Meet Radovici Christopher, a researcher from Romania who has twice chosen Slovakia for his academic pursuits—first as a PhD student through the National Scholarship Programme, and later as a researcher via the CEEPUS programme.

Could you tell us where you’re from, what your field of research is and how long you have been (or were) in Slovakia?
I am originally from Craiova, a medium-sized city in southern Romania. My academic journey brought me to Slovakia, specifically to the wonderful city of Bratislava, where I spent over a year and a half on various research mobilities and grants. At the time of my first visit, I was a Ph.D. student at theBucharest University of Economic Studies, specializing in International Relations—a field that has been at the core of my academic and research pursuits since my bachelor's studies.

You have already participated in the CEEPUS programme in Slovakia. This is not your first time. Why did you decide to apply for this programme again?
The first time I came to Slovakia was during the second semester of my first year as a Ph.D. student. My decision took many by surprise—not just because of how soon I left, which later became a running joke among my colleagues who would often ask, “Where in the world are you now?”—but also because I chose Bratislava, a somewhat niche destination in our region, over the so-called shining capitals of Europe.

That initial experience, made possible through the NSP and later the CEEPUS programme, was my first research mobility. At the time, I was still figuring out what it truly meant to engage in academic research abroad and how to make the most of such an opportunity. Despite this learning curve, I quickly fell in love with the city, its atmosphere, the academic community, and the cultural scene. This positive experience inspired me to return—this time with a clearer perspective—so I could build upon my network, deepen my integration, and achieve even better research outcomes.

How has your time in Slovakia supported your research?
During my time in Slovakia, I conducted my research at the University of Economics in Bratislava, specifically within the Faculty of International Relations. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed by the faculty and colleagues, which gave me the opportunity to connect with experts in my field. The supportive academic environment, combined with access to valuable resources such as think tanks and research materials, significantly contributed to my work and personal growth.
Living in HOPA, a centrally located accommodation surrounded by green spaces and a vibrant student community, provided the perfect balance between focus and relaxation. It became a space where I could both concentrate on my research and explore my personal interests. The openness of the university members, along with the collaborative spirit I encountered, motivated me to push myself further—not just for my own academic progress, but also to represent my home university and country with pride.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience was building lasting relationships. Some of the colleagues I met in Slovakia later visited Romania through exchange programs, strengthening our academic and cultural connections. At the time, I had no idea that I would return to Bratislava again and again, developing my favorite cafés, scenic walking routes, and a circle of friends that made the city feel like a second home. Looking back, I am grateful that I made the most of my time there, producing tangible research results and publications while immersing myself in everything the experience had to offer.

Could you describe your experience working with your research team in Slovakia?
Since my research focused on a primarily qualitative analysis of digital diplomacy and was conducted as an independent project, I didn’t work within a dedicated research team. However, I had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with various professors and exchange students, engaging in discussions, data gathering, co-authoring publications, and integrating into different academic structures.
What stood out the most was the openness and dedication of the people I met. It was inspiring to see so many researchers striving to make the most of their resources while remaining deeply committed to their field. From the very beginning, I was welcomed as a peer, and this sense of mutual respect and collaboration made a lasting impression on me.

The connections I built during my time in Slovakia extended far beyond the university. Thanks to the people I met, I even had the chance to visit other countries, and to this day, we continue exchanging messages, ideas, and academic insights. It’s truly remarkable how such experiences create lasting professional and personal bonds.

What are the main differences between conducting research in Slovakia and in your home country?
I wouldn’t say that conducting research in Slovakia is objectively better or worse than in Romania—each has its own unique resources, challenges, and opportunities. However, one noticeable difference is the way researchers are perceived and welcome.
Back home, I might be seen simply as another colleague or student, blending into the academic environment. In Slovakia, however, being an international researcher often came with a sense of being a guest—something I felt through the warmth, openness, and genuine curiosity of those I met. There was a distinct sense of respect and interest in both my work and background, which made the experience even more enriching. This welcoming atmosphere encouraged deeper academic exchanges and collaborations, making my research journey all the more rewarding.

Have you been able to network with other researchers in Slovakia or Central Europe?
Yes, I had multiple opportunities to network with researchers in Slovakia and beyond. I participated in international conferences and academic sessions organized by the university and faculty, engaged in seminars with students, and even hosted lectures. Beyond formal academic settings, I connected with colleagues across campus, interacted with faculty members and international office staff, and took part in networking and social events for foreign researchers.

One of the most memorable aspects of my experience was attending both the opening and closing ceremonies of the academic year(s), which allowed me to witness the strong sense of community within the university.

What resources or support have you found particularly helpful for your research in Slovakia?
One of the most valuable resources for my research in Slovakia was the support of my coordinator—a professor with extensive experience in the field. Their guidance went beyond academic feedback; they provided detailed insights during our discussions and even facilitated introductions to practitioners and high-ranking officials.
This level of support was instrumental in helping me gather data, refine my research, and build meaningful professional connections. Having access to both academic expertise and real-world perspectives enriched my work in ways that would have been difficult to achieve otherwise.

Has your experience in Slovakia influenced your future career plans?
My experience in Slovakia has had a profound impact on my future career plans, particularly in shaping my perspective on academic and professional opportunities in Central and Eastern Europe. Since my first research mobility, I have returned almost yearly—whether through grants, academic programs, or even in my free time.
Beyond just research, this experience has deepened my appreciation for the rich academic and cultural landscapes of lesser-known destinations in the region. It has also inspired me to expand my work to other countries like Poland, Czechia, and Austria, reinforcing my belief that choosing these paths over the more traditional "big metropolis" routes was the right and most rewarding decision. Slovakia played a key role in broadening my horizons, and I now actively encourage friends and colleagues to explore and appreciate what this region has to offer.

How did you find out about CEEPUS Programme?
To my surprise, even as an evaluator for ARACIS—the Romanian Agency for Quality Assurance in Higher Education, which is part of ENQA—I’ve noticed that many people, both in my country and abroad, especially students, are still unaware of the CEEPUS Programme. As part of my work with ARACIS, I travelled across Romania, visiting various universities to assess the quality assurance standards in higher education institutions. Through these experiences, I realized how crucial international mobility programs are for students and researchers, yet many opportunities remain underpromoted, which was confirmed during my participation in international conferences and activities.

I actually discovered CEEPUS by chance while actively searching for grants and mobility opportunities. One discovery led to another, and that’s how I first found the National Scholarship Programme of the Slovak Republic and later CEEPUS. CEEPUS is a fantastic initiative that, with better visibility, has the potential to gain the same level of recognition as other well-known European programs. What sets it apart is its simplified application process and the unique freedom it offers to explore and engage with neighboring countries, making international collaboration more accessible and enriching.

How do you find the amount of your scholarship? Does it cover your monthly expenses?
Slovakia offers one of the most attractive scholarship rates among CEEPUS countries, particularly when considering the cost of living in its major cities. I found the scholarship to be sufficient, covering most—if not all—of my expenses at times. That being said, as living costs continue to rise, some adjustments may be necessary to keep up with current economic trends. However, overall, the financial support provides a comfortable experience, allowing scholars to focus on their research and fully immerse themselves in their academic and cultural journey rather than worrying about making ends meet.

What motivated you to choose Slovakia for your research stay? Please provide at least three
My decision to come to Slovakia was incredibly spontaneous and somewhat serendipitous. With only a few days left before the National Scholarship Programme (NSP) deadline, a very kind and welcoming person at EUBA took a chance on me and guided me through the process. That act of generosity set everything in motion, and before I knew it, I was on my way to Bratislava. Once I arrived, I was immediately captivated by three things. First, the city itself—Bratislava is a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity, offering a peaceful yet dynamic environment for research and personal growth. Second, the people—whether at the university or throughout my travels across the country, I found Slovaks to be incredibly warm, helpful, and welcoming, which made me feel at home. Finally, Slovakia’s central location in Europe made it an ideal place for both academic collaboration and travel, providing opportunities to connect with researchers from neighboring countries while also exploring new cultures.

Over time, these factors kept drawing me back, and I realized that Slovakia is truly one of Europe’s hidden gems—offering a unique and enriching experience for researchers and students alike.

Would you recommend the CEEPUS programme to other researchers?
Absolutely! I would strongly encourage researchers at any stage of their academic journey to take advantage of mobility opportunities abroad, and CEEPUS is one of the best options available. What makes this program particularly appealing is its clear and straightforward procedures, significantly less bureaucratic complexity compared to other grant providers, and well-adapted scholarships that align with the cost of living in host countries.

Additionally, CEEPUS offers a high degree of flexibility—allowing scholars to choose their research partners, structure their activities, and determine the length of their stay with considerable independence. The program is also backed by strong support networks, both through national agencies and local university staff, ensuring a smooth transition and a fulfilling research experience. On top of that, Slovakia itself is a welcoming and accommodating place, making the entire experience even more rewarding.

Do you have any advice for future international researchers considering a stay in Slovakia?
My biggest piece of advice is to take the time to fully explore Slovakia—not just its landscapes and cities, but also its people and culture. There are so many hidden gems that you might not notice at first, and engaging with locals will reveal perspectives and experiences that are both fascinating and enriching.
Depending on your background, you may find yourself either pleasantly surprised by certain cultural nuances or feeling an unexpected sense of familiarity. For those coming from Western countries, some traditions and ways of life might be eye-opening, while those from Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) may often find themselves thinking, "Ah, this feels just like home!" or "This makes perfect sense."

Embracing this blend of the familiar and the unexpected will make your research stay in Slovakia not only academically rewarding but also personally meaningful.

Have you participated in other international scholarship programmes before? How does this one compare?
Yes, I have participated in several international mobility programs for researchers and PhD students, as well as summer schools, training programs, and intensive courses. These ranged from well-established, large-scale initiatives to more specialized and niche opportunities, both across Europe and worldwide.

What makes CEEPUS stand out is its unique focus on fostering collaboration within Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Unlike many programs that encourage scholars to look outward for academic and professional growth, CEEPUS actively promotes regional exchange, encouraging researchers to connect, share knowledge, and build lasting academic bridges within CEE. This is particularly valuable for a region that has so much to offer but is often overlooked in favor of more traditional research destinations. The program creates a space where scholars can discover the richness of their own academic and cultural neighborhood, which is both refreshing and highly rewarding.

What do you consider the most rewarding aspect of this scholarship?
One of the most fulfilling aspects of this scholarship is the opportunity to build something entirely from scratch—independently shaping a research project, achieving tangible results, and contributing valuable knowledge to the field, all while being immersed in a new cultural and academic environment.
Beyond the research itself, the experience of living and working abroad allows me to deepen my understanding of local cultures, their particularities, and unique perspectives. The combination of academic growth and cultural immersion fills gaps in my own knowledge and broadens my perspective in ways that would be difficult to achieve otherwise.

How has your scholarship experience in Slovakia influenced your perspective on international research collaboration?
My experience in Slovakia has truly opened my eyes to the vast opportunities that exist in international research collaboration. Coming here reinforced my desire to pursue an academic career, further deepening my passion for exploring complex topics and providing meaningful teaching support to students worldwide.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that perspectives and nuances—especially in fields like international relations, foreign policy, and regional studies—cannot be fully understood through books alone. Engaging with researchers from different backgrounds and immersing myself in diverse academic environments has helped me develop a more balanced and informed approach to my work. It has also expanded my professional network and strengthened my expertise by fostering intellectual exchanges that challenge my assumptions and broaden my analytical framework.

I strongly believe that the future of research in our region lies in collaboration. By joining forces, sharing ideas, and building on each other’s work, we can generate meaningful insights and solutions that directly benefit our communities. Many of the challenges we face are not confined to national borders—they are regional and even global. The more we work together, the better equipped we are to address them in a way that is both impactful and sustainable.

What differences have you noticed between Slovakia and your home country?
Surprisingly, I have found more similarities than differences between Slovakia and my home country. However, there are a few unique aspects that stand out.

One of the first things I noticed—especially in Bratislava—is the more relaxed pace of life. People here seem calm and unhurried, taking life as it comes, often joking about both the past and the future with a lighthearted attitude. There is also a deep appreciation for nature and sports, with Slovaks taking great pride in their landscapes and outdoor activities.

Culturally, Slovakia has a vibrant yet understated artistic scene that reflects its rich history and creative spirit. At the same time, people tend to be humble and grounded, placing more value on life’s simple pleasures rather than grand extravagance. Compared to Romania, where we have a more passionate, expressive, and distinctly Latin approach to life, Slovakia feels more picturesque and composed—a sort of “cool-blooded” temperament that blends tradition with a quiet confidence.

Are there any activities or places in Slovakia that you would recommend to others?
One place that left a lasting impression on me is the Saint Michael Archangel Church near Nitra, one of the oldest churches in Slovakia, dating back to the 11th century. This site, in many ways, encapsulates the essence of Slovakia: a rich historical legacy presented in a minimalist yet profound way, breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and city, and an atmosphere of deep tranquillity. It’s the perfect spot to pause, reflect, and reconnect—with history, nature, and even oneself.
For art lovers, I highly recommend visiting Danubiana, a contemporary art gallery located right on the banks of the Danube River, just outside Bratislava. The combination of modern art, water views, and serene surroundings makes it a unique cultural experience.
For food enthusiasts, exploring the villages around Pezinok—particularly Slovenský Grob—is a must. These areas are famous for their traditional goose dishes, a culinary tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. There’s even a dedicated Goose Festival, offering a fascinating (and delicious) dive into Slovakia’s gastronomic heritage.

Which Slovak cities have you visited, and which ones did you enjoy the most?
Having access to a car allowed me to explore not just Bratislava but also many of the surrounding regions in great detail. While Bratislava remains my favourite city for its blend of history, culture, and urban charm, I also had the chance to visit Trnava, Nitra, Trenčín, and Žilina more extensively.Each place has its own charm, but Trenčín stood out to me the most. The city’s medieval atmosphere, highlighted by its impressive Trenčín Castle and beautifully preserved old town, creates a truly special ambiance. The mix of history, architecture, and the scenic surroundings made it one of the most enjoyable places I’ve visited in Slovakia.

Have you faced any difficulties in your daily life in Slovakia?
Not really—I found it incredibly straightforward and easy to settle in, especially coming from the EU, where most practical aspects like banking, getting a SIM card, insurance, or permits require little to no effort. Slovakia provides a welcoming and hassle-free environment for digital nomads and international visitors, making it easy to feel at home within just a few days.
Bratislava, in particular, stands out for its excellent connectivity with the rest of Europe. It’s amazing how you can attend an exhibition in Vienna in the morning and be back by the afternoon or take a quick weekend trip to Budapest or Czechia. This accessibility adds to the ease of living and enhances the overall experience of being based in Slovakia.

Do you think you’ll return to Slovakia someday?
I plan—and very much hope—to continue my tradition of visiting Slovakia at least once a year. Who knows? If the right opportunity presents itself, I could see myself establishing something more permanent, whether through collaborations with civil society organizations (CSOs), private initiatives, or even considering it as a place to retire. Slovakia has left a lasting impression on me, and I’d love to keep my connection with it alive.

How have you found Slovak people? Are they welcoming and helpful to you as an international researcher, or did you face any challenges?
Slovaks have been incredibly welcoming—especially towards Romanians. I was pleasantly surprised by how eager people were to help, share their knowledge, and guide me through different aspects of life here. What I found particularly admirable is their curiosity and openness. They acknowledge their country’s strengths and limitations in a humble and constructive way, always showing a genuine interest in learning from other cultures and exchanging experiences. This mindset makes interactions with Slovak people not only enjoyable but also enriching.

What surprised you the most about Slovakia? Did you experience any culture shock?
What surprised me the most was how unapologetically and authentically "European" Slovakia feels. In many ways, it embodies the idealized vision of Europe—a seamless blend of history, culture, and modernity, where medieval castles, Gothic townhouses, and brutalist industrial structures coexist in perfect harmony.
Rather than experiencing a culture shock, I was fascinated by how naturally Slovakia fits into the "united in diversity" narrative of Europe. From East to West, North to South, Slovakia seems to encapsulate everything that makes the continent unique—rich traditions, diverse architectural influences, and a deep-rooted appreciation for heritage. It was a pleasant surprise to see how well it bridges different historical and cultural identities into a cohesive national character.

How do you like Slovak cuisine? What is your favorite Slovak dish, if you’ve tried any?
While I wouldn’t single out a specific dish, Kofola, the iconic Slovak soft drink, is definitely something everyone should try. Its unique, love-it-or-hate-it taste is a true Slovak experience! Alongside that, the wide variety of local sweets and snacks offer a delightful taste of the country’s culinary culture. From the rich, creamy desserts to the savory pastries, Slovakia’s selection of treats is something I thoroughly enjoyed exploring.

What advice would you give to other international researchers for adapting to life in Slovakia?
Just be open, explore as much as you can, dare to ask and enjoy it.