From April 13 to 24, I completed a short-term scientific internship at Near East University in Nicosia, Cyprus, carried out at the Department of Microbiology of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine as part of the PROM Program – Short-Term Academic Exchange. The organization of the internship was possible thanks to the support of the Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Prof. Dr. Isfendiyar Darbaz. My internship supervisor was Asst. Prof. Dr. Halit Şükür.

On the left- Prof. Dr. Isfendiyara Darbaz, on the right-  Asst. Prof. Dr. Halit Şükür

Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus and at the same time the only currently divided capital city in the world. The city is separated by the so-called Green Line, which divides the Greek and Turkish parts. As a result, Nicosia is a unique meeting place of two cultures, traditions, and histories. I stayed in the Turkish part of the city, while a twenty-minute walk allowed me to cross into the Greek part.

Near East University is one of the largest and most recognizable universities in Northern Cyprus. The Near East University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine has modern clinical and laboratory facilities that enable scientific research and practical training for students. The faculty conducts educational and research activities in many areas of veterinary medicine, cooperating with international scientific centers.

During my stay, I participated in laboratory work and scientific activities related to microbiological diagnostics and bacterial identification. The identification of microorganisms was performed using the automated VITEK system, which enabled rapid and accurate analysis of the examined strains. During the internship, antimicrobial susceptibility testing was also carried out using the disk diffusion method with antibiotic disks. I took part in the analysis and interpretation of the obtained results, as well as in discussions regarding their significance in the context of public health and the One Health concept.

During the mobility, I presented information regarding the scientific research I am conducting, including the results of microbiological examinations of oral swabs collected from small mammal dental patients. In addition, I delivered a presentation about the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, its scientific activities, and educational programs.

The mobility enabled me to develop practical laboratory skills, gain experience working in an international academic environment, and improve my communication skills in English. Moreover, during my free time, I had the opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditions, try traditional cuisine, and visit Kyrenia, Nicosia, Iskele, Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Larnaca.

Participation in the internship allowed me to gain valuable experience that will be utilized in my future scientific work and during the preparation of my doctoral dissertation.