Nathan Radev
Nowadays, many students seek higher education abroad or are being hesitant to follow their true interests. Yet, Nathan Radev has taken a different path. Choosing to return to Bulgaria, he begins his first year at the American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) — a decision, showcasing his desire to explore and determination to forge his own way.
Born to an American mother and a Bulgarian father, Nathan’s early years unfolded in Bulgaria before he was raised in the United States. He grew up in a bustling family setting with several siblings, fostering strong bonds and resilience. Significantly, his father’s role in business has been an example, shaping Nathan’s perspectives on ambition and success.
“My dad’s advice to first manage personal matters, then family responsibilities, and eventually business and social affairs has always been a cornerstone of my approach,” Nathan shares, drawing directly from his father’s strategic guidance.
As of now, Nathan majors in Business Administration, actively engaging in the Investment Management Club and Debates Club. Prior to that, he took several gap years in the U.S. to explore various career paths, including mechanics, real estate, and programming.
“You need to find what you want to learn, develop it and be serious about it,” he further continues, emphasizing the importance of persistent effort and determination. “Here, I try to be more forward,” Nathan says, contrasting his more proactive approach of acquiring and applying knowledge in Bulgaria with his earlier experiences in the States.
Nathan also loves to tackle challenges, including his academic endeavors in mathematics. “I might fail the course, but I love it since it makes me think in ways I have not even thought before,” Nathan explains.
For him, AUBG emerged as an academic haven, providing the advantage of both U.S. and EU accredited diplomas in an English-speaking setting. “It teaches you how to handle your own priorities and prepares you for what comes next, by giving you the opportunity to attempt and fail,” he says, echoing the sentiments of his father’s advice.
His drive doesn’t stop at academics. Nathan is equally passionate about exploring both his personal potential and the wider world through travel, while aiming for a career that merges stability with the freedom to indulge his varied interests.
“I would love to raise a family in Bulgaria,” Nathan states. He seeks the freedom to travel, especially between the U.S. and Europe, and appreciates Bulgaria’s natural beauty and strong family connections. “Here, I can enjoy a healthier lifestyle and the scenic beauty of mountains, rivers, and seas,” Nathan notes, highlighting his fondness for Bulgaria. His commitment to Bulgaria is also evident in his efforts to learn Bulgarian, signifying a new life chapter’s beginning.
“As we grow up, we make tougher decisions since we decide where our cards fall. Embracing uncertainty is key,” Nathan reflects. “In the States, uncertainty hindered me, but at AUBG, I know action is crucial despite having unclear goals. It’s a place offering the flexibility to change my mind, which is a good bet.”
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Aleks Slavchev is a senior student double-majoring in Business Administration and Political Science & International Relations at the American University in Bulgaria. Without a background in Journalism, he understands that each individual has a unique narrative and is committed to bringing these stories to light.
