Interview with Ana-Maria Cocu, Erasmus student

The Faculty of Law receives every semester a number of foreign students within the framework of Erasmus programme. We recently interviewed one of the students staying at our Faculty for the spring semester.

1. On behalf of the Faculty of Law, we are very happy to have you in Cluj-Napoca. Would you care to briefly introduce yourself?

Good morning. My name is Ana Maria Cocu; I am 22 years old and currently a third-year student at the Faculty of Law within the University of Trento, Italy. I am pleased to be spending this academic period here in Cluj-Napoca as part of the Erasmus+ programme.

2. How did you come to choose Babeș-Bolyai University for your Erasmus experience?

I chose Babeș-Bolyai University (UBB) primarily to improve my proficiency in the Romanian language and to gain a deeper understanding of the local culture. UBB is the sole Romanian partner institution for the University of Trento and its prestigious reputation made it the ideal choice for my exchange.

3. What classes do you attend during your time in Cluj-Napoca?

I’m enrolled in a diverse range of subjects, including Public International Law, European Institutional Law, International Commercial Law, European Tax Law, and European and Comparative Property Law.

4. Could you describe your overall experience at the Faculty of Law, in the framework of the Erasmus Programme?

My experience has been excellent from the outset. The administrative transition was remarkably smooth: the secretariat provided the necessary course lists and answered my questions very promptly. Compared to the experiences of other Erasmus students I have spoken with, the efficiency and organization of this faculty have been impressive.

5. Did you get to learn a little bit of Romanian during your time in Cluj?

Prior to my arrival, I possessed a foundational knowledge of the language. However, immersing myself in the daily life of Cluj has significantly improved my fluency and confidence in speaking Romanian.

6. How would you present your interaction with colleagues and professors at the Faculty of Law?

As my courses cover different years of study, building a consistent social circle with colleagues can be challenging, yet I have successfully made several friends within the Master’s program. Regarding the faculty, the professors have been incredibly welcoming. They have shown great consideration for my academic background at my home university and have been very supportive of my progress as an international student.

7. Could you compare the Faculty of Law in Cluj and your home law school in terms of educational experience?

Both institutions offer a wide variety of English-taught courses. However, I particularly appreciate the smaller class sizes here in Cluj, which facilitate more direct interaction between students and professors. At the University of Trento lectures in Italian tend to be much larger and less personal, though our English-taught courses share a similar intimate structure. Additionally, my time at UBB has allowed me to write academic papers and essays for the first time, a valuable skill that is not typically emphasized during the first three years of my five-year degree in Italy.

8. Is there anything in Cluj or in Romania, if you visited other cities, that you particularly liked?

I have been deeply impressed by the natural landscapes surrounding Cluj, such as Cheile Turzii, Lake Tarnița, and the Turda Salt Mine. Beyond the region, I visited Alba Iulia, Brașov, Oradea, and Sighișoara. Throughout my travels, I have found the Romanian people to be very kind and hospitable.

9. Can you point out one course or one particular subject that you enjoyed during your time at the Faculty of Law?

I particularly enjoyed International Commercial Law, taught by Professor Alina Oprea. The subject matter is fascinating, and Professor Oprea’s teaching style is very engaging; she is always accessible and willing to provide detailed explanations for any questions we have.

10. If you were offered a job, would you be willing to settle in Cluj or in Romania and to pursue a legal career here?

Cluj is a vibrant and beautiful city, and I truly enjoy living here. However, when I look toward my future career, I feel a strong connection to my home region in Northern Italy. Coming from a small village and then adapting to a large city is a significant transition for me, so I currently envision my long-term professional life back in Italy.

Thank you very much, Ana, enjoy the rest of your time in Cluj!