Ever since the elementary school I have been dreaming about medicine as the profession I would like to practise
Đurica Milićev – A Scholarship Holder, a student of the second year of the Faculty of Medicine at University of Novi SadYou study medicine; you are in the second year. What have your faculty experiences been so far, are you satisfied, have your expectations been fulfilled?
I have been thinking about this faculty for a very long time. Ever since the elementary school I have been dreaming about medicine as the profession I would like to practise. I can say that I am very happy with what this faculty offers me. Presently, we are studying general subjects, later the clinical ones will come, and I look forward to it, and I am eager to learn. I love medicine, I love studying it.
How did you find out about RHSP scholarship?
I heard about the scholarship while I was at the secondary school. The school psychologist told me that it was being awarded. I decided to apply. I completed the online application form, wrote the motivation letter and an essay about the problems in the Roma community and a few more things about out-of-class activities. It turned out I was awarded the scholarship and ever since I've been its holder.
What does it mean for you?
It is a big amount of money and that scholarship means literally everything. It is my main source of financing. Were it not for it, I simply could not continue the education. It helps me literally in every segment. Not only as concerns the faculty, but life in general, both here in Novi Sad and in my native Novi Bečej, and what is very important – I can even help my mother who does not work because she is a cardiac patient.
You have a mentor at the faculty. How important is it for you and how has it made your studying easier?
In the first year I got a mentor, Mrs Marija Mihalj who is a regular Professor at the Chair for Anatomy of the Faculty of Medicine of Novi Sad. She is a good person in the first place, but she is also a first-rate expert. She really helped me a lot because I would go to her every time to do the colloquiums, to be examined in anatomy which is the most difficult subject in the first year. She motivated me to exert my best. Thanks to that, I passed the exams in the first attempt. On the other hand, I would go to talk to her because, you know, sometimes you lose faith and you need someone who would listen to you, render support and motivate you to go on. She is a kind of psychological support to me.
Do you, perhaps, have an idea what you would like to specialize after completion of the basic studies?
Infectology, the branch of medicine about infectious diseases. I am very much attracted by it as I like microbiology. Right now, in the second year I have the subject of microbiology with immunology and I realized that it is something I would like to practise, something I would like to work at. It is not difficult to me and I feel good while I study it. It is not demanding. I'd like to apply one day for the Doctors without Frontiers, to work somewhere in Africa or in the rural areas of Asia where infectious diseases are frequent; otherwise, I'd like to volunteer for UNICEF.
How important, in your opinion, is the education of the Roma and how much does it contribute to prejudice-breaking about your ethnic group?
I think that education is one of the most important factors and much more attention should be devoted to it. Particularly as regards our community – to invest a lot in young people so that they continue their education, because it is not only the way out of desolation and poverty but also an exceptionally good way to break the prejudices. I am telling this out of my personal example. Simply, when you are educated, when you fight, people have more respect for you and take you as equal. You do not feel humiliated. Education offers greater possibilities to find a job. If all that would fit together, the complete Roma community would be accepted more easily in the society.
Do your younger compatriots take example from you as someone who is a good example?
I haven't heard that from them, but I heard the elders remarked and told their children: ''Try better; you see how Đurica can do everything. You can, as well.'' I noticed that those younger than me took self-initiative, they've made up their minds to educate themselves, and they’ve simply realized it is necessary. I don't know if I am an example, I hope they wish it of their own will.
Have you experienced any form of discrimination during your education?
Sincerely, I have, but it was when I was younger. By the boys of my age. Something like – he's a Gipsy, he's this, he's that... Now, as I am older, they dare not tell me some things in the face. Like, it is a taboo to say Gipsy, but they do say.
Does the word Gipsy insult you?
The literary translation of this word which is of Greek origin is 'unclean', so, it is an insult. Telling anyone that he is unclean is an insult. I cannot classify myself in the category of Gipsies, I am a Roma, and a Roma in the Roma language means a man.
Are you socially engaged?
I have neglected it lately due to my obligations at the faculty. But I am; I was an activist in the local Youth Office and also in the Roma associations in Novi Sad, such as the Vojvodina Roma Centre for Democracy and the Association of Roma Students. I am active as much as my obligations permit me. I am doing my best but I don’t want be limited to helping only the persons of Roma nationality. In the first place, I am rather oriented to a kind of youth work.
Mario Ramić – A Scholarship Holder, a student of the third year of pharmacy at the Faculty of Medicine in Niš
You study pharmacy in Niš. What have your experiences at the faculty been so far, are you satisfied?
Considering that I am in the third year and that I have met with vocational subjects only now for the first time, I can say that I am happy in regard of both theoretical and practical parts, as the first two years were just an introduction.
What does RHSP scholarship mean to you?
The scholarship has stimulated me but it was not crucial for my decision to enrol the faculty. I've been its holder this year for the first time. It matters to me a lot, as studying is expensive and this year I am not at the budget. Since my parents are unemployed, it means considerable help for them as well. I also have a younger brother Michel who is in the third year of the vocational medical school and an excellent pupil with 5 as an average mark.
You have a mentor at the faculty. How important is it to you and how much did it make your studies easier?
My mentor's support means a lot to me. My mentor Gordana Pešić, Professor of pharmacology, helps me a lot with the exams, gives me useful pieces of advice, and explains the things that are not quite clear to me, all of which makes my learning much easier.
Have you got any idea at all what you are going to do after the faculty?
I have not given a thought to it yet. It's too early. Anyway, I'd certainly like to stay here and work for a pharmaceutical company, be a travelling salesman or something like that.
How important, in your opinion, is the education of the Roma and how much does it contribute to prejudice-breaking about your ethnic group?
Education is crucial for cracking the prejudices that exist about the Roma community. Naturally, it is important for every individual at everyone's personal plan in order to be successful in life tomorrow. It is well known that the Roma rarely finish the elementary school, even more rarely the secondary school, let alone the faculty. I grew up out of the Roma surroundings but, of course, I had the Roma as friends; unfortunately, none of them continued education. It did not affect me, because I had my goal. I knew then and I know now what I want. I hope I will succeed in achieving it. Many of my peers used to tell me that I would form the family too late because of the faculty, that I would spend a lot of time with the book and that I would miss some important things in life. However, I disagree. On the contrary.
Have you experienced any form of discrimination during your education?
I have. It was at the elementary school, in the first and second grade. But it was settled fast. Later, I made a circle of friends where I was not discriminated. But it did not affect me in the negative way, because prejudices have always existed and always will. Not only towards the Roma, but in general. Sadly, but such is life.
Are you active in the Roma community and how much?
I am active as much as my time and obligations allow me. My activities most often involve talks and assistance to the younger, secondary school students. I advise them, help them with some school subjects. I tell them about the faculty, give them some instructions for the preparatory courses. As regards other members of the Roma community, perhaps I'll be able to make a difference one day when I am a Bachelor in Pharmacy.
You study pharmacy in Niš. What have your experiences at the faculty been so far, are you satisfied?
Considering that I am in the third year and that I have met with vocational subjects only now for the first time, I can say that I am happy in regard of both theoretical and practical parts, as the first two years were just an introduction.
What does RHSP scholarship mean to you?
The scholarship has stimulated me but it was not crucial for my decision to enrol the faculty. I've been its holder this year for the first time. It matters to me a lot, as studying is expensive and this year I am not at the budget. Since my parents are unemployed, it means considerable help for them as well. I also have a younger brother Michel who is in the third year of the vocational medical school and an excellent pupil with 5 as an average mark.
You have a mentor at the faculty. How important is it to you and how much did it make your studies easier?
My mentor's support means a lot to me. My mentor Gordana Pešić, Professor of pharmacology, helps me a lot with the exams, gives me useful pieces of advice, and explains the things that are not quite clear to me, all of which makes my learning much easier.
Have you got any idea at all what you are going to do after the faculty?
I have not given a thought to it yet. It's too early. Anyway, I'd certainly like to stay here and work for a pharmaceutical company, be a travelling salesman or something like that.
How important, in your opinion, is the education of the Roma and how much does it contribute to prejudice-breaking about your ethnic group?
Education is crucial for cracking the prejudices that exist about the Roma community. Naturally, it is important for every individual at everyone's personal plan in order to be successful in life tomorrow. It is well known that the Roma rarely finish the elementary school, even more rarely the secondary school, let alone the faculty. I grew up out of the Roma surroundings but, of course, I had the Roma as friends; unfortunately, none of them continued education. It did not affect me, because I had my goal. I knew then and I know now what I want. I hope I will succeed in achieving it. Many of my peers used to tell me that I would form the family too late because of the faculty, that I would spend a lot of time with the book and that I would miss some important things in life. However, I disagree. On the contrary.
Have you experienced any form of discrimination during your education?
I have. It was at the elementary school, in the first and second grade. But it was settled fast. Later, I made a circle of friends where I was not discriminated. But it did not affect me in the negative way, because prejudices have always existed and always will. Not only towards the Roma, but in general. Sadly, but such is life.
Are you active in the Roma community and how much?
I am active as much as my time and obligations allow me. My activities most often involve talks and assistance to the younger, secondary school students. I advise them, help them with some school subjects. I tell them about the faculty, give them some instructions for the preparatory courses. As regards other members of the Roma community, perhaps I'll be able to make a difference one day when I am a Bachelor in Pharmacy.
Mario Ramić – A Scholarship Holder, a student of the third year of pharmacy at the Faculty of Medicine in Niš
You study pharmacy in Niš. What have your experiences at the faculty been so far, are you satisfied?
Considering that I am in the third year and that I have met with vocational subjects only now for the first time, I can say that I am happy in regard of both theoretical and practical parts, as the first two years were just an introduction.
What does RHSP scholarship mean to you?
The scholarship has stimulated me but it was not crucial for my decision to enrol the faculty. I've been its holder this year for the first time. It matters to me a lot, as studying is expensive and this year I am not at the budget. Since my parents are unemployed, it means considerable help for them as well. I also have a younger brother Michel who is in the third year of the vocational medical school and an excellent pupil with 5 as an average mark.
You have a mentor at the faculty. How important is it to you and how much did it make your studies easier?
My mentor's support means a lot to me. My mentor Gordana Pešić, Professor of pharmacology, helps me a lot with the exams, gives me useful pieces of advice, and explains the things that are not quite clear to me, all of which makes my learning much easier.
Have you got any idea at all what you are going to do after the faculty?
I have not given a thought to it yet. It's too early. Anyway, I'd certainly like to stay here and work for a pharmaceutical company, be a travelling salesman or something like that.
How important, in your opinion, is the education of the Roma and how much does it contribute to prejudice-breaking about your ethnic group?
Education is crucial for cracking the prejudices that exist about the Roma community. Naturally, it is important for every individual at everyone's personal plan in order to be successful in life tomorrow. It is well known that the Roma rarely finish the elementary school, even more rarely the secondary school, let alone the faculty. I grew up out of the Roma surroundings but, of course, I had the Roma as friends; unfortunately, none of them continued education. It did not affect me, because I had my goal. I knew then and I know now what I want. I hope I will succeed in achieving it. Many of my peers used to tell me that I would form the family too late because of the faculty, that I would spend a lot of time with the book and that I would miss some important things in life. However, I disagree. On the contrary.
Have you experienced any form of discrimination during your education?
I have. It was at the elementary school, in the first and second grade. But it was settled fast. Later, I made a circle of friends where I was not discriminated. But it did not affect me in the negative way, because prejudices have always existed and always will. Not only towards the Roma, but in general. Sadly, but such is life.
Are you active in the Roma community and how much?
I am active as much as my time and obligations allow me. My activities most often involve talks and assistance to the younger, secondary school students. I advise them, help them with some school subjects. I tell them about the faculty, give them some instructions for the preparatory courses. As regards other members of the Roma community, perhaps I'll be able to make a difference one day when I am a Bachelor in Pharmacy.
Mario Ramić – A Scholarship Holder, a student of the third year of pharmacy at the Faculty of Medicine in Niš
You study pharmacy in Niš. What have your experiences at the faculty been so far, are you satisfied?
Considering that I am in the third year and that I have met with vocational subjects only now for the first time, I can say that I am happy in regard of both theoretical and practical parts, as the first two years were just an introduction.
What does RHSP scholarship mean to you?
The scholarship has stimulated me but it was not crucial for my decision to enrol the faculty. I've been its holder this year for the first time. It matters to me a lot, as studying is expensive and this year I am not at the budget. Since my parents are unemployed, it means considerable help for them as well. I also have a younger brother Michel who is in the third year of the vocational medical school and an excellent pupil with 5 as an average mark.
You have a mentor at the faculty. How important is it to you and how much did it make your studies easier?
My mentor's support means a lot to me. My mentor Gordana Pešić, Professor of pharmacology, helps me a lot with the exams, gives me useful pieces of advice, and explains the things that are not quite clear to me, all of which makes my learning much easier.
Have you got any idea at all what you are going to do after the faculty?
I have not given a thought to it yet. It's too early. Anyway, I'd certainly like to stay here and work for a pharmaceutical company, be a travelling salesman or something like that.
How important, in your opinion, is the education of the Roma and how much does it contribute to prejudice-breaking about your ethnic group?
Education is crucial for cracking the prejudices that exist about the Roma community. Naturally, it is important for every individual at everyone's personal plan in order to be successful in life tomorrow. It is well known that the Roma rarely finish the elementary school, even more rarely the secondary school, let alone the faculty. I grew up out of the Roma surroundings but, of course, I had the Roma as friends; unfortunately, none of them continued education. It did not affect me, because I had my goal. I knew then and I know now what I want. I hope I will succeed in achieving it. Many of my peers used to tell me that I would form the family too late because of the faculty, that I would spend a lot of time with the book and that I would miss some important things in life. However, I disagree. On the contrary.
Have you experienced any form of discrimination during your education?
I have. It was at the elementary school, in the first and second grade. But it was settled fast. Later, I made a circle of friends where I was not discriminated. But it did not affect me in the negative way, because prejudices have always existed and always will. Not only towards the Roma, but in general. Sadly, but such is life.
Are you active in the Roma community and how much?
I am active as much as my time and obligations allow me. My activities most often involve talks and assistance to the younger, secondary school students. I advise them, help them with some school subjects. I tell them about the faculty, give them some instructions for the preparatory courses. As regards other members of the Roma community, perhaps I'll be able to make a difference one day when I am a Bachelor in Pharmacy.
You study pharmacy in Niš. What have your experiences at the faculty been so far, are you satisfied?
Considering that I am in the third year and that I have met with vocational subjects only now for the first time, I can say that I am happy in regard of both theoretical and practical parts, as the first two years were just an introduction.
What does RHSP scholarship mean to you?
The scholarship has stimulated me but it was not crucial for my decision to enrol the faculty. I've been its holder this year for the first time. It matters to me a lot, as studying is expensive and this year I am not at the budget. Since my parents are unemployed, it means considerable help for them as well. I also have a younger brother Michel who is in the third year of the vocational medical school and an excellent pupil with 5 as an average mark.
You have a mentor at the faculty. How important is it to you and how much did it make your studies easier?
My mentor's support means a lot to me. My mentor Gordana Pešić, Professor of pharmacology, helps me a lot with the exams, gives me useful pieces of advice, and explains the things that are not quite clear to me, all of which makes my learning much easier.
Have you got any idea at all what you are going to do after the faculty?
I have not given a thought to it yet. It's too early. Anyway, I'd certainly like to stay here and work for a pharmaceutical company, be a travelling salesman or something like that.
How important, in your opinion, is the education of the Roma and how much does it contribute to prejudice-breaking about your ethnic group?
Education is crucial for cracking the prejudices that exist about the Roma community. Naturally, it is important for every individual at everyone's personal plan in order to be successful in life tomorrow. It is well known that the Roma rarely finish the elementary school, even more rarely the secondary school, let alone the faculty. I grew up out of the Roma surroundings but, of course, I had the Roma as friends; unfortunately, none of them continued education. It did not affect me, because I had my goal. I knew then and I know now what I want. I hope I will succeed in achieving it. Many of my peers used to tell me that I would form the family too late because of the faculty, that I would spend a lot of time with the book and that I would miss some important things in life. However, I disagree. On the contrary.
Have you experienced any form of discrimination during your education?
I have. It was at the elementary school, in the first and second grade. But it was settled fast. Later, I made a circle of friends where I was not discriminated. But it did not affect me in the negative way, because prejudices have always existed and always will. Not only towards the Roma, but in general. Sadly, but such is life.
Are you active in the Roma community and how much?
I am active as much as my time and obligations allow me. My activities most often involve talks and assistance to the younger, secondary school students. I advise them, help them with some school subjects. I tell them about the faculty, give them some instructions for the preparatory courses. As regards other members of the Roma community, perhaps I'll be able to make a difference one day when I am a Bachelor in Pharmacy.
Mario Ramić – A Scholarship Holder, a student of the third year of pharmacy at the Faculty of Medicine in Niš
You study pharmacy in Niš. What have your experiences at the faculty been so far, are you satisfied?
Considering that I am in the third year and that I have met with vocational subjects only now for the first time, I can say that I am happy in regard of both theoretical and practical parts, as the first two years were just an introduction.
What does RHSP scholarship mean to you?
The scholarship has stimulated me but it was not crucial for my decision to enrol the faculty. I've been its holder this year for the first time. It matters to me a lot, as studying is expensive and this year I am not at the budget. Since my parents are unemployed, it means considerable help for them as well. I also have a younger brother Michel who is in the third year of the vocational medical school and an excellent pupil with 5 as an average mark.
You have a mentor at the faculty. How important is it to you and how much did it make your studies easier?
My mentor's support means a lot to me. My mentor Gordana Pešić, Professor of pharmacology, helps me a lot with the exams, gives me useful pieces of advice, and explains the things that are not quite clear to me, all of which makes my learning much easier.
Have you got any idea at all what you are going to do after the faculty?
I have not given a thought to it yet. It's too early. Anyway, I'd certainly like to stay here and work for a pharmaceutical company, be a travelling salesman or something like that.
How important, in your opinion, is the education of the Roma and how much does it contribute to prejudice-breaking about your ethnic group?
Education is crucial for cracking the prejudices that exist about the Roma community. Naturally, it is important for every individual at everyone's personal plan in order to be successful in life tomorrow. It is well known that the Roma rarely finish the elementary school, even more rarely the secondary school, let alone the faculty. I grew up out of the Roma surroundings but, of course, I had the Roma as friends; unfortunately, none of them continued education. It did not affect me, because I had my goal. I knew then and I know now what I want. I hope I will succeed in achieving it. Many of my peers used to tell me that I would form the family too late because of the faculty, that I would spend a lot of time with the book and that I would miss some important things in life. However, I disagree. On the contrary.
Have you experienced any form of discrimination during your education?
I have. It was at the elementary school, in the first and second grade. But it was settled fast. Later, I made a circle of friends where I was not discriminated. But it did not affect me in the negative way, because prejudices have always existed and always will. Not only towards the Roma, but in general. Sadly, but such is life.
Are you active in the Roma community and how much?
I am active as much as my time and obligations allow me. My activities most often involve talks and assistance to the younger, secondary school students. I advise them, help them with some school subjects. I tell them about the faculty, give them some instructions for the preparatory courses. As regards other members of the Roma community, perhaps I'll be able to make a difference one day when I am a Bachelor in Pharmacy.
