Experience in University of Zadar, Croatia by Eva

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Generally, what is University of Zadar like?

Geographically, it is situated on a highly attractive location by the turquoise sea and I guess this is the what attracts people the most. Concerning the University itself, my experience has been both good and bad. In the beginning it all seems really new and interesting of course, but with time you start to see many faults, but then again they appear everywhere. It is actually hard for me to recommend it because I myself can't wait to leave, but objectively I think that if you are surrounded by the right people, you can have a great time. And I have heard mostly positive comments from the people of other countries so I guess it is enjoyable (although the city is practically dead in winter). But if you're on Erasmus you'll have a great time anywhere.

What are the facilities like?

The building, which is really charming, is situated on a really great location with a fantastic view (google the images! ). The building itself is alright, it contains enough classrooms, but the reading room is small and doesn't offer many sources you might need, (but you will primarily study from your notes anyway). Here I would definitely recommend the city library!

There is also one cafeteria, which I think is also too small and not very good; there is the restaurant where the food is really great in my opinion and the staff are always smiling or singing.

What are the tutors like?

I think they are pretty much like anywhere else; you can find tutors who are really able to help you and then you can find those who are not so great. But generally I rarely had really bad experience.

Are the lessons easy in University of Zadar?

It depends on what you study of course. I can speak for the lessons of English and French. English has always been pretty easily passable, the linguistic subjects you had to study a bit, which is a good sign, while literature was not so hard but it depends on what the teacher expects from you. French was a bit difficult since there were many beginners, so I'd say some things were challenging but also easily passable if you studied (not too much, but again it depends on your ability to absorb the language).

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Does the University organise activities? If so, what are they like?

I haven't been really engaged in the university's activities but there is often something to do, from watching movies collectively (I always liked that) to organising some other ways of broadening one's horizons...

Do you think there is a good quality of teaching?

Generally, I have to say no. There are of course the professors who have something to offer (I have a really good opinion on the English linguists), but generally I don't have the opinion that it is a very good college. Many teachers are hired on the basis of personal relations and for some of them I still don't know why they even work as teachers. So I would not recommend it for someone who cares for their education and considers spending a lot of time there. But I guess one year or one semester is not so bad, and anyway Erasmus is not about attending courses but learning the lessons of life.

Are there any stories you can share?

If you go to Zadar, one of the unwritten laws is that you must eat something that we call "burek" frequently at 5 a. m. on your way back from partying. You can always buy it at the bakery right at the beginning of the bridge.

What else can I say, surround yourself with different people and have fun!

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