When I look back at my life, I often divide it into 2 parts: before Erasmus and after Erasmus.

Before my Erasmus, I was unsure of myself, hesitant, and overthinking everything. I wanted real friendships, real experiences, real freedom. But I didn’t know where to find them. And then, I arrived in Prague for what would become the most beautiful 5 months of my life.
I didn’t know then that I was walking into a city that would reshape me, a life that would feel almost unreal, and friendships that would stay with me long after the semester ended. But that is the magic of Erasmus, it gives without warning. You meet people without overthinking, you join plans you would normally refuse, you start saying yes more often.

Especially the last 2 months shaped me the most. That is when you already know everyone by name, by voice, by heart. You have your friend group, your spontaneous routines, and your places. Every corner of the city holds a memory. And you suddenly realise time is running out. You try to enjoy every second. Because you know, unfortunately, it will not last forever. And that’s when the break point begins.
We were all there for the same reason: to live, to enjoy, to experience, to make friends without overthinking. You explore new streets after classes. You all study together, party together, eat together, and grow together. Slowly, small talks became real discussions, random walks turned into traditions, and strangers became some of the most important people in my life.

I didn’t feel the change happening while I was there. It came later, the day I returned home. I slipped back into my old life, but something didn’t fit anymore. Everything was the same, except me. I felt an emptiness that nothing could fill. Erasmus had ended, but the feeling it left didn’t. That emptiness pushed me forward. It pushed me to grow and act.
I started to engage with Erasmus students here more because I wanted to give them what Prague gave me: those magical moments, those friendships, those memories that stay with you forever. I joined Erasmus events, shared my story, and encouraged others to take the step. Every time I talk to new students, I tell them the truth: Erasmus WILL change your life. It will give you the best months you’ve ever lived, if you allow yourself to be brave.

Today, I still feel strongly connected to Erasmus, not just as a memory, but as a part of who I am now. And that is why, in February 2026, I am packing my bags again. This time for Palermo. I am going with no fear, only happiness and excitement. I don’t know what exactly awaits for me there, but I know it will be extraordinary. I know I will meet new people, reconnect with old friends, learn more, grow more, feel more, and come back with new stories.

Erasmus taught me to be brave. Erasmus taught me to live without “what if”. Erasmus taught me that home can exist in more than one place. And now, I am ready for my next one. If you are reading this and wondering whether you should go, the only answer is “yes”. Go. Take the courage, take the risk. Take the chance to change your life most unexpectedly and unforgettably.

Because some experiences happen only once. Some friendships are born only when you step out of your comfort zone. And lastly, some chapters can only begin when you are ready to open the door. Some experiences change everything, and Erasmus is one of them. Prague was my yesterday that opened my eyes. Palermo will be my tomorrow that opens new doors. And Erasmus is the reason I became the version of myself I always wanted to meet.