In a globalizing world, at a time when knowledge and experience know no boundaries, the Azerbaijani state attaches special importance to young people studying abroad.
Our young people, who study at leading universities around the world within the framework of state programs, are now bringing the knowledge and skills they have acquired back to their homeland and successfully operating in various fields.
They contribute to the country's development as professional personnel and also act as a bridge between international experience and local realities.
AzEdu.az on this occasion presents a series of interviews about the journey, acquired experience, and future perspectives of our young people who have studied abroad within the framework of the state program, returned to our country, and are currently working here.
Our first interviewee is Nicat Qurbanov, who works as a civil servant at the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population (MLSPP).
He received his bachelor's degree abroad within the framework of a state program.
We present the interview:
Mr. Nicat, first, let's get to know you a little better. How did your educational and professional journey begin?
- I studied abroad starting from my bachelor's degree. I received my bachelor's degree in business administration and economics at Tor Vergata University in Rome, with an Italian state scholarship, in English. During my studies, I also fully learned Italian through courses organized by the university.
During my bachelor's studies, due to my high academic performance, I participated in an exchange program at the University of Zaragoza in Spain for one semester in my second year. At the same time, in the final year of my bachelor's degree, I had the opportunity to work as an accountant at KPMG, one of the "Big 4" companies located in Italy. This experience was very important for me in terms of seeing how theoretical knowledge is applied in practice.
Later, I continued my master's education in corporate finance at LUISS University in Rome. Here, I received both an Italian state scholarship and an Azerbaijani state scholarship, and at the same time, I was one of the four students to receive the GIIMED scholarship offered by the university.
In the first year of my master's degree, I worked as a financial planning and analytics specialist at Takeda, one of Japan's large pharmaceutical companies located in Rome. Due to my high results, in the next stage, I participated in a one-semester exchange program in quantitative finance at PSL-Paris Dauphine University in France.
I completed my education in October 2024. After completing the documentation, I returned to Azerbaijan towards the end of the year and have been working as a civil servant at the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population for approximately one year now.
- In your opinion, what skills, in addition to higher education, are important for being a successful specialist in the modern era, and how can these skills be developed during student years?
- I believe that a diploma alone is not enough. For this reason, during my studies, I tried to develop both my language skills and my technical abilities. In addition to English and Italian, as I had a certain level of German language knowledge, I volunteered as a German language teacher's assistant for two months during my bachelor's degree.
From a technical perspective, I learned programming languages like Python. I believe these skills are extremely important, especially in the field of finance and analytics.
- How did you decide to apply for the state program? What were the main motivations that guided you in this choice?
- The state program is truly a unique opportunity for young people. Because through this program, it is possible to study with a full scholarship at the most prestigious universities in the world. Usually, it is quite difficult to obtain a scholarship at these universities.
The interesting point is that when the state program was announced, I was already studying abroad. So, the main motivation for me was not financial. Rather, other advantages offered by the program attracted my attention. One of these is the opportunity for state scholarship holders to be admitted to civil service without an exam. This was a very serious and attractive advantage for me.
On the other hand, the state program creates a very strong “networking” environment. Various meetings and events are organized throughout the year, providing opportunities to establish connections with both previous program graduates and young people currently studying. This is extremely valuable for both experience exchange and future career prospects.
- What were the main reasons for your preference for finance in your specialization choice and for continuing your education specifically in Italy?
- During my bachelor's degree, I studied a wide range of subjects in business and economics. This allowed me to more precisely determine which field I was more interested in over time. Since my interest was more directed towards analytical and quantitative fields, I chose finance as my specialization.
The main reason I chose LUISS University is its high reputation both within Italy and in Europe. The university was founded by the renowned Italian politician Guido Carli, and its graduates currently hold high positions in both the public and private sectors in Italy. The university's inclusion in the state program list further facilitated this choice for me.
- Based on your observations, what are the main and significant differences between the education systems of the countries where you studied abroad and the Azerbaijani education system?
- One of the biggest differences is the issue of class attendance. In Azerbaijan, the concept of “absence” is very prominent. In Europe, however, this concept is almost non-existent. There, it is believed that if a student wants to come to class, they will; if not, they will bear the responsibility themselves.
Another significant difference concerns teacher-student relationships. Abroad, classes are conducted in a more interactive manner, and teachers are very open with students. They have specific “office hour”s, and students can easily meet with teachers, ask questions, and even receive career advice outside of class time. In Azerbaijan, however, these relationships tend to be somewhat more formal and distant.
The third main difference is the practical orientation of the teaching. Abroad, we analyzed the financial statements of real companies, conducted simulations, and worked on real business problems. This approach significantly facilitates adaptation to working life after graduation.
- What surprised you the most and seemed different during your studies abroad?
- The practical approach was what surprised me the most. Assignments were not based on abstract or theoretical levels, but on actual data from real companies. For example, we were required to analyze a company's financial statements for several years and provide future forecasts.
On the other hand, the teachers' constant openness to students, listening to them, and guiding them was very motivating. In my opinion, these two factors - practical teaching and close teacher-student relationships significantly enhance the quality of education.
- In your opinion, what skills did you acquire the most during your studies?
- I believe that the most essential skill I acquired during my studies abroad was communication. Over these years, I have been in direct communication with people from various nationalities in two different countries, both within exchange programs and during my main studies. Especially during my time in Italy, I had the opportunity to get closely acquainted with students from other countries.
Through these interactions, I got to know different cultures and gained information about their countries, worldviews, and lifestyles. At the same time, I had the opportunity to inform them about our own country, culture, history, and values. I believe that this mutual cultural exchange significantly developed my communication skills.
I don't want to delve too deeply into technical and academic skills, as these are a natural part of education: practical knowledge, projects, work experience in foreign countries, etc. However, another point I want to specifically emphasize is my complete mastery of the Italian language. I believe this is precisely what distinguishes me from many people with similar educational backgrounds.
Considering that economic and political relations between Azerbaijan and Italy are rapidly developing, and Italy is one of Azerbaijan's main oil export partners, this also demonstrates the importance of knowing this language. In this regard, I believe that my language skills will play a significant role in my future career.
Furthermore, I gained friendships from various countries, and these connections continue to this day. We visit each other's countries and stay in touch. I believe these are also among the most valuable gains from studying abroad.
- Outside the academic environment, what cultural and social experiences impressed you the most?
- Looking beyond education, culturally, I found Italians to be extremely sincere and hospitable people. Frankly, I think they resemble us a lot in these characteristics. Although not exactly the same, we have quite similar aspects in terms of mentality.
I particularly felt this sincerity more when I was just starting to learn Italian. When I tried to speak on the street, in shops, or in government institutions, even if my language wasn't perfect, people reacted very positively. “You speak very well” and “How did you learn this language?” significantly boosted my motivation. This is an approach that doesn't pressure people, but rather encourages them.
I observed a similar attitude in Spain. Spaniards are also very open, friendly, and willing to help people. Even if you don't know the language, they try to communicate with you, which greatly facilitates adaptation. I believe these characteristics differentiate those societies from ours in a certain sense.
Furthermore, during my time abroad, I participated in various events on behalf of our country, whether organized by the embassy or official and cultural events. At these events, I had the opportunity to meet local Italians, students, and official representatives, and I always tried to promote Azerbaijan, our culture, and our values. This was also a very valuable experience for me.
- Which approaches and experiences you observed in Italy and Spain are you currently trying to apply in Azerbaijan?
- This question can be answered in two directions. From a practical perspective, I am currently trying to apply the approaches I learned abroad, both at university and in the work environment, to my current workplace. This includes principles such as a responsible approach to work, planning, and cooperation with the team.
On the other hand, in terms of social and human relations, I try to bring the sincerity I observed there into my relationships here. I strive to communicate with people more openly, comfortably, and without complexes, not only within work but also outside of it. I believe this is also felt from the outside.
Furthermore, sharing my experience of studying abroad is very important to me. I provide information to young people about state programs, other scholarship and educational opportunities, share my own experiences, and try to explain which country has what advantages and what they should pay attention to. My goal is for others to benefit from this experience.
- How was the adaptation process after returning to your homeland? Did you encounter any difficulties?
- To be honest, I did not experience any serious difficulties with adaptation. Although I lived in Europe for a total of six years, mainly in Italy. The main reason for this is that during those years, I regularly returned to Azerbaijan for holidays and vacations. I never lost contact with my family and friends.
Moreover, by nature, I think I am more suited to being here. Therefore, returning was not difficult for me; on the contrary, it was quite comfortable.
- What preparations did you make when deciding to study abroad, and looking back, what would you do differently?
- First of all, I should note that when I first went abroad, I was only 19 years old, and I carried out almost all the research and application processes by myself. At that time, frankly, I didn't think very deeply about issues such as the living standards, job market, and social environment of the country I was going to.
Looking back now, I can say that these issues absolutely must be researched beforehand. Not only the university, but also factors such as the country's language, daily living expenses, opportunities for students, and future job prospects should be considered. Studying abroad is not just about a diploma; it is also a life experience. Therefore, the more consciously this decision is made, the more successful the outcome will be.
- How informed are young people usually about the opportunities of studying abroad? In your opinion, what aspects are overlooked?
- To be honest, I wasn't thinking about all these details. It was more about the idea of “getting accepted to university, winning a scholarship, studying abroad.” In fact, the vast majority of young people focus precisely on this part.
But the issue is not just about getting accepted or winning a scholarship. There's also the "unseen side of the iceberg." Living conditions, cultural differences, academic system, social life, psychological adaptation, etc. – these are often not researched and remain overlooked.
My main advice to young people is not to limit themselves to reading online. They should definitely connect with people who have already experienced that, studied or lived in that country, and listen to their real experiences. Because everything can look very good on paper, but reality is sometimes completely different.
- But everyone's experience is different, isn't it?
- Absolutely true. Even about the same country, the same university, or even the same faculty, one person might speak very positively, while another speaks negatively. This is very normal because there is a human factor involved. Some things are only understood after experiencing them.
Therefore, I would say that they should listen to different opinions, but when making the final decision, they should consider their own goals, characters, and expectations.
- So, what are the biggest challenges awaiting students going abroad?
- Difficulties are inevitable, and this is completely normal. I myself encountered certain problems in the beginning. Even though I was quite successful in high school and had good results.
This was related to both academic and daily life. Because there is a different education system, different approaches, and a different environment. One inevitably experiences difficulties. But the main thing is not to be afraid of these difficulties. They should fight, be patient, and work on themselves. Everything falls into place over time.
- How important is the issue of behavior and representation for young people studying abroad?
- It is very important. People sometimes forget this, but we represent not only ourselves but also Azerbaijan there.
When you communicate with a foreigner and say, “I am Azerbaijani,” if you exhibit negative behavior, the other party inevitably generalizes it. This is not right, but human psychology works that way.
Therefore, we must pay maximum attention to our behavior, lifestyle, and communication culture. This is important for both our personal image and the image of our country.
- How did you approach the language issue while studying abroad?
- I think this is a very critical issue. If the language of the country you are going to is not English, it is absolutely necessary to learn that language.
There is an Italian proverb: “Knowing one language opens one door in a corridor, but knowing two languages opens all the doors in that corridor." I think this saying explains everything very well.
Knowing that language definitely gives you an advantage, whether in daily life, job opportunities, or social circles. Even if you won't stay in that country in the future, that language is always an asset for you.
- Sometimes it is said that the main issue is not the diploma. Do you agree with this statement?
- I agree one hundred percent. The main issue is not the diploma, but how a person develops themselves.
There are two types of students at university: one studies simply to pass exams and get a diploma, while the other studies to learn something, understand it, and apply it in practice. I myself never studied just for the sake of grades. Of course, I tried to achieve high results, but my main goal was to fully understand what I was studying.
For every topic, I would think to myself: “Where is this used in practice?” and “What does this mean in real life?”. In other words, I wasn't content with just theoretical knowledge.
- How do you evaluate the outcome of studying just for the sake of a diploma?
- Frankly, it is more advisable not to study at all than to study just for the sake of a diploma. Because tomorrow, when you go for a job application, everything comes out in the interview.
When a person speaks, their level is immediately felt. As for technical questions, someone who studied just for the sake of a diploma will struggle there. Then they will say: “I have a diploma, but I can't find a job."
Especially in the current era, with information being so accessible, a diploma alone no longer plays a major role. What matters most is knowledge, skills, and way of thinking.
- You have lived and studied in different countries for 6 years since you were 19. Let's touch a little on the topic of cuisine. Has any country's cuisine been particularly interesting and memorable for you?
- Indeed, it's an interesting topic. Every country's cuisine is unique, just like our Azerbaijani cuisine. Being in different countries enriches a person not only academically but also culturally.
Some cuisines seem unfamiliar at first glance, while others become loved over time. But no matter where you are, people still miss their own cuisine, their own flavors. This is very natural.
Frankly, since Italy is the country where I lived the most, I would like to start the conversation from there. As you know, Italian cuisine is one of the most famous cuisines in Europe. I also understand the reason for this. Compared to other European countries, Italian cuisine is more developed and more widely recognized.
Overall, I didn't experience any serious difficulties with cuisine in Italy. Because Italian cuisine is primarily based on flour products: various types of pasta, pizzas, etc. In this regard, it is not very unfamiliar to us; flour products also occupy a fairly wide place in Azerbaijani cuisine.
There was just one difference: in our country, pasta is usually prepared in one way, simple, with meat. Many different variations are not commonly found at home. In Italy, however, pasta is a completely different world: it is prepared with fish, various types of meat, tuna, seafood, and various sauces.
Once, in an Italian language class, the topic was cuisine. I jokingly said, “Today you cook pasta with fish, tomorrow with meat. But in the end, you still eat pasta. These are not two different dishes.” Frankly, this idea was not very well received by the Italians; it was evident from their facial expressions.
Overall, in Italy, pasta is an everyday meal, even considered “cibo dei poveri,” meaning “food of the poor.” Its history dates back to periods of poverty. Therefore, I didn't find this topic strange, and it wasn't difficult to adapt.
- What about Spain? How was the cuisine there?
- In Spain, my overall impression was also positive. Several dishes, in particular, remained memorable for me. For example, tortilla - a simple dish made from potatoes and eggs, but very tasty.
There's also empanada, presented as a pastry dish. I had the tuna one, and I really liked it. Of course, patatas bravas, one of Spain's most famous snacks, should also be mentioned. In essence, it's fried potatoes as we know them, just prepared differently and served with various sauces. The taste, in fact, is magnificent.
Overall, Spanish cuisine was a quite positive and pleasant experience for me. It was both delicious and culturally interesting.
I cannot say the same about France. There, both the cuisine and the general impressions were somewhat different and not as positive for me.
In terms of cuisine, I mainly ate at the university cafeteria. Products like duck meat and pork were widely used there. It might be normal for many people, but I am a bit picky about food. I don't like pork at all, both for religious reasons and its taste and appearance.
There's a famous sandwich in France: they simply put butter inside a baguette and eat it with great pleasure. The taste isn't bad, but it's not exactly “legendary.” Croissants are also highly praised, but they didn't leave a special impression on me.
Overall, I think many things in Europe are very simple, and people attach great meaning to this simplicity. For example, when I first saw the Eiffel Tower, the surrounding environment seemed a bit strange to me. Muddy paths, simple parks, people just sit and look at the lights and enjoy it. I couldn't fully understand this feeling, but it was interesting to see how a different culture works.
No matter how many different countries I've been to, I can easily say one thing: none of them can compare to Azerbaijani cuisine.
Even if we talk about pizza, for me, Papa John’s pizza is tastier than the pizzas in Italy. Italians shouldn't hear this (laughs). But this is purely a matter of taste.
During student life, eating the same food frequently is normal. I didn't go there as a food expert; my main goal was education, and I believe I achieved that goal.
- Interestingly, were you alone during your studies abroad?
- In my first year, I stayed in a dormitory-type place and lived there with three Azerbaijani students. Frankly, this was a huge advantage.
Generally, it was when I was in France that I understood what it truly means to be alone. Because in Italy and Spain, I was never completely alone. There were always newly arrived Azerbaijani students like me by my side. Documentation, university registration, finding accommodation, adapting to the city - we did all these things together.
In France, however, I felt alone from the moment I landed at the airport. Even though I had already been living abroad for several years, I experienced that complete solitude for the first time there. This is truly difficult.
My advantage was that I had lived somewhat apart from my family before. My family was in Ganja, while I had studied in Baku in recent years. But still, being completely alone in another country is a completely different feeling.
- What was the most important conclusion you drew from this experience?
- I believe that studying abroad is not just about attending classes. It's about taking on all the responsibilities of life. Documents, accommodation, financial matters, daily life - everything is on you.
Therefore, living and studying abroad requires a very strong psychology. In my opinion, this is the first condition. If a person is not psychologically ready, embarking on this path can be very difficult.
