Autumn whispered its first word in early September this year, with vibrant shades of amber, crimson, and gold. Yet, if one looks closely, summer has left some of its green behind on the leaves, a note promising to return next year, and with a heavy heart, we bid farewell to summer and turn the page to a new chapter, titled ‘Winter Semester.’
One unique aspect of student life is the way the idea of a “new year” shifts. Unlike the calendar year, which begins in January, a student’s year often feels like it restarts with the beginning of a new semester. Each term brings a fresh set of courses, challenges, and opportunities, almost like a reset button for routines, goals, and ambitions.
BIP (Blended Intensive Programme) interdisciplinary approach Olomouc
For me, this year started or if I am to paraphrase it, this semester started with volunteering as a student buddy in BIP (Blended Intensive Programme) interdisciplinary approach Olomouc, which lasted from 8th to 11th of September. This summer school course was designed to bring students and teachers together from different fields like PT, OT and Midwife to work on a real world situations where concepts such as Multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches were introduced to solve the situation in the best way possible. More than 8-9 countries' representatives were present, including Croatia, Poland, Slovakia, Iceland, Germany, Bosnia, Spain, etc.
The course included Workshops like Relaxation techniques, speech and voice therapy, occupational therapy group exercises, practical sessions like soft tissue mobilisation techniques of Temporomandibular joints, interdisciplinary team projects, Guest lectures, and cultural programs like sightseeing provided by a representative from Welcome Office.
We were divided into four groups, each bringing together people from different fields of study and countries. At the start of the course, we were given an imaginary patient and their case, and as a group we had to design the best rehabilitation plan by applying our expertise and everything we had learned throughout the course. The program concluded with us presenting our report, receiving our certificates, and, of course, capturing many wonderful memories, It was truly a blissful moment for me, meeting new people, engaging in critical thinking, going transdisciplinary and transcultural, and bringing everything together to solve problems differently, with a more holistic approach. It was a new experience and an enlightening one.
Starting the winter semester of the 3rd year
Our semester officially started on the 15th of September. Often called the hardest year, this one began with operating room visits. Within just a week at the university hospital, we witnessed around 10–12 surgeries, from different types of fractures to bypass procedures and more. The surgeries were overwhelming at first, to be honest, stepping into an environment where life and precision are so closely intertwined. Watching each surgery unfold filled me with awe at the skill of the surgeons and the resilience of the patients. At the same time, it challenged me to reflect on my own path, reminding me that health science is not only about science but also about patience, empathy, and responsibility. What could have been intimidating became a moment of inspiration, strengthening my commitment to learn with a more open and holistic perspective.
Had the opportunity to present as an ambassador during Orientation Day
This year, I was granted the opportunity to become part of the Ambassador Program. As part of the program’s schedule, we also took part in Orientation Day for new international students. Orientation Day was held on different dates in September, specifically on the 9th, 15th, and 18th. Each day featured a variety of sessions designed to support students’ adjustment and growth. Among these was a presentation aimed at showing Olomouc from a student’s perspective. My fellow ambassadors, Julia and Derek, gave their presentations on the 9th and 15th, while I had the honour of presenting on the 18th.
It was a truly rewarding experience, not only to meet new people, but also to speak about a city that has become like a second home to me, a place where I have spent half of my life. In my presentation, I talked about topics such as how to blend into a new country, what to do in one’s leisure time, and some of the challenges students might face in a new environment.
One of the challenges foreign students like us often face is adapting to the changing weather. With autumn stepping in and the temperature dropping by the minute, I strongly recommend that my friends keep themselves warm. Wrap up in blankets, enjoy hot teas, and at the same time, don’t miss the beauty of Olomouc. In autumn, the city takes on an entirely new shade, glowing with vibrant colours. May we all grow together through this winter semester, just as Olomouc does with each passing season.
The Ambassador Program of the Welcome Office is an initiative that enables international students at Palacký University Olomouc to engage across all faculties, offering peer support in academic matters, university integration, and cultural exchange. Ambassadors assist fellow students in navigating their studies, adapting to university and city life, and fostering a vibrant multicultural environment. They actively participate in cultural days and events, share best practices, collaborate on projects, and share their academic and personal experiences. Ambassadors also organize social events and facilitate effective communication between students, faculties, and the rectorate of Palacký University. If you are interested in seizing the opportunity to become our next ambassador, you can register here.