Interview with Irbin Manuel Veliz Isidro from Spain, studying Biology

What do you like about studying at the Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences?

Being Erasmus, the timetables are really nice, not so many classes and enough free time. Teachers are nice with you and they understand any problems at the beginning or during your academic period. The student dormitory that the university makes available for the students (Arka) may seem a little bit old but in the end is as cozy as your own house. I have the opportunity to do my final project in something I never imagined: bats.

Why did you choose the course you are studying now?

I was between choosing biology or veterinary as a bachelor's degree but I decided for the former one since apart from animals I like many other things. Ever since I was little, I have loved animals and their environment, being outdoors appreciating the nature and its wonders. As you grow up, you realize that there's something you can do to protect what you like and by pursuing this career I hope to achieve this. I read once that the pleasure of a biologist comes from understanding what he/she likes, and by studying so, the more you learn, the more you appreciate this world.

What do you like about living in Wrocław?

Wrocław is a lovely city. Before coming here, I didn't know about its existence but now I'm glad that I do. To begin with, it's a small city compared to Madrid (Spain) but this is amazing cause you can reach the most important places in little time. Thankfully, public transport is well managed so there's no need for cars. What I also like is that you can rent bikes in many spots around the city. Being a vegetarian, I was afraid that Wrocław wouldn't have that many options but it surprised me the amount of good restaurants that it has. My favorite dish is of course 'pierogi ruskie' but I have discovered amazing soups such as the beetroot soup or tomato soup. Wrocław has many places to hang out with your friends, including clubs, so you can easily choose the one that fits your needs. To resume, Wrocław is almost a perfect city.

What are your dreams and plans for the future?

Difficult question I must admit. Once I finish my bachelor's degree, I definitely want to study a master in zoology but I don't know if I should start this year. I would like to do first a long term volunteering project somewhere around Europe, related to the environment if possible. After that "gap" year, I would apply for scholarships to study in a different country, being Australia my dream since I was a kid. And after that, I guess is difficult to determine what will happen but my dream would be to be able to work in the open field with animals as a conservationist and also spread the word about the importance of protecting the nature.

What are you passionate about?

I really love watching TV shows and movies, all in its original language if possible, so I can improve my English and learn some words form other languages. I also enjoy reading cause it can transport you to another time, place or world. I would say that one of the things that I like the most is music, whether I'm listening to it or dancing to its rhythm. Discovering new recipes and cooking is another thing that I like, overall if it doesn't include animals in it.

Are you engaged in any extra-curricular classes, students' activity groups?

Actually no. I believe there was a zoology association but the information was written in polish so I didn't know if could get in. Apart from that, I enjoy the activities organized by the ESN from our university and I try to attend most of the events that they organize. There are some members of the ESN that live in Arka so we have become friends.

What is the best thing about your country or nationality?

Spain has really good food, being Spanish omelet my favorite one. The weather is very nice during most of the year and the northern part is really good for the summer. There are amazing landscapes that you can visit. Usually, people is friendly and they will help you if you need it.