A first-time Erasmus+ experience that changed me

When I applied for my first Erasmus+ project that was organised by my highschool "Voievodul Mircea" in Târgoviște, I was curious, but also a bit unsure. I didn’t really know what to expect since I didn’t know anyone who could tell me how it will be. But what I discovered was much more than just a trip. It was an experience that helped me grow as a person, develop new skills, and friendships.

During the mobility in Croatia, I learned how to work in a team with people my age from other countries, how to communicate better, even when we didn’t speak the same language perfectly. I improved my English skills without even realizing it, and I became more confident in expressing my ideas.

I discovered what adaptability truly means, being able to navigate in a new environment, with different rules and customs. I learned to be open to diversity, to listen, to understand and to respect other perspectives.

Some of the most valuable skills I gained? Initiative, empathy, and critical thinking. Erasmus+ is not just about what you learn in the classroom, it’s about what you learn about yourself and others, outside of it.

I would recommend this opportunity to any young person. It’s an experience that enriches you professionally, but transforms you personally. And what you gain, confidence, international friendships, a European mindset, stays with you forever. 

Looking back to my past, I realized how much these experiences changed me, in a really good way, because if I hadn’t applied, I would still be the quiet kid of the class scared of the unknown.
 

Updated on Tuesday, 17/02/2026