Magalena Lucka -
podcast #15 of the series "Foundations"
The episode and the entire series are also available on Soundcloud and Spotify:
In the latest episode of the "Foundations" podcast, we recall a conversation with Magdalena Lucka from Poznan University of Technology, who shares her experiences as an exchange student at Valencia University of Technology. Her story is a heartwarming, detailed and inspiring account of academic life in Spain - from campus and classes to life outside the university.
why Valencia in particular?
Although initially the decision to go was motivated by the weather and lack of vitamin D, Valencia quickly proved to be much more than just a sunny city. An earlier stay - during the Taizé European Youth Meeting - had already left Magdalena with strong emotions and a desire to return. The charming city, its architecture and urban planning, but also the campus of Valencia Polytechnic University proved to be a fascinating space for learning and living.
studies different from all
Magdalena talks about the differences between the Polish and Spanish education systems. The biggest surprise? One lecturer conducts both lectures and exercises - which gives more consistency and a practical approach to learning.
The classes are dynamic, thoughtful and conducted with a lot of commitment. As a result, students better understand the expectations of the lecturers and develop practical competencies faster.
Lecturers' openness and cross-cultural experience
Magdalena emphasizes that the contact with the lecturers was very good - helpful, open, willing to provide individual consultations. Although language may have been a barrier, not knowing Spanish did not prevent full participation. She also recalls that, as a foreign student, she felt that the staff made even more of an effort to show the university at its best.
Valencia Polytechnic, while technical, also offers aesthetic and humanities subjects - such as sculpture and urbanism in the Bellas Artes department. Magdalena recalls classes that forced her to go beyond realistic design and inspired deeper reflections on the social aspects of architecture.
Life outside the university - culture, sports and everyday life
Valencia is not only about learning - it is also a place rich in cultural and social life. Magdalena talks about opportunities to enjoy the campus' rich sports offerings, walking and biking around the city, as well as clubs and nightlife - including the Umbracle club located under Calatrava's work.
There is also no shortage of student organizations and trips - to other regions of Spain and even Morocco.
In retrospect, Magdalena recommends the exchange to any architecture student - not just as an educational trip, but as a way of personal growth, openness to diversity and broadening horizons. Her story is an example of how studying abroad can complement and enrich the classical academic path in Poland.
Aleksandra Skorupa
Maria Cipinska
Listen also to other podcasts
from the "Foundations" series:
10: Body, Material, Emotion. How does Mikołaj Hewelt design spaces that touch?
12. studying architecture in China - Aleksandra Debicka on living and studying in Guangzhou.
14. behind the scenes of design. Christina Vanhoof and Natalia Stefanska on interior design.
