tourism, translation, culture, the media, an NGO or a company working with partners in the region. I’m not sure yet, but something international would be nice. I can’t see myself in any of those jobs.

10. What motivates you most to study Central European and Balkan Studies?

Fascination with the languages, history and cultures of the region and the chance to turn it into a career. Curiosity about a region I know only a little about. I’m not sure it’s for me

Central European and Balkan Studies

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