Yale student Iulia Teleucă on studying in the US, music and missing family
During the holidays, many Moldovans living abroad prioritize their journey home. One of those returning is Iulia Teleucă, a second-year chemistry student at Yale University in the United States. She expresses that her longing for family and the excitement of returning home outweigh any academic opportunities. Iulia shares her experiences studying abroad, her passion for music, and her hopes to someday connect her future plans with the Republic of Moldova.
Iulia Teleucă studies at one of the most prestigious universities in the United States and admits that adapting to American academic life was challenging at first. “In general, student life is very interesting for me. Even though in my first year, I felt a bit like an impostor,” she says, explaining that the differences in opportunities compared to her previous educational system posed challenges. However, with the transition to her second year, things improved: “Now, being in my second year, I understand all the mistakes I made, and I feel much better.”
In addition to her chemistry studies, Iulia is actively involved in the artistic life on campus. She participates in music and theater clubs and takes part in performances organized by the university. “Most people who study science are also in theater or music clubs”, she notes. This year, she released a song intended for the national Eurovision pre-selection but couldn’t make it to the stage due to her exam schedule. “I bought tickets to the final, but then I received an email saying that the auditions would be on December 16, and I still had my last exam,” she explains.
Looking ahead to next year, Iulia is considering trying again, possibly with a song made in the USA in collaboration with her university colleagues. She admits that her first year of studying abroad was marked by homesickness. “Last winter was particularly hard for me; I felt homesick,” Iulia recalls, adding that returning home for the holidays holds special meaning for her.
While music remains a significant passion, Iulia has chosen to focus on chemistry for her future career. “I always said I wanted to be in the laboratory in the morning and on stage in the evening,” she states, pointing out that her choice was also influenced by financial considerations. In the future, she hopes to work in the pharmaceutical field and does not rule out returning to the Republic of Moldova: “I want to work in pharmaceuticals, but I hope to return to the Republic of Moldova.”
Iulia describes student life on her American campus as intense and well-organized, with a supportive community. However, she has faced challenges in social integration. “It is very difficult to be friends with Americans. Because of this, the international community is much more united,” she explains. At Yale, there are only two Moldovans, and she finds support mainly from international friends and family back home. “I can always call my mother, and she always answers,” Iulia confesses.
For Iulia, returning home means not only reuniting with loved ones but also enjoying simple pleasures. “The most important thing for me is to eat well,” she shares, noting that she misses traditional Moldovan dishes, especially “meat pancakes.”
To young people aspiring to study in the U.S., Iulia has a clear message: “The entire application process in the U.S. is like a lottery. You never know who will be accepted and who won’t.” However, she encourages those with diverse interests to take the leap. Finally, her thoughts turn to her family: “I want to thank my parents for all the opportunities they have given me. I wish you happy holidays and hope you spend plenty of time with your family!”
The full interview broadcast on the “Zi de Zi” show on Radio Moldova can be heard below.
Author: Natalia Mogîldea
