International Student Spotlight: Viktoriya's Journey at CADA
Viktoriya Yordanova’s JOURNEY at CADA
Meet Viktoriya Yordanova, a second-semester student at the 3D Digital Artist education. Originally from Bulgaria, Viktoriya came to Denmark in pursuit of better opportunities in the 3D and entertainment industry, and she’s never looked back. Here’s her journey so far at CADA.
Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from?
I’m Viktoriya Yordanova, and I’m from Bulgaria. I first discovered CADA when I asked my boyfriend, who lives here, if he could help me find an education that matched my interests. He found CADA, and it immediately caught my attention.
Why did you choose CADA?
For many years, I’ve wanted to gain more knowledge in the 3D field and break into the entertainment industry. My previous education didn’t give me the tools I needed, and I felt like I wasn’t growing. After attending the CADA open house, I was absolutely sure I wanted to enroll, and I haven’t regretted that decision once since I started.
What is it like to live in Copenhagen?
I feel very welcomed here, even though I’m a foreigner. That warmth has made settling in much easier. Day-to-day life here isn’t all that different from Bulgaria. But when it comes to education, it’s a completely different story.
I studied for a total of 16 years in school and university back in Bulgaria, and never once did a teacher show the same level of care for personal development as I’ve experienced at CADA. The teachers here are approachable and genuinely friendly. I can almost call them friends.
In Bulgaria, that dynamic is very different, teachers are often seen as untouchable, with big egos. Asking questions could sometimes make you feel like an idiot. That said, not all teachers were like that. Huge shoutout to two of the greatest teachers I had in high school, Zahari Vuchev and Braislav Ivanov, who truly defined what it means to be an educator.
How do you finance your education?
I rely on SU and also work part-time to help cover costs. All EU citizens studying in Denmark are entitled to receive 1,300 EUR per month in student grants from the Danish State.
How has the social aspect been for you in relation to moving to another country?
It was scary and stressful at first. Even though I had emotional support, leaving all my friends and family behind in Bulgaria was incredibly hard. But over time, things started to get better.
What is the funniest, strangest, or most surprising thing about the Danes?
The strong drinking culture really surprised me. Mostly because I thought no one could beat us Bulgarians in that department!
But what I find truly amazing is how calm and tranquil Danish people are. There’s something very inspiring about it. They’ve taught me to slow down, be more present, and enjoy the moment rather than rushing through life.
Read more about CADA's 3D Digital Artist education and what it takes to become a student.