Student Life Unplugged
Welcome to our “Student Life Unplugged” podcast, where young people from diverse backgrounds share their experiences in navigating student life across the globe. Tune in as we explore the real conversations and candid stories of students — from their academic challenges to personal triumphs and everything in between.
This podcast offers a unique platform for students to voice their thoughts on a variety of topics such as adapting to new cultures, handling academic pressures, and planning future careers. Whether it’s students in the Europe discussing the nuances of studying abroad, or cousins in South-East Asia revealing the dynamics of male students’ experiences, each episode dives deep into aspects of student life that are seldom discussed openly.
Hosted by an experienced educator who has seen both sides of the academic spectrum, our podcast provides not just stories but also guidance and insights from someone who truly understands the student journey.
Student Life Unplugged
S1 E4 Georgia - Diana and Kristine - Fact-based education and studying overseas in Bulgaria and Italy
Should I consider studying abroad? What are the benefits of studying abroad? Is studying abroad worth it?
Diana and Kristine are from Georgia (the country) but decided to go abroad to study and are living in Hungary and Italy. Diana is studying media and communications in Budapest but wants to use her knowledge and experience of other countries to change the education system back home. Kristine is a journalist and is doing a master’s in international relations in Bologna. Her dream is to develop her skills and work with the BBC or other big media organisations.
In this episode we hear about home and study life in Georgia and how it compares to where they are now living. They talk about the pros and cons of Georgia’s ‘fact based’ education system, the food, community and culture, how beautiful the country is and why Georgians will never send you away from their home hungry.
They explain how they ended up choosing these two countries, both decisions were very spontaneous but neither of them regrets it. Diana talks about the opportunities she got in Budapest that may not have emerged elsewhere and Kristine talks about the joy in finding out what makes the Italians tick.
The main difference they have found studying abroad, is the slower pace of life and the value of finding a study/life balance. They also agree meeting friends has been easier when they are not confided to certain circles at home.
Loneliness while living abroad is also discussed, both craving their family and country but also realising how much they have already achieved just by moving somewhere different.
Their advice to anyone thinking of studying abroad is to prepare yourself with studying the language but also not to let that stop you from going there. They also highlight the importance of focusing on the present moment and not to feel guilty about having fun. Sounds like great advice!
Student Life Unplugged is hosted by Leong Hiew, a former University Lecturer with a passion for education. Student Life Unplugged is part of Leong's mission to promote the joy of learning among young people through his organisation 'Lifespan Education'. He is working towards building a positive world, to nurture communities of engaged learners for the sake of his own children and for young people everywhere.
For more information about Leong and his project go to https://https://lifespan.education/contact/
If you would like to take part in the podcast, go to https://lifespan.education/podcast/
This podcast is produced by Elisa Kennedy