Maharshi studies part-time at our university while living in Łódź

He shares some funny stories that he encountered during his time in Poland

He’s an International Business student who loves hiking, gaming and cooking – and even tried making pierogi.

Welcome centre: Hello, nice to see you! Please tell us something about yourself.

Maharshi: Hi!I’m Maharshi from India and I study International Business.

Welcome centre: What are your favourite ways to relax outside of university life?

Maharshi: When I'm not buried in books or attending lectures, you can find me trying out new recipes, hiking – I love sports, or getting lost in a snooker game. I’m a hardcore gamer too ;) And also I live to eat so consider me the best chef.Many would say I’m an adventurous soul, I’m always ready to try something new.

Welcome centre: So,have you tried cooking any Polish dishes yet? How did it go?

Maharshi: Cooking is my passion but whenever I try to make pierogi, I always end up with a doughy disaster. Still, they taste amazing - just try to ignore how they look.

Welcome centre: Some more time in Poland and they will look better. You mentioned that you have an adventurous spirit. With that mindset, did you always know you wanted to study abroad?

Maharshi: Studying abroad was always a dream of mine, fuelled by a desire to experience new cultures, gain a global perspective, and, let's be honest, to find out if the grass is really greener on the other side. Poland, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and affordability, seemed like the perfect destination.

Welcome centre: And why KUE and why Kraków specifically?

Maharshi: Krakow University of Economics stood out because of its excellent reputation, diverse student body, and the fact that in Kraków, you can literally walk through history on your way to class. Plus, who can resist the charm of pierogi and the warmth Polish hospitality?

Welcome centre: Some more time in Poland and your pierogi will start looking as good as they taste.You mentioned that you have an adventurous spirit. With that mindset, did you always know you wanted to study abroad?

Maharshi: Studying abroad was always a dream of mine, fuelled by a desire to experience new cultures, gain a global perspective, and, let's be honest, to find out if the grass is really greener on the other side. Poland, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and affordability, seemed like the perfect destination.

Welcome centre: And why KUE and why Kraków specifically?

Maharshi: Krakow University of Economics stood out because of its excellent reputation, diverse student body, and the fact that in Kraków, you can literally walk through history on your way to class. Plus, who can resist the charm of pierogi and the warmth Polish hospitality?

Welcome centre: It seems like you’re really enjoying time here.We heard you recently moved to Łódź. How do you like the city so far?

Maharshi: Łódź is a charming city where the architecture looks like it’s auditioning for a role in a historical drama. I’m studying part-time, which gives me opportunity to perfect my procrastination skills while hopping between local cafes - because caffeine is the best study buddy, right? I still live in Łódź but I spend my weekends in Kraków.

Welcome centre: We guess that gives you a great chance to get to know Poland better.But we imagine moving to a new country must come with some challenges. Can you share your experience?

Maharshi: Absolutely!The biggest challenge for me was the language barrier. One of my funniest experiences happened during my first week in Poland. I decided to be brave and order dinner at a restaurant without using Google Translate. I confidently pointed at something on the menu, expecting a delicious Polish dish.

Welcome centre: Oh no! Did it turn out to be something unexpected?

Maharshi: Yeah!When my order arrived, I was greeted by a plate of pickled herring staring back at me! Turns out, I had mistaken it for a dessert! Fun fact is that I am actually vegan.It was a hilarious and memorable introduction to Polish cuisine.

Welcome centre: That must have been quite a surprise.Were there any other cultural differences that caught you off guard?

Maharshi: Definitely! For example I was surprised by how punctual public transport is here. Also once I tried tipping a cashier at a grocery store, and the confused look on their face was priceless. Turns out, tipping isn't a thing here!

Welcome centre: Were there any moments that really highlighted the cultural differences between Poland and India?

Maharshi: Yes! When I visited the zoo, everyone was so excited to see elephants. It was amusing because, in India, elephants are a part of daily life - you might even see them in traffic!

Welcome centre: We can imagine! In Poland, people would probably freak out if they saw an elephant on the road. But in India, it's just another day, right?Moving on to your studies, what do you like the most at the University?

Maharshi: What I love most about the University is the supportive community and the emphasis on practical learning. The professors are approachable, and there's a real sense of camaraderie among students.

Welcome centre: And is there anything you would change?

Maharshi: If I could change one thing, it would be the cafeteria hours. Sometimes, a late-night study session calls for a midnight snack, and vending machine chips just don't cut it.

Welcome centre: Fair point.Do you think your experience in Poland will benefit you in future?

Maharshi: Without a doubt! Living here has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of cross-cultural communication. I’ve built a network of friends and professional contacts from all over the world. Plus, I can now navigate a Polish menu without fear – so that’s a skill for life!

Welcome centre: Mastering Polish menus is no small feat. What advice would you give to other international students or applicants who are still hesitant or feeling uncertain about studying abroad?

Maharshi: Embrace the uncertainty and the adventure. You will learn more about yourself and the world than you ever could from a textbook. Stepping out of your comfort zone is when the magic happens. So pack your bags, keep an open mind, and don't forget to try the pierogi!

Welcome centre: Thank you for sharing your experience with us. See you around the campus!

Maharshi: Thank you too! See you!