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+).

Hamza El Khaier

Student Ambassador

Country of originMorocco
Higher education institution"Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi
Field of studyMedicine
Level of studyBachelor programme (BA/ BSc)
Scholarship holderNo
Portrait of Student Ambassador

Q&A with the Ambassador _

Why Romania?

What made you choose Romania as your study destination?

I chose Romania because of the academic excellence of its medical universities and the international recognition of their diplomas across Europe and beyond. The country’s strong tradition in medical education and the opportunity to study in a multilingual, multicultural environment made it the ideal place to pursue my medical career.

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?)

My experience in Romania has been truly enriching, both academically and personally. The university offers a high-quality education within a cosmopolitan environment where I’ve had the chance to meet people from all around the world. This diversity has allowed me to learn from different perspectives, discover new cultures, and grow as both a student and a person.

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?

The academic and teaching staff at my university are extremely professional, dedicated, and supportive. Their expertise and commitment create an excellent learning atmosphere. As a medical student, I particularly appreciate the access to advanced facilities such as anatomy laboratories, clinical simulation centers, and modern research spaces that allow us to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life scenarios. These well-equipped infrastructures not only exceed my expectations but also play a crucial role in developing our practical and clinical skills.

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

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

In Romania, I have learned the importance of adaptability and teamwork. Studying and living in a multicultural environment has taught me how to communicate effectively, understand different perspectives, and work collaboratively toward common goals. My experience as a student representative in the UMF Iași Senate has also strengthened these skills — it has given me the opportunity to work closely with professors and colleagues from diverse backgrounds, to contribute to decision-making processes, and to represent the voice of international students. These experiences have not only enriched my personal growth but also prepared me to become a more empathetic, open-minded, and collaborative future physician.

What do you enjoy most about living in Romania?

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

What I enjoy most about living in Romania is the strong sense of community and involvement within the university. UMF Iași brings together students from more than 80 countries, creating a truly international environment where collaboration and cultural exchange thrive. As President of the Medical Association of Francophone Students of Iași, I’ve had the chance to help French-speaking and international students integrate more easily — by organizing academic workshops, cultural events, and humanitarian initiatives. This involvement has allowed me to make a tangible impact on student life while feeling part of a diverse and supportive community that shares the same passion for medicine.

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 encourage future students to come to Romania with confidence. The medical education here is excellent, offered in multiple languages such as English, French, and Romanian, which makes it accessible to students from all over the world. The environment is friendly and inclusive, and student life is vibrant and diverse. It’s a place where you can not only build a solid professional foundation but also live an unforgettable international experience, surrounded by people who share the same passion for medicine.

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