• 13 October 2025
• 406

Studying abroad is not a phobia, but an opportunity.

Abylaikhan Zhandosuly, a second-year student at Korkyt Ata Kyzylorda University, is currently studying in Belgium as part of an academic mobility program. He shared his impressions of the trip and his experience of studying abroad.

«When I first arrived in Belgium, everything seemed new and special. Starting from the airport, everything around me was clean, quiet, and the people were calm. For a moment, I felt like I was in another world. I immediately noticed that the way people spoke and their lifestyle were completely different», Abylaikhan shared his first impressions.

Abylaikhan learned about this opportunity while he was a university student. Teachers and staff from the international department talked about study abroad programs and encouraged students to participate.

«At the end of my first year, the dean of the institute told me that I was a candidate for academic mobility, and we began the process of collecting documents», he says.

The student, who went to Belgium on an academic mobility program, did not hide the fact that there were some difficulties in obtaining a visa and documents.

«All documents had to be filled out in English and Dutch. There were mistakes and extra expenses, but all that was forgotten the moment I landed in Brussels», the student said.

The Belgian university provides comprehensive support to foreign students. There is an orientation week, and mentors and consultants are available to help. Classes are held in English, and the atmosphere among students is very warm.

«Perhaps it's because we all come from different countries, but a special friendship has developed within the group», says Abylaikhan.

He says he particularly enjoyed the Basic Programming and Computer Network courses.

«On these lessons, we work on specific projects. The professors are qualified, support every idea of the students, and are ready to explain mistakes», says the student.

The experience of studying in Belgium has also changed his outlook on life.

«Before, my only goal was to study and get a scholarship, but now I dream of creating my own project and contributing to society. The conditions here are excellent for students, so you can focus entirely on your studies», he says.

In his free time, Abylaikhan walks around the city with friends, attends cultural events, and plays sports.

«The city is small but very beautiful. In the morning and evening, there is a great opportunity to go for a run in the fresh air», he said.

Belgian students consider Kazakhs to be hard-working and open-minded.

«Most of them know little about Kazakhstan, but they are interested».

«The students at this institution do not judge others, but express their opinions only after getting to know each person personally. This quality serves as a worthy example for all of us», Abylaikhan shared his opinion.

Although life in Belgium is relatively expensive, there are many benefits for students.

«Transportation, dormitory, and food prices are affordable for students. There are many inexpensive supermarkets, so you won't have to worry about everyday life», he says.

According to Abylaikhan, this trip has radically changed his life.

«This experience has made me confident, open and responsible. Studying abroad is an excellent school», says the student.

He offers some brief advice to young people who want to study abroad: «Don't be afraid! Start by collecting your documents, learn the language, and believe in your goal. Seeing the world and studying while you are young is a wonderful opportunity. The worst thing is not fear, but missing out on an opportunity».

Abylaikhan's experience in Belgium is a remarkable example for other students.

Media Center of Korkyt ata Kyzylorda University
Contact phone: 8(7242) 26-21-34
e-mail: media_korkyt@mail.ru