One mobility, so much more than an experience | Anida Ibričić, PhD Candidate

Anida Ibričić, PhD Candidate
Home institution: Faculty of Philosophy, University of Sarajevo
Mobility: Philipps University of Marburg, Germany

One mobility, so much more than an experience

Sometimes, a single decision – a click on an application – can open doors you did not even know existed.

For this PhD candidate, going on mobility within the EUPeace Alliance was not just an academic opportunity. It was a step towards a deeper understanding of her own research, but also of herself as a researcher. Driven by the desire to improve her doctoral dissertation, explore examples of good practice, and find inspiration beyond the familiar, she embarked on her journey to Philipps University of Marburg.

What she found there exceeded all expectations.

In just a few weeks, between the quiet of libraries and the lively conversations with colleagues, she began to piece together her research in ways that had not been possible before. Access to extensive literature, digital databases, and academic resources gave her the space to fully dedicate herself to the theoretical part of her dissertation. Yet, what left the deepest impression were not just the books.

It was the people.

Conversations with her supervisor, encounters with researchers, and spontaneous discussions with students – each of these expanded the boundaries of her thinking. Ideas evolved, perspectives broadened, and her research gained new depth. In those moments, it became clear that science is not only an individual process, but a space of encounter, exchange, and shared growth.

“The most important moments?” she says without hesitation. “Meetings with my supervisor. That’s where everything came together.”

But mobility did not shape only her research.

Living and working in a different academic environment opened her eyes to a broader perspective. Comparisons emerged naturally – between systems, approaches, and opportunities. And through these differences, she gained a clearer understanding of where Bosnia and Herzegovina stands, but also where it can and should go. From small, everyday processes to larger systemic changes, ideas began to take a more concrete form.

At the same time, what started as a short-term stay grew into a lasting network of connections. The contacts established during mobility continued even after her return – through messages, online meetings, and new ideas. The doors remained open.

And perhaps most importantly – she returned changed.

More motivated. More confident. More ready to embrace every new opportunity.

When asked what she brought back with her, she does not mention the city, the library, or the university. She says:

“Clarity. An understanding of where we need to go – and how.”

And to those still wondering whether to take the same step, her message is simple:

Apply. Step outside the familiar. Learn, meet people, build connections.
Because sometimes, it is precisely those small steps that change everything.