Finding My Path in Slovenia: A Student’s Experience in Koper By Bouchra Achour Aoul
My name is Bouchra Achour Aoul, and I am from Algeria. I first heard about Slovenia in 2010, when we had a football match with the Slovenian national team. At that time, I was 17 years old, and although I could not imagine it then, this moment would later become the beginning of my connection with the country where I would eventually live and study.
I have been a gym instructor for almost six years, and sports have always played an important role in my life. Academically, I have a diverse background: I am an English major, I hold a Master’s degree in Translation and Interpretation Abu Bakr Belkaid University of Tlemcen, and I also earned a diploma from CREPS (Regional Center for Physical and Sports Training) from Oran Institute . This combination of language studies and sports naturally led me to choose kinesiology as the next step in my academic journey. I am currently studying at EMUNI university in Koper, a charming coastal city that quickly made me feel at home because it is so calm city like mine (Tlemcen).
I chose Slovenia EMUNI university was recommended to me by my classmates. While preparing my documents, I expected the country to be calm, with warm and talkative people. When I arrived, my first impression was unforgettable: snow-covered mountains, a peaceful atmosphere, and a strong feeling of safety. From the very beginning, Slovenia felt welcoming and gentle. Academically, this experience ai EMUNI is very different from my previous studies. Moving from foreign languages to a scientific field such as kinesiology has been challenging but rewarding. What I enjoy most about kinesiology is that the program is not only theoretical—we also have practical courses, which allow us to apply what we learn in real situations. One of the proudest moments for me was receiving a good mark in a kinesiology subject on my first attempt, which gave me confidence and confirmed that I had made the right choice.
All of the staff of EMUNI university especially my professors have been inspiring, supportive, and understanding, especially knowing that I arrived recently and not having a scientific background. What I appreciate most about the academic environment is how helpful and patient the teachers are, particularly with international students. My daily life as a student mainly consists of studying, adapting to a new system, and looking for job opportunities. Making friends was easy for me, as I am an extroverted person. From the very first university meeting, I connected with many students, which helped me feel comfortable and included.
Living in Slovenia has been a wonderful experience. It is a safe, peaceful, and beautiful country, offering many activities, especially for people who love sports. One new activity I tried here was skating, which was both exciting and challenging for me. These small experiences made my life here even richer. Before coming to Slovenia, one of my fears was how I would move from the capital Ljubljana to Koper and whether transportation would be difficult. However, thanks to the excellent public transport system, I never felt lost. Everything was well organized, and this made my transition much easier and less stressful. Overall, this experience has been very gentle with me. It taught me to be more patient, more confident, and more independent. I learned that I can succeed anywhere.
Nothing in life is truly difficult if you want something and work for it, you can achieve it. When I eventually leave Slovenia, I will deeply miss the kind people, my classmates, and the university staff who supported me and helped me move closer to my goals.
To future students considering Slovenia, my advice is simple: bring warm clothes for the winter, and sunprotection for summer with bathing suits and do not be afraid. People may seem reserved at first, but they are truly helpful, joyful, and welcoming once you start a conversation. If possible, try to arrange your accommodation before arriving, or ask the university for help it will make settling in much easier. Slovenia did not only give me an education, but also confidence in myself and my future.
