The Student Ambassador Program is funded under the project “Romania towards 2030: Increasing international relevance through the internationalization of higher education”, (MySMIS 319112) through the Education and Employment Programme 2021–2027, co-financed by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+).

Angel Maria Concepción Acosta Silva

Student Ambassador

Country of originParaguay
Higher education institutionTechnical University of Civil Engineering Bucharest
Field of studyCivil Engineering
Level of studyBachelor programme (BA/ BSc)
Scholarship holderMinistry of Foreign Affairs scholarship - MFA scholarship
Portrait of Student Ambassador

Q&A with the Ambassador _

Why Romania?

What made you choose Romania as your study destination?

When I decided to study abroad, the most difficult part was choosing the country, as there are many that offer good programs. Countries like Spain and Portugal were tempting because of the languages I speak (Spanish and Portuguese). However, I was looking to step out of my comfort zone, to face a greater challenge, learn a new language, and explore a new culture. When I found the StudyInRomania program, I felt it was exactly what I was looking for: a new language, a program that teaches the language from scratch, the opportunity to be around native people while also being in an international and well-prepared environment, with students from all over the world. This offered me the chance to learn more about different cultures and languages. Additionally, the scholarship they are offering is one of the most complete I could find.

How has your experience in Romania been so far?

Tell us about your studies, daily life, and what stands out most to you. (In what ways has this experience supported your
academic or professional growth?)

Since I arrived, I have been amazed by the country. Everything is completely new, and many things are not common in my country. My first year of language studies was in Timișoara, at Politehnica University Timișoara (UPT), and I absolutely loved it. I adore the city and its people from Timișoara. The locals are very hospitable and friendly. I have Romanian friends who made me fall in love with the country. They opened their homes to me and introduced me to traditional Romanian food, which I now love. I truly appreciate the warmth Romanians show when they learn you’ve chosen their country. What stands out the most is how safe it feels, you can go out at any time, thanks to the strong police presence and respect for traffic rules. The architecture is also beautiful, and every day I discover something even more remarkable about this country.

What do you think about your study programme, instructors (teachers, staff), and university facilities?

How do they compare with what you expected before coming here?

My language year was a great experience. I did my preparatory year at the Politehnica University Timișoara (UPT), where international students were treated very well. We had the chance to visit beautiful Romanian cities such as Sibiu and Hunedoara, and we always learned something new about the country. The university offered excellent facilities, including an indoor pool available all year round, a sauna, a jacuzzi, and an outdoor pool for the summer. The Politehnica University Timișoara (UPT), also supports student initiatives. In my case, I led an integration project where I connected Romanian and international students by painting T-shirts that represented our cultures, an activity fully funded by the university. Now, I am at the Technical University of Civil Engineering of Bucharest (UTCB), still discovering how things work here, but the International Office is always ready to help. I truly appreciate how much they care about us.

What have you learned in Romania — academically, professionally, or personally?

What’s something valuable you can truly say “I learned that in Romania”?

I have learned that university is not only about academic growth but also about personal development and connection. I learned that in Romania, where living and studying taught me the value of adaptability, communication, and collaboration in a multicultural environment. Academically, I can now officially include Romanian as my fifth language, and I’ve chosen a specialization in something I’ve always been passionate about: bridges. Most importantly, I learned that in Romania, growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new perspectives.

What do you enjoy most about living in Romania?

(It could be about the culture, people, food, cities, or your university experience)

I really enjoy Romanian cuisine. My favorite dish is mici, which are grilled minced meat rolls, and I also love ciorbă de fasole în pâine, a traditional bean soup served inside a loaf of bread. I also appreciate how diverse and open Romania is to the international community. The people are incredibly kind and hospitable, and you’ll always find someone willing to help you, whether it’s with the language barrier or directions. Everyone is very polite and helpful.

Do you have any advice for future international students considering studying in Romania?

What would you say to someone thinking about studying in Romania?

I would tell them not to be afraid of the experience because it’s a unique one. Romania is a country with a rich culture, a beautiful language, and amazing people. The level of education here is top-notch. You can find programs in fields like art, engineering, or medicine, taught in languages such as French, German, or English. Romania is extremely diverse, and the experience is unforgettable. Every day, you learn something new, visit unique places in the country, and you’ll carry amazing people in your heart forever.

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