Student at Moldova's Stefan cel Mare Academy: teachers here are people of exceptional value

Year after year, the Stefan cel Mare Academy educates specialists for administrative authorities and institutions subordinate to the Interior Ministry (MAI), as well as other law-enforcement bodies. Among the young people studying at the institution, there is Andreea Cotorobai, a third-year student at the Faculty of Law, Administration, Public Order, and Security Studies, enrolled on a contract basis.

The young woman was born in Chisinau and is an ambitious person with a clear vision of what she wants to achieve in future. She describes herself as emotional and empathetic, attentive to the needs of people around her and dedicated to everything she does.

The Path to the Stefan cel Mare Academy

The young woman explains that she chose to study at the Academy because it stands out from the typical universities.

“It is not just a place of learning, but a space where you become a professional and, more importantly, a person. I was supported by family and friends to follow my intuition, and this encouragement helped me choose with my heart. The Academy convinced me with its seriousness and the real development opportunities it offers. Also, choosing this faculty was not accidental, but the result of an inner impulse. I have always been drawn to the idea of a profession that combines rigor with empathy, law with humanity. From childhood, I was inspired by the desire to protect, to help, to make a difference where needed. The Faculty of Law was for me the natural path that gives meaning to these ideals and turns them into concrete actions guided by law, equity, and integrity,” Andreea Cotorobai said.

She told MOLDPRES that her years of study had been a true journey marked by transformations, and in this path, she has become “more disciplined, more attentive to details and aware of the impact of every decision.”

“I discovered myself in ways I hadn't anticipated. I learned to be tolerant, to listen actively and to communicate effectively, even in tense situations. Beyond theoretical knowledge, I have gained a solid set of values and a clear vision of the responsibility that the profession entails. During the years of study, the biggest challenge was adapting to the intensive pace of academic life. At first, this organized and unusual environment seemed overwhelming. However, I soon understood that, beyond discipline, there is a structure that supports growth. Today, I see those moments as essential steps in my training process,” Andreea Cotorobai said.

The young woman notes that the educational process at the Academy is “rigorous, well-structured, and anchored in the realities of the legal and public order fields.”

“The emphasis is placed not just on theory, but also on developing critical thinking and the practical application of knowledge. Our teachers constantly encourage us to deeply understand the legal context, to ask questions and to analyze situations objectively. Simulations, case studies and interactive activities effectively prepare us for the real challenges of the profession,” the student mentions.

The Academy's Professors Are People of Exceptional Value

She said that the current study conditions at the Academy were excellent and “reflect the real involvement of the leadership in supporting students.”

“We have access to modern spaces, appropriate technological resources, and a conducive learning and development environment. Everything is meant to provide us with a balanced environment, where we can perform and evolve constantly, both academically and personally. The teachers here are extraordinary people with vast experience and genuine dedication to what they do; they have inspired us, challenged us and supported us throughout our training. They have been not only teachers, but also mentors and models of integrity. Their devotion and passion have left a deep imprint on our journey, an influence that will guide us even after we step beyond the academy gates,” the young woman stressed.

The Academy: A Place Where True Friendships Are Created

Besides being an institution where professionals are trained, the Academy also forges true friendships among students.

“The friendships created at the Academy are some of the most authentic and valuable relationships I have managed to establish. I have had colleagues who have been unconditionally by my side, people who have supported me, encouraged me, and inspired me to keep going. These years were defined not just by courses and exams, but also by solidarity, trust and smiles. These are bonds that will surely last a lifetime,” Andreea Cotorobai noted.

Still, the most valuable lesson from the Academy was “to not give up, no matter the obstacles.”

“I have learned that every mistake can become a learning opportunity and that self-confidence is essential. The Academy has shown me that perseverance, the courage to move forward and taking responsibility are the keys to personal and professional development. To have the courage to try, even with the risk of making mistakes, is a lesson I carry with me,” the young woman added.

After her years of study, Andreea Cotorobai aims to work in a position where she can apply the law with integrity.

“I envision a career path that combines legal analysis with concrete intervention in supporting the community. I dream of a position where I can apply the law with integrity, but also with empathy, thus contributing to maintaining a balance between law and justice. I want to be where responsible actions are needed, in a place where I can make a real difference,” emphasized the student.

The Stefan cel Mare Academy of the Interior Ministry was founded 34 years ago. It is institutionally and scientifically accredited, aligned with the educational standards of the European Union, subordinated to MAI, and guided in its activities by the directives of the Ministry of Education and Research. The Academy educates specialists for administrative authorities and institutions under the MAI and other law-enforcement bodies of Moldova.