My Erasmus+ experience

It all started in 2023, in the second year of my studies, when I decided to apply for a long-term Erasmus in Belgium. The waiting period until acceptance by the host university was full of emotions; Anxiety about whether to accept me, but also anticipation, because I knew that a unique journey was about to begin. When the final answer came and I was officially informed that I had been accepted, my joy was indescribable and preparations immediately began: Home, tickets and all the essentials.

In September it was time to take my first steps out of my comfort zone. The questions were many: Will I be able to do it? Am I going to make new friends or am I going to be alone? All this was answered in just one week, during which I managed to adapt to a new, foreign environment and establish relationships with people who would accompany me not only in the six months of my studies, but also throughout my life.

I could not imagine that every week I would discover something new. Kitchens in the hearths became our favourite spot, as there we knew each other's culture, not only through conversations but also through cooking. I travelled with people who at first were unknown, but in the end became the closest people to me.

At the same time, my contact with different teaching approaches opened my horizons and made me see my education in a completely different way. This academic experience has been an important personal and spiritual development for me.

The most difficult parts of this experience were two. The first was nostalgia, especially as the Christmas holidays approached, when I felt more strongly the distance from my family. There were times when I missed them a lot, but my new friends were always there to support me. The second and most difficult was goodbye: Farewell to the people who became my family in these six months, in my room and in the country where I created so many memories.

Looking back at all these moments, if anyone asks me today if it was worth it, my answer is clear: 100%. I would not change anything, neither the difficult days nor the easy days, because it is a unique experience, which I believe is worth living at least once in your life.

Updated on utorok, 17/03/2026