The International Office at the University of Economics in Bratislava held six Snack&Chat events during the academic year 2023/2024. Three sessions were held in the winter semester, while the other three were scheduled for the summer semester for incoming exchange students, together from 25 countries.
The Snack&Chat events provided an excellent opportunity for students to meet with staff from the International Office and connect with fellow students from various backgrounds. Veljko from the University of Kragujevac, Serbia evaluated the event: "The Snack&Chat session was great, we were talking not only about good things but we had a chance to talk about what we didn't like. Topics were interesting and fun, nice to hear different opinions about the same things.".
Each event included engaging discussions and feedback sessions, making them an important platform for direct communication with the university's management. Maria from Greece, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens mentioned that “it was very good, I felt that I was heard and my opinion matters!”.
This event is more than just a social event; it has become an important way for meaningful conversations, helping to create a more unified and attentive educational setting. Sandro from Georgia, Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University said he “...enjoyed the snack and chat. It was helpful to hear other students' opinions on the studying process, share own views on subjects, and get clear answers to all the questions.”.
The feedback collected during these events was invaluable in enhancing the university's understanding of international students' needs, and it helps inform ongoing improvements in academic and social provisions. The Head of the International Office, Miroslava Darnadiová, expressed her anticipation for the forthcoming semesters, recognizing that the knowledge gained from these discussions will undoubtedly enhance the experience for all incoming international students.
