Studying Together, Dreaming Together. From Azerbaijan to WSB University

When they began their master’s studies at WSB University, their son Nihat was three years old. With in-person classes held at weekends, when his kindergarten was closed, he came to university with his parents. Before long, he knew all their lecturers by name, and they were bringing him paper and coloured pencils. Aysel Azizli, a Management graduate specialising in International Business, shares her experience of moving from Azerbaijan, studying alongside her husband Emil and finding the support that helped her combine education with motherhood. 

Why did you decide to study in Poland, and what drew you to WSB University? 
We are originally from Azerbaijan, where my husband and I grew up, lived and completed our bachelor’s degrees. After some time, we decided to continue our education and pursue our master’s degrees in Europe. Since we were planning to move with our child, finding a safe, family-friendly country was very important to us. Poland caught our attention because of its culture, quality of education and welcoming environment for families. 
While exploring universities, we discovered WSB University. What attracted us was the quality of education and, especially, the hybrid learning system. We felt it would help us balance our studies with family life. That was how our new adventure began. 

You studied Management with a specialisation in International Business. What do you remember most fondly? 
Meeting people from different countries and cultures. Sharing ideas, hearing different perspectives and learning from each other were particularly valuable to me. These experiences made my time at university even more special. For me, studying was about gaining knowledge and learning to see the world from a different perspective. 

How did you find your place in an international academic environment? 
From the very beginning, we felt supported by our lecturers and the university staff. Whenever we had questions or needed help, people were kind, understanding and ready to assist us. Our lecturers’ support was especially valuable: they shared their knowledge and helped us feel comfortable and grow in confidence. 
We also really enjoyed group projects. We came from different countries, but we shared the same goal: to support each other, work together and make our team stronger. Thanks to these experiences, we never felt like strangers in a new country. Over time, WSB University became a place where we truly felt we belonged. 

Moving abroad, starting university and caring for a child is a major change. What was the biggest challenge at the beginning? 
To be honest, we did not face any major difficulties. Of course, everything was new: the city, the people, our daily routine and university life. But we felt more excited than afraid. Every day, we discovered something new and gradually built our own routine. Adjusting to university life was easier than we expected. The hybrid learning system helped us balance our studies with family life, and our lecturers’ understanding made us feel more comfortable. Looking back, I would say the biggest challenge was simply getting used to a new life. We managed it together, step by step. 

Your son came to classes with you. What was it like to study with a three-year-old child alongside you? 
Nihat came with us to every in-person class. When we started university, he was only three years old. Our classes took place at weekends, when his kindergarten was closed, so we brought him with us. You could say he began his university journey together with us. Beforehand, I tried to prepare him. I explained how important it was to stay quiet and not disturb others. At first, our lecturers were a little surprised to see such a young child. I think they were worried he might make noise or interrupt the lessons. Once they saw how patient and quiet he was, they became more comfortable. 
Over time, they even started bringing paper and coloured pencils so he would not get bored. Those small, thoughtful gestures really touched our hearts. Nihat became so familiar with university life that he knew all our lecturers by name. One day, a lecturer joked to some students who were talking loudly: “A four-year-old child can sit quietly, but you can’t!” It is one of our funniest memories. Our son became so well known that I think people started recognising us because of him. What mattered most to me was the understanding and kindness we received. I could continue my education while still being there for my child. As a mother, I felt I did not have to choose between following my dreams and taking care of my son. 

Your husband Emil was also your classmate. How do you remember studying together? 
It was a special experience. We attended classes together, worked on assignments and supported each other. At home, we could continue discussing what we had learned. Sometimes we had different opinions, but that made our conversations even more interesting and helped us see things from other perspectives. With Nihat joining us, we were a real family team at university. 

What difference did studying make to your professional and personal life? 
I gained knowledge about international business and learned to consider different perspectives. Working on projects made me more confident in sharing my ideas and making decisions. 
Personally, the experience showed me that it is possible to follow your dreams while taking care of your family. It is not always easy, but good planning and mutual support help you make it work. Looking back, I see that I gained a master’s degree and greater confidence in myself and what I can achieve. 

What would you say to international applicants considering WSB University? 
Learn about the opportunities the University offers and try to make the most of them. Student life also includes experiences beyond classes and exams that can be valuable for your future. I would encourage people to be open to new people, new surroundings and different experiences. Do not be afraid to ask questions, share ideas or try something new. How much we learn from our studies, and how we remember them, also depends on us. From my own experience, WSB University was the right choice for us. We learned a lot, met wonderful people and made memories that will stay with us. I hope future students will look back on their university years as happily as we do.