Abdelrahman Aburiala (Palestine), a graduate of RTA bachelor`s study programme Business administration implemented at the Faculty of Economics and Management, gladly shares his experience gained while studying at RTA. ‘I chose RTA because I did not want to study in a big city. I wanted something unique and not crowded. Big cities usually make me feel lost,’ reveals Abdelrahman. ‘The first day I came to the Academy and met my welcoming coordinator Sanda, I knew I had made the right decision,’ he adds. The young specialist says that he will not forget any day spent in Rezekne, ‘Every day here was memorable. Everyone treated me nicely and with respect.’ As especially unforgettable moments Abdelrahman mentions a number of events, for example, the trip to Estonia where he participated in a robotics competition (Abdelrahman was studying Mechatronics at that time) and a trip to Sigulda Tarzan Adventure Park. In Latvia, Abdelrahman got his first skiing experience. ‘It was amazing! I was falling way too many times, but these are one of the best memories nevertheless,’ he is excited. Abdelrahman highly appreciates RTA student mentors` activities and involvement in the work with international students, as it helps them to better adapt to new environment and feel more comfortable. ‘Once, one of our mentors, Linda invited us to take a tour of the old market in Rezekne and I was the only one who was free at the time. After the tour she suggested visiting a small zoo where they had snakes. I had always been afraid of them, but she motivated me to go and I had the greatest experience. I am still so grateful to her, because without Linda I would have never approached and touched snakes. So, thank you, Linda!’ Abdelrahman shares his memories. Friendly atmosphere and welcoming people are those who make everyone feel like at home. ‘I had the chance to participate in the celebration of the 98th anniversary of Latvia through participation in a video made by Latvian TV. I am grateful for that opportunity, because it made me feel welcome and I was honoured to be in such an amazing video. That would not have been possible, if I was not RTA student,’ says Abdelrahman. The staff of RTA encourages students to engage in various activities during their studies, such as participation in projects, conferences, sports, Erasmus, and others. Abdelrahman took the opportunity and, within the Erasmus+ programme, studied in Germany for nine months and underwent Erasmus internship in Bulgaria for three months. He highly appreciates the gained experience, ‘It was a good opportunity to study and practice in those countries. Especially, because my practice was in a 5-star resort. It was an amazing experience!’ Right now, Abdelrahman is not planning further studies, but he knows for sure, ‘If I ever decide to pursue a master’s degree, I`ll do it at RTA. I have studied at other universities before, but I have never seen such a good staff and lecturers as here; all of them helped me in so many ways, they motivated me to study, and I felt welcome. I always recommend RTA to everyone, because RTA is the most helpful university I have ever seen. If you enjoy uniqueness and adventures, come to study at RTA!’