I am Karla Antunović, a volleyball player and a student at the Zagreb School of Economics and Management. I first heard about ZSEM through acquaintances who had attended it and spoke highly of its flexibility in balancing studies with sports commitments. That is why ZSEM seemed like the best choice for me.
Studying while playing professional sports was not easy, but with the support of my classmates, I managed to complete all my academic obligations on time. Despite the demanding schedule of university, training, and matches, I fully enjoyed that period and experienced true student life.
This year, I transitioned to a fully remote study model due to my engagement in Germany. Initially, it was challenging because of my heavy volleyball schedule and two daily training sessions, but over time, I adapted. I am grateful to my professors, the administration, the dean, and everyone who made it possible for me to study through the Loomen platform. Exam arrangements are made via email, which makes it much easier for me to complete my courses.
The biggest advantage of remote studying is the ability to adjust my own pace and learning schedule. With limited free time, good organization is crucial to balancing all my commitments.
On the other hand, self-discipline is the greatest challenge. It takes a lot of motivation to sit down and study, especially after exhausting training sessions and travels when finding the energy can be difficult.
Professors at ZSEM have shown great understanding for student-athletes and have often accommodated my academic and sports obligations when they overlapped. Thanks to their flexibility and support, I successfully completed my fourth year of studies.
Over the years, many professors have inspired me and guided me in shaping my future career path. While I wouldn’t single out any particular professor, each one has contributed to my growth in some way.
My day starts with a morning coffee, followed by my first training session. After lunch and a short rest, I focus on my academic obligations and studying. The afternoon is reserved for my second training session, and in the evening, I usually unwind with a movie or a TV show.
There are days when I feel exhausted and struggle to find the motivation to study, but I do my best to keep those moments to a minimum. When traveling—almost every week—finding time for studying is even more challenging, but I make sure to catch up as soon as I return.
To young athletes considering university studies, I would highly recommend ZSEM, as I have personally experienced how much it helps in balancing academic and athletic commitments. Many of my teammates struggle to manage both, whereas ZSEM provides me with the flexibility I need.
I don’t stress too much about future plans—I live day by day and go wherever life takes me. Right now, it’s sports, tomorrow it might be the business world, and the day after, something completely different. I am open to new opportunities and the challenges that come my way.
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