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Dear Rector, university employees, and fellow students It is a great honor for me to stand before you as we embark on a new academic year, setting forth on a journey of exploration and growth. Today marks the beginning of your journey - it will be exciting, challenging, and sometimes quite difficult. Remember, though, that nothing easy is worth doing. Let us cast aside the fear of attempting something difficult. What matters is taking one step at a time, and eventually, You'll end up with an amazing view from the heights of a mountain. Remember that You don't have to do it alone at all costs. You are surrounded by people who are ready to help You with advice and support whenever needed. A few years back I also sat in this hall for the first time. I thought I would only focus on my studies. I believed I came here only to read books and complete my assignments. I was sure that I was not the kind of person who wanted to meet a lot of people and participate in extracurricular activities. I could not have been more wrong. My university experience has exceeded all expectations I could have never dreamt that during my time at university, I would be leading a student organization, initiating projects, or getting involved in areas that are deeply important to me, such as student well-being and mental health. And if that sounds distant to you right know, believe me: I was once in your shoes. All these accomplishments emerged through the simple act of keeping an open mind and focusing to take one step after another, one step at a time. Throughout this week, you have heard repeatedly to join student organizations, make connections, and be part of Tallinn University of Technology's unique student life.But why is this emphasized so much? It's not only making friends for life, or having fun at parties, or even making school more manageable. However, there are many more reasons. Working together towards a common goal fosters strength and self- confidence, and provides you with new skills. It is a safety net that keeps you from falling off the track. I am here today because of the people who supported me. Only a few manage graduating university on their own and their university experience is much poorer for it. Most learning takes place outside the classroom. It happens during late evenings spent in student organizations, sharing experiences, collaborative efforts after lectures, or even in the creation of a startup with a coursemate during a hackathon. Such opportunities emerge only when we work together. Alone You will go fast, but together we can go further. You take the first step. Take a moment to think about what that first step will be. Could it be attending an introductory session for a student organization? Do you have the courage to start a conversation with the person next to you? Or perhaps you schedule a meeting with someone who stood out to you on campus? The choice is yours, but the important that you take the first step. Should the outcome not meet your expectations, do not lose hope — try again! I wish you courage and an open mind for the journey ahead. Have an amazing start to the academic year, and long live TalTech!

The student council of Tallinn University of Technology has the largest number of active members in Estonia. It consists of several bodies - the Representative Council, the Board of the Student Union and the staff. In addition to the student council, the student councils of the faculties and the revision committee also operate in the university. Although the picture may seem motley, each organ has its own specific task and purpose. Everything starts with the students - every year (February-March) all students of the University of Technology can vote for a candidate of their faculty in the elections of the Board of Representatives. What is the Representative Assembly? The Representative Council can be compared to the Riigikogu. It is a 15-member democratically elected supreme decision-making body of students. The representative council includes students from all faculties. What does the Representative Council do? The purpose of the representative body is to stand for the interests of students. To this end, the Representative Council adopts positions on important topics and directs projects that develop students' learning and action opportunities. For example, last school year, the Representative Council confirmed its position on mental health issues. The work of the representative body is very versatile. The duties of the members also include electing members of the student body's board and student representatives to the decision-making bodies, approving the student body's budget and much more. During their work, students who are part of the representative council gain valuable experience and a wide network of contacts. Regular meetings of the representative body are held once a month and every student can attend them. Meeting times, meeting agendas and minutes can be found on TalTech's website. Student Union Board The representative body elects the board of the student body. Board members are also, in a way, the face of TalTech's student council - they can be seen giving speeches at ceremonies and various student life events. The board represents the student body both at the University of Technology and among other higher education institutions, organizes the work of the student council, determines the development and operational directions of the organization. The board consists of three members: the chairman and members of the board in the field of education and student life. Currently, these positions are filled by Joosep Perandi, Karoliina Rebane and Anna Suzdalev, respectively. Members of the board are elected for two academic years. Student council staff Coordinator of student organizations, coordinator of the mascot Juulius Tipika, chairman of the funding committee, events coordinator, human resources manager... These are all positions in the staff of the student council. Staff positions are filled by active and enthusiastic students who are responsible for a specific field or activity. For example, thanks to the ÜE photographer, the events of student life are remembered with awesome photos, and thanks to the event coordinator, the student body's birthday takes place in September every year. There are various tasks and positions in the staff of the student council. You can usually join the staff in the spring, when a public competition is announced to fill vacant positions. However, it is worth keeping an eye on the announcements throughout the year, as vacancies may arise at other times as well, and project managers are often sought for various events. Information about vacant positions is shared both on the Facebook of the student union and on the TalTech website. Student assemblies of the faculty While the Representative Council represents all TalTech students, the student councils of the faculties represent the students of the respective faculty. The student councils of the faculties do not belong to the student council, but they are the bodies of the student body. On the TalTech website , you can find the contact details of the student associations of all faculties. Student associations not only do serious work, but also organize exciting student life events, cooperate with companies in the field, and offer students opportunities for self-development. Student associations also become a wide network of professional contacts. Student representatives in decision-making bodies As the name suggests, decision-making bodies deal with the adoption of decisions. Decision-making bodies are, for example, the TalTech senate, faculty councils, the general meeting of the NGO TTU Student Village. It is possible to discuss various drafts in decision-making bodies or to initiate them yourself. More important processes that affect the development of the faculty/university are also often introduced. All students can apply for decision-making bodies. Elections are usually held in the spring. Audit Committee All activities are monitored by the audit committee. The audit committee is an independent control body whose task is to check the conformity of the activities of the board, staff and representative body with the decisions of the student council, the correctness of accounting and the purposefulness and legality of the use of property and resources. Both students and alumni of the University of Technology can apply for the revision committee. Conclusion Every student can join the student body! Be it the Representative Council, the staff of the student council, the student council of the faculty or any other. The members of this awesome and active community stand for good quality education and a student life full of opportunities. They do their work with a great sense of mission and contribute to the advancement of student life and education at TalTech. In addition, with any student body, membership is not just about getting the job done. Members can take part in awesome motivational events and outings, develop themselves in many ways and work in a nice team. If the University of Technology is going well for you, keep an eye on Juulius Tipika's social media channels on Facebook and Instagram , come to the meeting of the Representative Council or let us know your ideas-concerns-proposals! In addition, keep your eyes and ears open so that you don't miss an announcement to join one of the student bodies!

Author: Rimsha Noor Discover Spring in Tallinn: Must-Visit Places for experiencing spring on a Budget Tallinn, Estonia's captivating capital, offers abundant spring activities for local, international and Erasmus students at TalTech. As the city blossoms with vibrant colours and events, there's no better time to dive into Tallinn's rich cultural experiences. Here's a list of top budget-friendly spring activities in Tallinn to help you make the most of your international student experience: Free Museums date: At the end of each month, many museums in Tallinn offer free admission, giving you the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Estonian history and culture. Be sure to check out the KUMU Art Museum, the Estonian History Museum, and the Estonian Maritime Museum, among others. Relax at Pirita or Stroomi Beach: As the weather warms, consider heading to Pirita or Stroomi Beach to unwind and soak up the sun. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, take a refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea, or engage in beach activities with your fellow students. You can also enjoy painting, playing volleyball or just chilling with your friends at the beach. Picnic in Kadriorg Park: This expansive park is home to the stunning Kadriorg Palace, the KUMU Art Museum, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Spend a leisurely afternoon picnicking with friends, surrounded by nature, as you take in the tranquil scenery. Experience Tallinn Music Week: Typically held in spring, Tallinn Music Week is an annual festival celebrating music, art, and urban culture. Discover an eclectic mix of local and international talent through concerts, film screenings, and art exhibitions hosted in various venues across Tallinn. There are a handful of concerts happening in Tallinn in spring, so grab a ticket and enjoy. Visit Lahemaa National Park: A short drive from Tallinn, Lahemaa National Park provides a picturesque escape to Estonia's natural beauty. Hike through forests, explore coastal villages, and observe diverse wildlife, including a walk along the Viru Bog Trail – a must-see wetland experience. Water sports: Tallinn's coastline and nearby waterways provide excellent opportunities for kayaking. You can explore the city's shoreline, discover hidden coves, or paddle along the Pirita River. Several local companies offer guided tours or equipment rentals for kayaking. For adrenaline seekers, jet skiing is a thrilling way to enjoy the waters around Tallinn. Rent a jet ski and zip along the coastline, taking in the stunning views and enjoying the thrill of the ride. With its stunning coastline and diverse waterways, Tallinn offers numerous water-related activities for visitors. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, there's something for everyone in this beautiful Baltic city. By incorporating these budget-friendly activities into your spring itinerary, you'll enrich your international student experience and create lasting memories during your time in Tallinn. Embrace Estonia's unique cultural offerings and seize the opportunity to explore all that Tallinn has to offer this spring without breaking the bank. You can also check out ESN TalTech IC’s official page to some fun and budget-friendly spring activities and get to meet the wholesome international community that TalTech has to offer. Don’t be shy; put yourself out there and have the best time of your life by making friends from all over the world!

In such a large organization as the University of Technology, when a problem arises, it can be confusing who it would be best to turn to. Below is a list of who does what and where, so that the picture is a little clearer and every concern can be resolved :) Lectures - All questions and problems related to the organization and evaluation of the course. Program manager - Issues related to the curriculum, such as the structure of the curriculum, choosing a major/specialization, thesis topic, further study opportunities in the chosen field, and assessing the suitability of subjects when studying abroad. Also, the program manager helps with problems that have not been solved directly with the lecturer. Dean's office, study consultants - All study organization issues, for example: study plan, declaring subjects, completing the study load, certificates, documents, applications, academic leave, internship, going to study abroad, changing the curriculum. Internship coordinator - Each internship subject has an internship coordinator who is an advisor and, if necessary, recommends internships, explains, and specifies the requirements for the internship and the field of activity. Sometimes a separate internship coordinator is appointed for all fields of study within the faculty. For more information on internship arrangements, you can ask your faculty's dean's office. Vice-dean of academic affairs – Academic issues across the faculty. Issues that have not been resolved by discussion with the program manager. Counselling center - Always there if you are not quite sure who to turn to! If the previous contacts were aimed at academic concerns, the counselling center can be contacted with personal concerns in addition to them. There are student advisors who advise students or, if necessary, find the right contact at the university to turn to. It is not necessary to book an appointment in advance to contact the counselling center, it is open Mon-Fri and you can quickly contact the counsellors via the chat application of the student portal (student.taltech.ee). In addition, the specialists of the counselling center offer various counselling services, which are free of charge for TalTech students: study and career counselling, counselling in mathematics and physics, psychological counselling, and counselling for students with special needs. It is also worth keeping an eye on the seminars organized by the counselling center (taltech.ee/seminarid). Tutors - The Counselling Center also has tutors who are senior year students who help younger students with university-related issues. If you have questions about the major or university life from the student's point of view, you can contact the tutor of your major! Student Union - If you feel that no one else is able to help with the problem, or if you don't dare to approach the university staff yourself, the Student Union is always there to help. If you need help with a problem that the university staff has already dealt with, but a solution has not yet been reached, it will be useful if things have been done in writing so that you can forward the correspondence to the Student Union. In addition, the Student Union can help if you feel there are problems with student representation or involvement on a topic. It is definitely worth contacting the Student Union if you have an exciting idea for a project aimed at students - SU can help you both with the implementation of the project and with the application for funding! Student Council of Faculty - If there are ideas that could be better in the faculty, what events related to the faculty could be held. IT helpdesk/user support - Provides support related to various IT solutions (including instructional materials, primary technical support, etc.). Library - library staff can assist with finding various sources and compiling research papers, and can also provide training on various research-related skills, such as academic writing or database usage. In addition, the library may offer spaces for group work or quiet studying. Please to not hesitate to reach out to these resources, as they are there to provide assistance and guidance. By taking advantage of these resources, students can improve their academic and personal experiences at the university.

On April 11, 2023, a meeting of the Student Parliament was held, during which the mental health statements of TalTech students were confirmed: Faculty members are aware of the impact of students' mental health on their studies and take it into consideration. At the beginning of each semester, faculty members provide students with a schedule of all deadlines. Faculty members regularly participate in seminars on mental health topics. The university ensures a balance between students' academic and work-life. The university provides flexible curricula and teaching methods. The university advocates for an increase in student study support. The university supports students' integration and the formation of friendships throughout the academic year. All students receive timely assistance in seeking psychological counseling. Communication on mental health topics is improved within the university. University information channels make it easy to find where to seek help for mental health problems. Useful evidence-based materials and case studies on mental health are shared through university information channels. The university regularly organizes events on mental health topics such as seminars, training, and information days. In order to improve the quality of psychological counseling, feedback on the counseling center's activities is regularly collected. The university develops a mental health action plan and conducts additional studies among both students and staff. The beginning of this process dates back to November 2021, when the TalTech Mental Health Working Group was created to raise awareness of the importance of mental health and draw the attention of the rectorate to the students' desire for the university to pay more attention to this issue. The working group was guided by the Mental Health Implementation Plan section of the Estonian Student Union "What Can Student Unions Do?" The task of the working group was to assess the mental health situation of students, analyze various variables that contribute to students' mental health, and gather recommendations in one document for both the university and the students themselves to help support students' mental health. To this end, a survey was conducted in October 2022, with 694 TalTech students participating. The survey put forward three hypotheses: mental health problems are a widely prevalent issue among students; mental health problems/conditions are associated with difficulties in academic progress; information on mental health and related services at the university is not easily accessible or sufficient for students. The first hypothesis was confirmed. Almost one-third of the respondents have been diagnosed with mental health problems, and almost two-thirds received a score higher than the threshold on the EEK-2 questionnaire indicating the risk of depression. The second hypothesis was confirmed based on the students' own assessments. About two-thirds of the respondents felt that their mental health had interfered with their studies, for example, by obtaining a lower grade or failing a course. 86.2% of respondents felt the negative impact of the learning environment on their mental health and identified academic pressure and the difficulty of balancing work and study as the main factors contributing to their mental health problems. The first half of the third hypothesis was confirmed: slightly more than half of the respondents (51%) either did not know or were not sure that free psychological counseling is offered at the university. A definite conclusion cannot be drawn about the second half of the hypothesis, but only 9.4% of the respondents had used the counseling service provided by the university. There were also some respondents who had contacted a psychologist but did not receive a response.

Author: Rimsha Noor Once upon a time, in the vibrant city of Tallinn, a group of adventurous students embarked on a journey to discover the wonders of international experiences. They longed to immerse themselves in new cultures, broaden their horizons, and make unforgettable memories with friends worldwide. Little did they know that their quest was about to lead them to a magical event that would bring them closer to their dreams than they had ever imagined. This is where ESN Got Talent comes in, an event that embodies the spirit of multiculturalism, giving you a taste of the incredible international exposure you've been craving. Erasmus Got Talent is more than just a talent show. It's a melting pot of cultures where students from various backgrounds share their unique talents and stories. By attending this event, you'll not only witness a dazzling array of creative expressions but also develop a deeper appreciation for the richness of our global community. You'll also enjoy tasty snacks from generous sponsors like Prisma, DoDo Pizza, Taffel Snacks, and more. ESN Got Talent is open to all Erasmus, international, and local students, making it an excellent opportunity to network and forge new friendships. The supportive and lively atmosphere will encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, share your own talents, or simply enjoy the diverse talents of your fellow students. Additionally, attending this event supports a great cause. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Estonian Animal Protection Association, meaning you'll contribute to a worthy cause while enjoying a fantastic evening of multicultural entertainment. So, if you're looking for an unforgettable international experience in Tallinn, don't miss out on ESN Got Talent. Come to perform or just watch, and let this amazing event expand your horizons, while making memories with friends from around the world. For more details, check Erasmus Got Talent

Clause 4.2 of the coalition agreement is higher education and research funding. The fact that higher education was included in the coalition agreement gives an idea that it was really talked about and the students' voice was heard, it was taken more seriously and discussed. However, we cannot be absolutely sure how and if these points will be fulfilled. The future Minister of Education and Science is Kristina Kallas, who has said that universities will have the opportunity to ask for money for Estonian-language education. The agreement supports free Estonian-language higher education, but universities may, in certain cases, establish tuition fees for Estonian-language studies as well. In other words, we will have free education in Estonian, but the universities can change it themselves. 4.2.4 brings the possibility to ask for tuition fees in doctor studies in exceptional cases - in a situation where the succession of researchers and academic staff in Estonia is in a rather difficult situation and the number of students entering doctoral studies has decreased by a third in the last ten years. In addition, it is promised to increase the operating support of higher education by 15% in the next three years and to increase the involvement of private money in order to increase the financing of higher education to 1.5% of GDP. Incentives are created for the growth of companies' higher education investments. To increase funding, the offer of paid learning opportunities will be expanded (for example, part-time studies, one-year master's programs). According to the EÜL, this has its dangers, it can open Pandora's box, where more one-year study programs are directed towards, where the cuts in study material can be quite large, and the process in general does not coincide with European trends to harmonize higher education with the 3+2 Bologna system (bachelor's + master's). The most important point for students is definitely 4.2.9, where it is promised to double the need-based study support. After 10 years of stagnation, we can finally hope that 75 euros could become 150 euros. Currently, it is 75, 135 or 220 euros, depending on the student's average monthly income per family member. The point is very general and at the moment it is not known when and under what conditions it will happen. The student unions also asked to change that the student is separated from his household income when the student is 21 years old, not like now, when it happens only at the age of 24, whether it will be changed in the following years, we don't know yet. 4.2.8 student loan reform is allowed, the tuition amount is increased by €6,000 and the repayment period is extended. However, a lot also depends on the interest rate and other terms of the contract that come with it. At the moment, there are not many students who would take a student loan, and this way of thinking should also be changed in such a case. At the moment, the coalition agreement seems good and supportive of higher education, but the conditions will become clear during the work, and because of this, one cannot sit completely still, but must monitor how all these points are implemented so that they support higher education.

TalTech Student Parliament Elections took place March 1-22, 2023. All TalTech students had the opportunity to apply from February 6 to 22. There were a total of 23 candidates across the five faculties: 6 in the School of Engineering, 5 in Estonian Maritime Academy, 4 in the School of Science, 4 in the School of IT and 4 in the School of Business and Governance. There are 15 members in the Student Parliament, and the mandates were distributed among the faculties as follows: four mandates each for the School of Engineering and IT, three mandates for the School of Business and Governance, and two mandates each for the School of Science and the Estonian Maritime Academy. One of the candidates from the School of IT, Karoliina Rebane, gave up her place in the Student Parliament because she was elected as a member of the board of the student body in the field of education. Since the number of candidates in the School of IT was equal to the number of mandates, the replacement mandate was distributed based on a general ranking covering all faculties, and it went to a candidate from the School of Science. For the first time, the elections were held in the Student Portal. The elections were very successful in terms of voter turnout: this year’s voter turnout of 11% is the highest it's been for the last five years. This year's elections were remarkably successful for the Maritime Academy - they almost quadrupled last year's voter turnout. In addition to EMERA, the School of Engineering and the School of Business and Governance also had the highest voter turnout in the last five years. The new membership was announced on March 29, at the Student Parliament’s thank-you event. Members of the Student Parliament 2023/2024: Madis Hendrik Muru, School of Engineering Anet Marii Paumets, School of Engineering Birgit Russka, School of Engineering Kristiina Tammik, School of Engineering Eliise Marta Einpaul, School of Information Technologies Tsun Sing Jason Fong, School of Information Technologies Ragnar Kramm, School of Information Technologies Daniel Aasorg, School of Business and Governance Ana Koiava, School of Business and Governance Villy Tammer, School of Business and Governance Rudolf Bellen, Estonian Maritime Academy Helene Armilde Kudre, Estonian Maritime Academy Anna Jürissaar, School of Science Diana Maslova, School of Science Jan-Erik Vaher, School of Science On the first weekend of April, the new Student Parliament members went on a trip to Valgehobusemäe, where they got to know each other and learned more about their responsibilities. The first meeting of the new Student Parliament membership takes place on April 11 at 6 PM room U01-227/228. The agenda includes: I Reports 1. Regular report of the board of the student council 2. Overview of the Education Quality Working Group II Discussions 3. Second reading of TalTech student mental health views 4. Second reading of the amendments to the student life funding regulation 5. Discussions related to the position of the chairman of the student council Come as a free listener to find out what exciting things are being done in the representative assembly!

Tere, Tere! As an Erasmus or international student in Estonia, you've already had the chance to experience some of the country's beauty and charm. However, with spring just around the corner, there are many exciting cultural events and activities that you won't want to miss out on. This article will share local spots, hidden gems, and cultural recommendations to help you have a FULL Estonian experience and taste life like a local. Visit the National Museum of Estonia: The National Museum of Estonia is a must-visit spot for history lovers. Located in the heart of Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city, the museum offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture. Here, you'll find fascinating exhibits showcasing everything from prehistoric times to the present day. With interactive displays, educational programs, and guided tours, the National Museum of Estonia is an excellent way to learn more about the country's past and present. Explore the Kalamaja Neighborhood: The Kalamaja neighbourhood in Tallinn is a trendy and vibrant area favourite among locals. The neighbourhood features colourful wooden houses, trendy cafes, and boutique shops, making it the perfect afternoon to explore. Head to Telliskivi Creative City, a cultural hub located within the neighbourhood, for a taste of local art, music, and food. Don't forget to snap photos of the colourful street art and murals lining the neighbourhood's walls. Taste Estonian Cuisine: One of the best ways to experience Estonia like a local is to sample the country's delicious cuisine. Estonian cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, featuring ingredients like potatoes, cabbage, and meat. Head to a traditional Estonian restaurant, like Olde Hansa in Tallinn, to try classic dishes like black bread, sauerkraut, and elk stew. If you're feeling adventurous, try lesser-known Estonian dishes like Verivorst or head cheese. Experience Estonian Saunas: Saunas are essential to Estonian culture and offer a relaxing and rejuvenating way to unwind. Estonian saunas differ from traditional saunas in that they are often heated with wood, and water is typically poured over the hot stones to create steam. For a truly authentic experience, head to a traditional Estonian sauna like the Saunamaa in Tallinn. You can also try a smoke sauna, which uses smoke from a wood fire to heat the sauna and provides a unique and unforgettable experience. Estonia has much to offer, from its rich history and culture to its beautiful natural scenery. By exploring local spots and hidden gems and trying Estonian cuisine and saunas, you can have a FULL Estonian experience and truly live like a local. So, take a break from your studies and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Estonia. You won't regret it! P.S To get a full Estonian experience, branch out and befriend the locals. Start a simple conversation and we are sure a simple Tere will go a long way! ESN (Erasmus Student Network) TalTech IC is a student-led organisation that provides support and social events for international students at TalTech. The organisation offers a range of activities, such as parties, trips, cultural events, and sports. Joining ESN TalTech IC is an excellent way to meet new people, explore Estonia, and maximise your study abroad experience. ESN TalTech IC also offers a mentorship program that pairs new international students with a local Estonian student, providing a support network and a source of valuable information. Authors: Rimsha Noor, Ayesha Noor

Studying abroad can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life, especially when you're studying as an Erasmus student at TalTech in Estonia. After being in Estonia for more than a month, you may have already experienced the beauty of the country, its rich culture, and the welcoming atmosphere of the university. But what's next? Let’s learn how to maximise the memories and learn from this Erasmus experience. Spring in Estonia: Spring is a magical time in Estonia. After a long, dark winter, the country comes alive with trees and flowers blossoming. The weather starts warming up, and people spend more time outdoors. Several outdoor festivals and events occur during spring, including Tallinn Music Week and the Estonian Music Days. So, make sure you explore the city during the springtime to enjoy its beauty and vibrancy. But is spring already here? Let’s keep our fingers crossed! Learn Estonian: If you're studying abroad in Estonia, learning the language and meeting the locals is a good idea. While most people in Estonia speak English, learning Estonian can be an excellent way to immerse yourself in the culture and connect with the locals. Moreover, it will make your daily life easier, whether ordering food at a restaurant or shopping at a local store. TalTech offers Estonian language courses for international students, so take advantage of this opportunity to learn a new language and enhance your cultural experience. Making Friends for Life: One of the most exciting aspects of studying abroad is the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and build friendships that can last a lifetime. As an Erasmus student at TalTech, you can connect with other international students and local Estonian students. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and start a conversation with someone new. Everyone is in the same boat, and most people want to make friends too. Joining clubs and societies and attending events is an excellent way to meet new people and build connections. Don’t forget to branch out of your comfort zone. Put Yourself Out There: Studying abroad is a great opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. Don't be afraid to try new foods, explore new places, and experience new cultures. TalTech offers many opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities, including sports teams, cultural events, and student clubs. This is a great way to get to know people with similar interests. Additionally, Estonia is known for its natural beauty, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors through hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to expand your horizons, learn new things, and make lifelong connections. While it can be challenging to adjust to a new environment, especially if you're far away from home, there are plenty of resources and opportunities available to help you make the most of your experience. So, put yourself out there, join clubs and attend events. Embrace the new culture, and you will undoubtedly come out of this experience with a new perspective on the world and some friends for life. Author: Rimsha Noor