Today we have the opportunity to interview Shetketu an Indian international student, that comes all the way from the populated Kolkata to the beautiful city of Varna to study his master’s degree in Tourism.
Shetketu is the first Indian to participate in our Expats Stories in Foreigner BG, and we are happy to share his experience with all the expat community in Bulgaria.
Name and nationality:
Shetketu Mitra, From Kolkata India
Tell us a bit about you and what you do
I have done my bachelor’s degree at the University of Kolkata, in Economic and Finance, then I was working as an online website developer because I have studied Visual effects, then last year I went to Singapore, Bangkok, and Malasia to and this trip ignited in me the passion of working in hotels, and tourism industry and as my father is a Chef a culinary professor in Kolkata.
I was planning to go to Singapore and continue my studies there, and at that time a childhood friend suggests me to come to the Varna University of Management since he is also doing his MBA here.
And it’s also a fact that the cost of studying in Bulgaria is cheaper than studying a master’s degree in India.
Why and when did you come to Bulgaria?
I’m in Bulgaria since the 7th of September, and my plan is first to complete my studies then go for an internship and after that, I plan to work in Bulgaria, that’s why I’m also learning the language since I fall in love with the country.
What do you like about your country of origin?
I like that we have the cultural unity in diversity, we have people from all religions and races cast and languages all living together.
That it’s what unites us and what makes us unique, and we are the largest democracy in the world.
What do you like about Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is very peaceful, and the food is good, me been a vegetarian I was told that will be very difficult for me to survive in a European country because the restaurants don’t serve vegetarian food, but I never have any problem all restaurants they have a vegetarian option
Which is your favorite Bulgarian dish?
I don’t remember much of the names but was a dish made of eggplant and vegetables, the bean soup and rice, that’s what I like it.
What was the most difficult bureaucratic procedure you have undergone so far in Bulgaria?
the procedure of shifting to Bulgaria was very much easy for me because of my friend who is studying in Bulgaria as well, dive me in the procedure and also the Varna University of Management was very helpful every time I call them they give me the full support and knowledge to the procedure.
My paperwork started on may and was done by August the 26th.
Mention one important experience you’ve had in Bulgaria :
On the first day of my arrival, at 3.30 am and my friends were waiting for me, and then we went straight to the Black Sea, we reach the sea and at 5.30 am I took a bath in the sea, that’s was something very unique and I love it.
The black sea makes me happy, when I need some happiness I visit the Black Sea.
What languages do you speak other than your mother tongue?
I speak English a bit of French, Bengali is my mother tongue and i also speak Hindi
What countries have you been to?
My first foreign visit was Malaysia last year, then Singapore and after Bangkok also Turkey and Bulgaria
How is your studying going?
The study procedure in Bulgaria is very scientific and helpful, I’m busy with my assignments and I’m enjoying it, for the first time I’m enjoying my studies.
the teachers are very helpful, knowledgeable and always accessible that’s what I like most about the university.
What advice would you give to other people who would like to come to live in Bulgaria?
My advice for everybody will be that Bulgaria is a very tolerant country, and the Balkan people are tolerant, even dough I don’t understand the language that well since I’m learning it, I communicate with signs and symbols people is very helpful and understanding.
How you are learning the language?
I’m learning with the songs, Bulgarian music, I love Chalga music, and also I speak to local that how.
And when I go to the grocery store I try to communicate even I’m not that good at yet, that’s how I’m learning now.
We want to wish Shetketu, success in his studies and we hope to see him around speaking the Bulgarian language to people.
Thank you Shetketu for participate and share your Expat Story with all of us!
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All You Need To Know About Medical Insurance for Foreigners in Bulgaria
Banking In Bulgaria For Expats
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