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Paula is a fan of the YUFE Bachelor!
Croatian Paula Hlad is one of the very first students enrolled in the new YUFE Bachelor's programme in Urban Sustainability Studies at the University of Antwerp.
Curious to find out what it is like to study this brand-new programme, we asked Paula a few questions:
Why did you choose this bachelor?
“Finding a programme that truly sparked my interest did not happen immediately. Urban sustainability stood out because it brings together many of the subjects I have always been passionate about: science, history, design, policy, and social studies. It feels like a genuinely blended programme that reflects the complexity of real cities and the challenges they face today.”
Her international background plays a major role in her choice of study programme. Paula grew up in various countries, which sparked her curiosity at an early age about how cities function and how culture, social context and environment influence urban life.
“Being exposed to different cultures and urban environments made me curious about why cities function so differently and how social and environmental contexts influence urban life.”
How has your experience at the University of Antwerp been so far?
“My experience has been positive so far. The academic environment and staff are supportive and welcoming. There is a strong sense that you can ask questions, engage in discussions, and have meaningful conversations both inside and outside the classroom.”
Paula not only enjoys her studies, but also life in Antwerp. The city combines historical charm with an international, vibrant atmosphere. But also the unversity’s campuses have left an impression on her. About the City Campus, she says:: “It gives off serious Cambridge vibes – it’s inspiring and welcoming at the same time."
What do you like most about the programme?
“What I appreciate most is its interdisciplinary nature. It connects environmental concerns with social issues, historical context, policy, and everyday urban experiences. I also really value the flexibility of the programme, as it allows students to explore different directions and gradually discover where their interests truly lie.”
At the end of our conversation, I asked Paula how she would summarise the programme in three emojis. Her answer says a lot about her view on the bachelor's programme:
🌱 “The seed represents growth and development. This bachelor encourages growth in many directions, depending on the path students choose.”
🚲 “The bicycle reflects both Antwerp’s cycling culture and the programme’s focus on sustainable mobility. More broadly, it symbolizes movement, choice, and finding your own direction.”
🌉 “The bridge represents connection: between disciplines, between theory and practice, and between people, places, and ideas. This programme builds a strong foundation while bringing different perspectives together.”
For Paula, this programme is more than just studying. It is an opportunity to discover, connect and grow within the broad and complex theme of urban sustainability.
Find out everything about this international programme within the YUFE alliance, where students from different countries come together and are given a lot of freedom to shape their own studies.