Experience with "Erasmus+" youth exchange in Turkey

The first trip to a foreign country for a week without parents, living with a Turkish host family, and attending one of the Turkish schools, getting to know many young people from various European countries, and learning about their culture and traditions, improving English language skills, and going on excursions around enchanting and promising Turkey... All of this relates to my first youth exchange experience, which I had the opportunity to experience four years ago when I was in the sixth grade (at that time, I was the youngest participant in the project)! Although quite some time has passed since this trip, all the experiences remain indelibly etched in my memory, and the warm connections with the people I met there have endured to this day. Sometimes it feels as if it all happened just yesterday. 

The partners of this "Erasmus+" youth exchange program were six countries: Lithuania, Portugal, Spain, Poland, Italy, and Turkey. Schools from each country sent three students and two teacher-leaders to Turkey. So, when I received an offer from my English teacher, the project manager of the "Erasmus+" program at our school, to participate, I immediately consulted with my parents and agreed. It was a completely new and promising experience for me – an enriching adventure that opened my eyes to different cultures. 

During the first few days, we traveled and had various excursions around this magnificent country. From the ancient marvels of Istanbul to the serene landscapes – Turkey's cultural heritage captivated me at every turn. I immersed myself in architectural wonders such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, marveling at their grandeur. The aroma of various spices, perfumes, and incense, as well as the scent of Turkish sweets, pleasantly tickled our noses as we explored the intricate streets of the Grand Bazaar. But beyond the vibrant cityscapes, Turkey's natural wonders left me awe-inspired. I was impressed by the cascading beauty of Pamukkale's terraces. Pamukkale Thermal Baths is an incredible place created by nature itself and attracts millions of visitors every year. From the Turkish language, the name translates as "cotton castle." Indeed, when you look at the Pamukkale resort from afar, it appears as though a castle made of many fluffy cotton balls stands majestically in front of you. This place is also called "Cleopatra's pool"—according to legend, it was here that the Egyptian queen gained her beauty and youth. However, despite its amazing beauty, Pamukkale's pools also possess great healing properties. The diverse geography of Turkey offered me a stunning appreciation of the natural world. 

The remaining days were spent in Eşme, Uşak, where we lived with Turkish host families and studied in Turkish schools. Studying in a Turkish school and experiencing a different education system, even if only briefly, was truly interesting. We also had an international evening during which we presented our country's traditions and learned about the culture of other countries. However, the most significant aspect of this project was living with a Turkish host family. It served as a gateway to genuine cultural immersion. My host family imparted invaluable insights into Turkish traditions and daily life. It was a truly authentic experience that deepened my understanding of Turkish culture. They introduced me to the warmth and generosity that define Turkish hospitality. They were also very interested in my hometown and Lithuania—our traditions, culture, and language. I taught them some Lithuanian phrases, treated them to Lithuanian sweets, shared stories, and even sang a few Lithuanian songs. I am glad that we have remained in touch with our host family until now. A host family always remains your second home. 

The youth exchange program in Turkey had a profound impact on my personal growth. It broadened my perspectives and nurtured qualities such as adaptability, open-mindedness, and responsibility. It was a transformative journey that left an indelible mark on my life. It allowed me to forge lifelong friendships and expand my global perspective. Turkey will always hold a special place in my heart, and I carry the lessons learned and friendships made as cherished treasures. I am deeply grateful for the memories, lessons, and connections that this remarkable program bestowed upon me, and I wholeheartedly encourage others to embark on similar adventures of cultural exploration and personal growth.

Updated on Tuesday, 04/07/2023