It all started after I finished high school. I was 17, until then mostly focused on school and not ready to dive straight back into the textbooks. Volunteering seemed like the best way to do something meaningful and at the same time see something of the world for myself. A choice that changed my life!

I went to Portugal, where Lisbon became my new home for 10 months. I worked at a daycare and school with young children from families who are struggling. Outside of volunteering, there was at least as much to discover. I lived together with 12 volunteers from many different countries and the weekends were one big adventure. We went to museums together, on day trips to crazy places and visited other places in Portugal. My roommates felt like a big, international family.

Of course, not everything was great. Sometimes situations came in hard, especially when the problems of children or families were intense. It touched me that they were so positive in life despite the problems. That's the Portuguese mentality, I think. In the difficult moments, fortunately, I also had a lot of support from the other volunteers.

What I learned? Before this, I was very focused on my school. Now I have broadened my view: for example, I have seen how challenging and valuable working in the social sector can be. Actually, everyone should do this - to experience what it is like. I have also fallen in love with Lisbon. I took a lot of photos and found out how much I like it. The city will always have a special place in my heart!

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

September 2023

8 Countries. 70 people. 10 days in a foreign country. Erasmus. Different cultures. And the overall topic: Communication. Feelings. Thoughts. Getting to know oneself better. It doesn’t take long to make up my mind. The same evening the registration form is filled out and after a short week of waiting and hoping the answer is here already: I’m in!

April 2024

The first day finally comes. Excitement. Nervousness. Emotions all over the place. Finally! Plane starts, seats found and an amazing start in the unknown. The destination: Cyprus!

Rain at home, hot sun in Cyprus. That’s what greets us when we land. Definitely a great start! Nothing to do for now except for swimming in the pool and getting comfortable with the atmosphere.

The week starts great. Challenges to get to know the city and people, great food, warm weather and incredibly interesting and openminded people. The beautiful thing when so many people from all over Europe come together – everybody is different. So of course everyone is welcome. This is such a heartwarming feeling; one I get to feel all week long.

Time flies by. Every day different tasks. Visiting 4 different cities in Cyprus, many fun games and interesting workshops, laughing with new friends, drinking mocktails at the pool, finding cats every ten meters, picking up a chameleon, learning curse-words in different languages and gaining so much new experience. Way too much to write about all of it.

My absolute highlight: the cultural evenings. We learn about Lithuania, Poland, North Macedonia, Romania, Cyprus, Greece and Portugal. So many fascinating facts and exciting presentations. And afterwards – finally – music on! I think this is the most I have danced in the last year. To every music, somebody else knows an amazing dance. Many are easy to learn and fun to dance, some are really hard to remember. From national dances to song contest steps and macarena. These are the evenings I will never forget.

Afterwards

This youth exchange ended but it was only the beginning of many more. A while after this Erasmus youth exchange was the first time I started to research what Erasmus+ had to offer. I was astonished! So many projects and chances. Next thing I knew, I had already planned two youth exchanges for my summer holidays. 

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

I took part in some of the Time to Move 2024 events through my local Youth Information Centre this year. In particular we enjoyed getting involved with the Interactive Eurodesk Giant Map game and learning about different European countries and flags. The game was interactive, fun and informative. We also attended the EURES event in the local library where the map allowed us to identify the scale of Europe and how we could with our local Europe Direct Centre and Eures to identify an array of European Opportunitites

I thought it was interesting to learn about the different places, foods, currencies and cultures around the world and the game itself was fun, cool and educational. I learned new facts about new countries and since I learned these new facts I will be able to have a better knowledge of a new place when I am there. I would recommend to other young people to get involved with participating in European focused youth activities if they are interested in travelling to other European countries because there are so many great European opportunities available.

Amira was nominated by Waterford South Tipperary Youth Service.

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Before I experienced my first real overseas Erasmus+ project, I’d been dabbling in and around them for quite some time. I had been a very active volunteer in a foundation for people with disadvantages in my city for around three years before they sent me to England. Summer 2015, freshly 18, and first time living through an Erasmus+ project I myself did not have to help organize. I could just let myself be absolutely immersed in the damp English air, acting workshops, melodic accents and so much love of so many cultures.

The project I was part of was called Creativity UK. Prior to taking interest in Erasmus+ and community, life shaped me slowly like water would a rock. The things I learnt from Erasmus+ related events shaped me quickly as an earthquake would the ground. 

I had always prided myself in being a very open-minded, accepting, and loving person; however, I would very swiftly realize I had only scratched the surface of real unbiasedness and activism. The theme of the project was unity. We would tackle prejudice, hate, politics, otherness, belonging. I would open up about things I had never had the heart to before. A Portuguese boy who barely spoke English would hug me with the most sincerity I had ever felt. 

We were there for a week. One week. We laughed and cried and talked and prepared tea for each other. We would be woken up by loud music and shower in cold water. We would sleep on the grass during lunch breaks. We would get to know each other and ourselves, and, most importantly, we would have the chance to do so in a safe environment. We were sure our voices would be heard and never criticized. 

What I understood about all my Erasmus+ experiences is that they bring out something ultimately human in all of us. People experience emotions very intensely. To live the fast life we are bound to lead, to survive the everyday obstacles, we water our emotions down, we try not to feel them in their full capacity. During projects, being picked up from the real world and dropped off somewhere away from reality, we are able to tune into the very humanness of our feelings and feel them thoroughly and entirely. The most beautiful thing is that everyone there does.

Someone might call you insane if you told them you had made a lifelong friend in a weeklong period of time. Those people underestimate the human need and tendency to connect with others. "Man is by nature a social animal,” Aristotle spoke. Having experienced Erasmus+ and the absolute love which, after all these years, still pulsates strong, like an earthquake, in my veins, who am I to disagree?

A poem was written. Then, it sounded like a masterpiece. Now, it echoes the inexperience of an 18-year-old. It ended like this:

In this English rain

I see how much we’re shining

We are the rays of sun

Strong and blinding

And together

We can make this planet warm 

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

From 25 September to 3 October I participated in a very inspiring Erasmus+ training on sustainability in Castelletto di Cuggione, Italy. The event was particularly important for me, as it gave me the opportunity not only to understand environmental issues, but also to learn more about sustainability opportunities for disadvantaged young people.

During the training I learned a lot about issues that affect sustainability, such as the effects of pollution and over-consumption. These issues are not only of theoretical importance, but also deeply touch me on a personal level. After all, we all have a responsibility to look after our planet and to seek solutions that will help future generations.

The trainers were extremely well prepared and inspiring. They were open, kind and willing to share their knowledge and experience, which helped to create a supportive and collaborative atmosphere. I particularly appreciated the opportunity to exchange views and reflect together throughout the programme.

The whole experience was very personal for me. Meeting such dedicated and like-minded people was a huge motivation. I feel that I can use what I have learned not only in future projects, but also in my everyday life. I hope that all of us who worked together will continue to work together for sustainability at local level.

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Hi, I am Elena, a 20-year-old girl from Serbia who cherishes a good trip more than anything! Last year, I got to live my dream when I won a DiscoverEU pass. From that point forward, everything happened so quickly – choosing countries, planning logistics and booking tickets in advance. The whole process felt like a dream, and how could it not? I had a perfect travel companion, a friend I met through the DiscoverEU Facebook group!

We both knew we wanted to embark on a two-week adventure and spend quality time in each country. Our first stop? The land of fire and ice – Iceland. Let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint at all! From the famous Golden Circle tour to visiting volcanic landscapes, petting Icelandic horses and tasting their traditional lamb soup, I left the country full of impressions. We even met some incredibly kind Serbs, who gave us a 20% discount at a supermarket on every purchase we made. What are the chances? The only downside was that we didn’t have a few more days to explore, but we had to continue our trip.  

Do you love stroopwafels? Well, there is no better place to enjoy them than in the Netherlands, which was next on our list. It taught us the art of slowing down. Amsterdam, Haarlem, Delft and Zaandam, with their beautiful canals and iconic windmills, really made us appreciate the opportunity to travel even more. We even managed to meet up with a friend from Budapest, who was on her solo DiscoverEU trip. My biggest takeaway? An ABBA vinyl I found at one of the many flea markets (perfect for a friend back home).

From there we continued to Belgium, a country famous for its waffles and chocolate. (Can you tell by now that we are obsessed with sweets?) We had an interesting few days and met a cute couple from Australia incined. We met them in a restaurant in Antwerp, where we shared a pizza and swapped stories. We also visited Bruges, a small medieval city that felt like stepping back in time with its charming little streets.

And then, the grand finale: Luxembourg. It exceeded our expectations in every way. We decided to join a meetup, where we made some amazing friendships that still last today. From our friend Anrii, who took the role of our local tour guide, to receiving insider tips on the best vacation spots in Italy, enjoying local craft beer and dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, I feel like this trip couldn’t have been any better.

As we boarded our final train back home, we couldn’t help but reflect on the experiences we had had. The chance to travel with DiscoverEU was like opening a box of assorted chocolates (you never knew what you’d get next) but it was always a delightful surprise. So, what’s next to look forward to? One thing’s for sure: the travel bug has bitten, and there’s no going back. I’ll be planning the next big trip, and maybe, just maybe, I’ll try to master the art of packing light. But let’s be honest, that last one might take a few more trips to figure out!

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Greetings! Let me take a moment to introduce myself and share how my Erasmus+ experience has influenced my life and career. Currently, I am actively involved in the implementation of the Erasmus+ Programme in the Republic of Serbia, and I also work as the National Eurodesk Coordinator. How did I get to this point, you ask? Well, if you believe in luck, then we can call it just that.

As a philology student in my final year of undergraduate studies, I made the fearless decision to pursue a study abroad experience in Budapest by applying for the Erasmus+ Student Exchange programme. Uncertain of the outcome, I harboured dreams of experiencing student life in a foreign country. Coming from a non-EU nation, I desired to immerse myself in an educational system that diverged from the one in my home country. As the old saying goes, "If you believe in it, it will happen," and it did. I found myself studying in Budapest for a remarkable semester.

I had such an amazing experience that really opened my mind to different cultures and traditions from around the world. Plus, I gained some valuable skills like adaptability, communication, and independence. There were definitely moments when I felt a bit scared because everything was so new and overwhelming. But facing those fears and uncertainties took a lot of courage, resilience, and self-awareness.

During my time abroad, I had the pleasure of forming wonderful new friendships! There's something truly exhilarating about meeting people from different parts of the world – it adds an entirely new layer of excitement to your travels. Whether it's through an organised exchange programme or simply meeting people at social events, the connections you make can be truly impactful. From bonding over stories of our hometowns to immersing ourselves in the local culture, making new friends abroad was an incredibly fulfilling experience.

Over this time, I've had the chance to learn new skills and really strengthen my love for education. After teaching in a few different places, I'm now in a role where I get to listen to and share the stories and experiences of others. I highly recommend utilising resources like the Eurodesk Network to explore opportunities for young people!

Even though I'm not sure how long I'll be in this role, I do know that Erasmus' influence will always hold a special place in my heart!

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Everything started when I was on a project in Germany, it was my first youth exchange ever. One day during that project, I had a conversation with one participant from my country and he was explaining to me some things regarding ESC and how the whole thing with volunteer projects worked. After that conversation, I was so curious to find out more about those things and as soon as we came back to Serbia, I contacted my association and asked them if there was any possibility of doing a long-term volunteering project. At that very moment, an Italian association we met in Germany was looking for new volunteers. We got in touch and soon after that, everything was ready for me to start.

After 2 months, I went to Italy and I wasn’t expecting anything, everything was new and so odd, it seemed like a dream. The hardest thing at the beginning was getting used to the language, people and the environment itself. During this period, most of my time I spent learning new things and adapting. I was so shy and anxious because everything I was doing was something new for me – I’d never experienced something like that before –  but after some time I started to get used to everything. I became good at Italian, I found new friends and I integrated into the culture. From that very moment, I knew my project was going to be a nice experience.

We had many projects during my stay there in which I learnt a lot, but mostly I learnt about myself. I realized how small the world is and how important it is to gain new experiences. Even after so much time here, I am still flabbergasted sometimes. I often wonder how this is possible – I’m here in another country and I’m speaking another language every single day and experiencing so many new things. Sometimes it was hard to believe that. But after all, I knew that was so normal – being 22 and far away from your country and the things you got used to. When I was about to finish the project, it was so hard to leave that place. I knew that again I would have to leave everything I was used to and, in a way, change my life once again. But I also knew that step was important. Moving on is such a crucial part of our lives because, without that, life would be meaningless.

In the end, I can say that my long-term mobility has changed me a lot and everything I accomplished there will always be so important to me. That part of my life has been the best so far and I’ll never forget the experiences I had and the people I met. Every single thing will always stay in my heart and they will remind me about such a beautiful period of my life. One day I’ll go there again to find my friends, to find those people, and to get the feel of that life again.

Video: https://youtu.be/WFrnEywq0a0?feature=shared 

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

Hey there! If you're reading this, you're on the brink of an exciting adventure – an Erasmus+ project. This is not just a choice, it's a leap into a world of new experiences and opportunities. Get ready to turn your life upside down, in the best possible way!
This also happened to me, and I am willing to share my experience and encourage you to do the same. Trust me, this is worthwhile reading. 

I believe Erasmus+ was destined for me. I did not know what I was applying for and needed to learn the concept. I had heard of it before, but my knowledge could have been better. A few years later – I am an expert. A friend called me and told me she needed some help on a project in Belgrade. Someone dropped out, so she asked if I could join instead. "Yeah, why not!" It was summer, and I had finished my exams, so I was happy to help. Little did I know that was the day I started my Erasmus+ experience, which is still ongoing. After seven projects, I can say it was one of the best decisions ever. My traveling through Europe, meeting amazing people, and learning new words in different languages have started.

The knowledge you gain, the people you meet, and the stories you make are life-changing. Every day, you grow out of your comfort zone, out of your own skin. The personal growth and learning opportunities that an Erasmus+ project offers are truly inspiring and will motivate you to take this life-changing journey.

Erasmus+ is a journey, not only through the world but also through yourself. You break your boundaries, try so many new things, and learn, learn, and learn. You lose touch with the world momentarily, but you get in touch with yourself and strengthen that relationship. The self-discovery aspect of an Erasmus+ project will intrigue you and make you curious about the person you can become.
Are you hitched already? Check the photos attached for an even better experience.

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026

The moment I came to Orahovica until the very end of the project, I had a feeling that time sped up. Even today, two years after the project, it feels like it lasted for months.

It’s difficult to put into words the experience of an Erasmus+ student exchange, sometimes they are crazier, sometimes more educational, but one thing is for certain – each exchange is unforgettable.

On a project, you can meet so many different people from each corner of Europe (and sometimes even the world) and from all kinds of backgrounds. It’s just baffling when you gather all those people who, at first sight, don’t have anything in common with each other, and they have to live in a mini-society for around a week.

On our project in Orahovica, Croatia, we had the opportunity not only to meet different cool people with whom we are still in contact to this day, but we also got the chance to learn so many practical and everyday skills (such as not getting lost in the forest, Ivan). 

I wasn’t at all expecting that I would be learning video editing at a project about populism, but I was delighted because, honestly, I would have never spontaneously picked up that skill.

Erasmus+ projects will always, intentionally or not, teach you useful life skills, especially the logistics of independent traveling. They merely give you an introduction to the essence of multiculturalism, where you will, on the same day, learn how to make a Spanish meal, perform a Romanian dance, and say a (usually not so nice) phrase in Lithuanian.

All in all, I truly recommend youth exchanges to each and every person who desires a fresh new adventure and wishes to expand their horizons, because they will always be a unique and different experience that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026