30 Years in Teaching, Assoc. Prof. PhD Habil. Denisa Abrudan, West University of Timisoara, Romania: Curiosity and Kindness, our Compass to Success

Creating a great place to work was the focus of an open lecture held with students of the European University of Tirana by Prof. Assoc. PhD Habil. Denisa Abrudan.

Invited by the rector of EUT, Prof. PhD. Drita Kruja, the expert in Human Resources Management and Leadership held an interactive and comprehensive lecture where she advised and inspired young people through information and practical cases.

With 30 years of teaching experience, part of the Department of Management and Entrepreneurship at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at the West University of Timisoara, Romania, professor Abrudan’s main areas of interest are Talent Management, Leadership, HRM, Entrepreneurship and Innovative Education. She is the coordinator of a large number of international projects, collaborating with various universities and world-renowned organizations.

In this interview, Ms. Abrudan reveals more about her visit to Albania, her interaction with students and colleagues, her professional journey, her ideas and motivation to always be close to the people and to strongly contribute to a better society.

This is your first time in Albania. What impressed you about what you found and saw in our country, considering that both Romania and Albania were once communist countries?

What impressed me the most was the spirit of the people – the warmth, ambition to forge ahead with courage, vision and resilience. Despite sharing a history of hardship under communism with Romania, Albania shows a dynamic energy, especially among its youth, who are eager to shape the country’s future. Albania is not merely recovering from its past; it is actively shaping its future with courage and creativity. There is a palpable sense of ambition, a hunger for progress, and a willingness to embrace change while honoring the traditions that define its identity. It is a country where history stands side by side with hope—a place where every interaction with people here feels genuine. Visiting Albania is more than just a journey—it is an experience that inspires me and deeply moves me. I feel like I’m home.

The rector of the European University of Tirana, Prof. Drita Kruja, said that you have been acquainted with EUT and its students for six years, being a good friend of this university. What brought you here in the spring of 2025?

It was a natural continuation of a relationship built on mutual respect and shared values. Delivering a lecture about ‘Creating a Great Place to Work. People-Ideas-Performance’ at EUT was like an inspiration for me. The curiosity of the students, their drive to learn, and the university’s commitment to progress all create an environment where fresh ideas can truly thrive.
Spring 2025 was the perfect moment to strengthen this collaboration, offering new perspectives on education and professional growth. I hope my lecture insights sparked engaging discussions and meaningful connections—helping students navigate the evolving landscape of their careers with confidence and authenticity.

Your lecture was dynamic, interactive, motivating, with elements more than necessary for everyone to find success in their careers.
How did you feel in the EUT auditorium and how was this live communication with the students?

Imagine a new kind of education — one shaped by all of us. One that is innovative, open, direct, and above all, enjoyable -this is my mainstream in education.
Working with your students, I felt inspired.
The EUT auditorium was step by step filled with curiosity and engagement. You could sense that the students were not just passively listening but actively participating in the learning experience. I saw their reactions which were like a reward for me. This kind of interaction is what makes a live lecture so powerful. It creates a shared space for growth, for challenge, and for real connection.

For 30 years, lecturer, scientific researcher, collaborator with universities and international organizations around the world. What motivates you to give endlessly and to be a role model?

The motivation comes from a deep belief in the transformative power of education. Every time I see a student succeed, innovate, or find their purpose I’m reminded why I chose this path. But beyond that, it’s also about giving back. My parents have been my greatest mentors, instilling in me the values of curiosity, resilience, and generosity. Their guidance shaped my journey, and I want to extend that same encouragement to others, fostering growth and confidence in those I teach and mentor. Curiosity fuels my passion, empathy keeps me connected to the people I support, and a deep sense of purpose drives me forward. Education is not just about imparting knowledge, it’s about inspiring minds, cultivating potential, and empowering others to create meaningful change in the world. Being a role model isn’t about perfection, it’s about being present, passionate, and committed. I hope I inspire my students to have the courage to achieve their dreams, challenge the status quo, and embrace lifelong learning. If this happens, I know my work has meaning.

You know a lot about young people, their mindset and their problems. Compared to your generation, what would you say is different about today’s Generation Z students? Are these characteristics and problems the same no matter where they live?

Generation Z is connected globally. They are digital natives, which gives them access to more information than ever before, but also more pressure.
Mental health, identity, and purpose are central issues they face – and these transcend borders. What differs is the context: in some countries, they have more support systems; in others, fewer opportunities. But everywhere I go, I see a generation that wants to make a difference and seeks authenticity.
Their search for authenticity sets them apart. This generation is not afraid to challenge outdated systems or redefine success on their personal terms. Their purpose for making a difference is inspiring, and we all are watching as they step into leadership roles, disrupt industries, and build a new organizational culture.

If you were to give a single piece of advice based on all the wealth of experiences, events, emotions, but also wisdom you have accumulated, what would it be?

Be curious and a good person.
Curiosity fuels lifelong learning. It pushes you to explore, question, and create.
Kindness connects you to others. It builds bridges, earns trust, and leaves a lasting imprint wherever you go.
In a world that can often feel fast, complex, and unforgiving, these two qualities — curiosity and kindness — are your compass.
With them, you can navigate uncertainty, inspire those around you, and build not just a career, but a life of purpose and impact.