"I'm glad that university has opened doors for me to gain new experiences and life skills," says future doctor Tereza Kunzová
This year, thanks to the University of Ostrava's ambassador program, Tereza Kunzová has become the face of the medical faculty. She is studying medicine in Ostrava and is currently leading the University Student for a Trial project. From the very beginning, Terka approached her studies with maximum responsibility, dedicating almost all her free time to studying. However, after two years, as she puts it, she started to "lose her mind a little." So she decided to set aside more time for herself and began practicing acrobatics, among other activities. When asked what has been the most challenging aspect of her studies so far, she answers without hesitation: "Finding my study routine and, most importantly, not comparing myself to others."
I'll be honest; no, it wasn't. My first choice was to study medicine in Olomouc. I also had the option to get into the First Faculty of Medicine in Prague based on my grades, but in the end, I decided not to enroll there and chose the University of Ostrava instead. Looking back, I'm really happy with my decision because I enjoy studying here. Of course, there are natural ups and downs, but that's just part of medical school...
I decided on medicine quite late, only in my final year of high school, after applications had already opened. I didn't have much confidence that I could get in anywhere, especially since I struggled a bit with chemistry in high school. That's why I initially considered a non-medical healthcare field. But in the end, my teachers and some doctors I knew encouraged me to believe in myself more, so I gave it a shot... And, well, it worked out! In the end, I'm very grateful that it did.
From a general perspective, I would say finding my study routine. Medical school is very different from high school, and everyone needs to figure out what works best for them. Also, I will resist the urge to compare myself to others because that can undermine my confidence. It always seems like everyone else is handling things much better than you are. If I had to name a specific subject, back in the fall, I would have said pathophysiology. But now that I've made it through pharmacology, I have to admit, it was even tougher.
I love spending time in nature, so for me, a huge advantage is how accessible it is. Whether it's the parks, orchards, and forests within the city or the nearby Beskydy and Jeseníky mountains, nature is always within reach. The park around the faculty is great, too, it's nice to take a walk between classes or just look out the window at the treetops instead of concrete and streets. Besides that, Ostrava has a rich and diverse cultural scene, whether it's theater, music, or even slam poetry (which is regularly held at Dock). If you know where to look, a lot is going on here, and I appreciate that. Unfortunately, I don't always have as much time to enjoy it as I'd like.
I mainly know the University Hospital from my studies, and I have to say I'm satisfied. The vast majority of doctors, associate professors, and professors we interact with are supportive. I appreciate that they make even the theoretical parts of our education as practical as possible. One of the biggest advantages of our faculty is that we usually visit patients in pairs or small groups of three, which means we get to practice and learn a lot more than if we were in a large group of ten or more. However, I haven't done my summer internship at the University Hospital yet. Instead, I completed them at the Municipal Hospital of Ostrava, and I wouldn't change a thing. I got hands-on experience with a wide range of procedures, including assisting in a laparoscopic surgery after my third year.
I had to make time for them, to be honest. In high school, I was involved in all sorts of activities, but when I started medical school, I didn't want to take any risks, so I focused entirely on studying. After two years, though, I started to feel like I was losing my mind a little. That's when I found a place in Ostrava where I could practice aerial silks, and now, once a week, I get to be an acrobat. Besides that, I'm also involved in a faculty project called University Student for a Trial. It's an amazing initiative where my colleagues and I give high school seniors from around Ostrava a taste of what studying medicine is really like.
That's right! I visit high schools and attend various education fairs to talk to students about what it's like to study at the University of Ostrava. But I also emphasize that university life isn't just about academics; it's about so much more. As an ambassador, I also help organize different university events for the public and prospective students. It's a unique experience, and I'm grateful that the university has allowed me to gain new skills and experiences for life.
Yes, I do! I'd love to go to Kenya or the Philippines with the OU Aid program after my fifth year. Originally, I wanted to apply this year, but honestly, I missed the deadline. (laughs)
Follow your heart. But even if you don't get into your dream medical school, don't be discouraged. No matter where you end up studying, you are the most important factor in your success. So don't hesitate, go for it and take every opportunity that comes your way. In the end, what kind of doctor you become is entirely up to you. The journey won't be easy, but it will be worth it.
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Updated: 09. 04. 2025
