Tamara Laković, BA student of Cultural History
My Experience: Studying at UNG
If someone had told me a few years ago that I would become a student in Slovenia, meet a completely new circle of people, live in another country, and study in a language that was unfamiliar to me at the time, I probably wouldn’t have believed them. However, today I can’t imagine not having made this decision sooner.
Slovenia is a country where everyday life feels like a fairy tale. People are warm, kind, and always ready to help, guide, and provide support. Before making this decision, I listened to the experiences of other students, which seemed too good to be true. However, reality has fully met my expectations.
My first contact with the University of Nova Gorica was through an online information day for the Cultural History program. I was the only participant in the Zoom meeting, which gave me the opportunity to speak directly with professors—not only about the study program itself but also about the life of international students in Slovenia. We started the conversation in English and finished in Serbian, which gave me additional confidence. The professors were incredibly kind, answered all my questions, and explained every next step in detail—from the application process to enrollment.
When I received the email confirming my admission, I realized that in just a few months, I would be moving to a country I had never been to before and studying in a language I had yet to master. Although I felt a certain level of fear, the excitement was even greater. I reassured myself with the thought that returning home was always an option, but today, I can confidently say that I have found my new home here.
The University of Nova Gorica is located in a unique setting, right on the border between Slovenia and Italy. My colleagues and I often take advantage of breaks between lectures to make a quick trip to Italy for ice cream. The professors are highly dedicated and approachable, and student life is enriched with numerous benefits. Every morning, fresh fruit awaits us on every floor of the university building, and every other week, a communal breakfast is organized for students and professors. We also have a social room—our "salon"—where we enjoy coffee or tea, study, meet up, and have lunch together.
Another special feature of the university is that it is pet-friendly, meaning our four-legged friends are regular members of the academic community.
It is difficult to highlight just one recommendation for future students considering enrollment, as there are so many advantages. There is a strong sense of community here—students support each other, study together, socialize, and grow both academically and personally. A negative atmosphere and exclusion of individuals have no place in this environment.
The faculty is of exceptional quality and deeply committed to students. In just my first semester of undergraduate studies, I acquired significant knowledge, but what I value most is the broader perspective that my studies provide. Discussions and lessons learned are not confined to a single subject—they are applicable in academic work, everyday life, and further education. I feel that I now see the world from an entirely new perspective.
In conclusion, I can confidently say that student life in Nova Gorica is incredibly rich and fulfilling. This small town brings together extraordinary people and offers outstanding academic opportunities. The University of Nova Gorica provides intellectual freedom, the support of professors and friends, and a high-quality, inspiring environment for living and working. Without hesitation, I would make the same decision again.
So — we welcome you with open arms! Join us at the University of Nova Gorica, where we learn, grow, and build the future together. Welcome!
Tamara Laković, Serbia, student of the bachelor's study programme Cultural History, School of Humanities, University of Nova Gorica
