When I first received the news that I had been selected to participate in the Erasmus+ Student Exchange program to the Czech Republic, I could hardly contain my excitement. It felt like the culmination of years of dreaming and hard work. Yet, the reality of it all didn’t fully set in until I found myself standing at Hosea Kutako International Airport, luggage in hand, about to embark on my very first journey to Europe.
The Beginning of an Unforgettable Journey
This all began in late January 2024, at a time when I found myself unsure of what to do with the year. As much as I hated to admit it, the previous semester had left its mark on me. I was exhausted and felt a deep sense of stagnation.
I remember asking myself, “I passed? Yes! But at what cost?” My academic journey had been fulfilling yet taxing, and I longed for something that would reignite my passion for learning and personal growth.
When the first notice for the exchange program was posted, my friends encouraged me to apply. At first, I hesitated—doubt and uncertainty clouding my thoughts. But with their support and the encouragement of my family, I took the leap.
I spent countless hours perfecting my application, writing essays, gathering documents, and envisioning what my life could be if I got this opportunity. When the acceptance email finally arrived, I was overwhelmed with joy. The first person I called was my mother, who was just as ecstatic as I was. Her excitement and pride reassured me that I was on the right path.
Stepping into a New World
Fast forward a few months, and I found myself stepping into the bustling Prague Airport. I vividly remember taking a deep breath and telling myself that this was the start of something life-changing, an adventure that would forever change my perspective on the world and my place in it. I promised myself that I would seize every opportunity and make the absolute best of my time in the Czech Republic.
The first few weeks were a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, nervousness, and curiosity all mingling together. Navigating a new culture, adapting to a different academic environment, and meeting people from all over the world was both exciting and overwhelming. But soon, I settled into the rhythm of my new life, and each day became an opportunity to learn, explore, and grow.
One of the most enriching aspects of my Erasmus experience was the incredible people I met. From Taiwan to Morocco and Colombia to Japan, my world expanded in ways I never imagined.
We bonded over late-night study sessions, spontaneous weekend trips, and cultural exchange events that allowed us to share pieces of our heritage with one another. Whether it was singing “Country Roads” around a campfire or taking a train to Adrspach, every moment with this diverse group of friends was filled with laughter and unforgettable memories.
Being in Europe also meant having the opportunity to explore beyond the borders of the Czech Republic. I found myself wandering through the cobblestone streets of Budapest, standing in awe before the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and marvelling at the grand Colosseum in Rome.
Each city, each historical monument, and each new experience deepened my appreciation for the beauty of the world and the richness of different cultures.
The Bittersweet Moments
Spending Christmas away from home for the first time was a bittersweet experience. The warmth of family traditions was replaced by a gathering of friends from different backgrounds, each bringing their own unique holiday customs to the table.
We shared stories, laughter, and meals, tasting dishes from each other’s homelands. It was a reminder that home is not just a place; it is the people who make you feel loved and understood.
New Year’s Eve in Hradec Králové was another unforgettable experience. Watching fireworks light up the town square, surrounded by locals and fellow students, filled me with a sense of belonging. The Czech people know how to welcome a new year with joy and enthusiasm, and being part of it was something I will cherish forever.
Growth, Challenges, and Lessons Learned
Erasmus was not just about travelling and making friends; it was a journey of self-discovery. It pushed me beyond my comfort zone, forced me to embrace challenges, and taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. Living in a foreign country, navigating a new education system, and adjusting to different cultural norms was not always easy, but every challenge was an opportunity to grow.
I developed a deeper appreciation for cultural exchange and diversity. I learnt to communicate beyond language barriers, to listen with an open heart, and to value perspectives different from my own. Most importantly, I realised how interconnected we all are despite our differences.
A Heart Full of Gratitude
As my Erasmus journey came to an end, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. Gratitude for the friendships, the experiences, and the lessons that have shaped me into a more confident, open-minded, and globally aware individual. The past five months have been a whirlwind of adventure, discovery, and personal growth, and I would not trade a single moment of it.
To anyone considering an opportunity like this, I can only say: Take it. Embrace the unknown, the challenges, and the adventures. It will change your life in ways you never thought possible, just as it has changed mine.
Erasmus was more than just a student exchange program; it was a transformative journey that will stay with me forever. And as I prepare to return home, I do so with a heart full of memories, friendships that transcend borders, and a renewed sense of purpose. This is not the end; it is just the beginning of a lifetime of exploration, learning, and meaningful connections.
