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University of Osijek
In-Country Points of Learning
-Gained insight into Croatia’s higher education system and how social work is taught and practiced.
-Participated in meaningful conversations comparing social issues between the U.S. and Croatia, including mental health, poverty, and addiction.
-Experienced the value of cross-cultural dialogue and student connection in promoting mutual understanding.
Reflection Questions
1. What similarities and differences did you notice between the social work challenges in Croatia and the U.S.?
-Both countries face issues like mental health stigma and limited access to services, but Croatia seems to emphasize community-based care more, while the U.S. struggles with a fragmented system and insurance barriers.
2. How did your conversations with Croatian students shape or shift your perspective on global social work?
-It showed me that although our systems are different, the core values of empathy, advocacy, and human dignity are universal in social work.
3. Why is it important to engage in cross-cultural discussions when addressing complex social issues?
-Because hearing different perspectives challenges assumptions and reveals alternative approaches that we might not consider in our own cultural bubbles.
At the University of Osijek, we had the unique opportunity to learn about Croatia’s education system and dive deeper into the field of social work from a local perspective. In a collaborative discussion with students from both Indiana University and the University of Osijek, we compared real-world social issues facing Croatia and the United States—from mental health and addiction to community support systems. The conversation was so meaningful and engaging that several of us continued the dialogue afterward, forming genuine connections that extended beyond the classroom.
