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First steps on your Erasmus journey

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Reading time: 3 minutes
It’s finally happening. After all the planning, the paperwork, and endless daydreaming, you’re on the verge of starting your Erasmus journey. September has arrived, and with it comes a flood of emotions, excitement, curiosity, maybe even a hint of fear. You might be wondering: What will it be like?
The city of Seoul during nightime
The city of Seoul (picture by the author)

You’re not alone in feeling this mix of emotions. Everyone about to embark on this adventure has stood exactly where you are now, at the edge of something new and unfamiliar. It’s perfectly normal to feel a little overwhelmed. After all, stepping into the unknown can be scary. But here's the thing: that same unknown is where all the magic happens.

As you take your first steps into this new chapter, you’ll start to realise that Erasmus is about much more than just studying in a different country. It’s about learning to navigate a whole new world, where every experience becomes a part of your story. In the beginning, things might feel strange or even challenging. But with time, those very moments will turn into the memories you cherish most.

You’ll find yourself discovering new places, not just on a map, but within yourself. The world opens up in unexpected ways when you allow yourself to get lost in it. And slowly, as you adapt to your new surroundings, you'll start to feel more at home. The unfamiliar streets that once seemed so foreign will become part of your routine, and what once felt daunting will soon feel empowering.

Two girls on a library looking for books
Exploring new city spots (picture by the author)

But Erasmus isn’t just about where you go, it’s about who you meet along the way. As you step into this shared experience with students from all corners of the globe, you’ll form bonds that will stay with you for a lifetime. There’s something special about being part of a community where everyone is in the same boat, each person discovering something new about themselves while learning from each other.

And also (finally!) experiencing the first taste of true independence. For many, their exchange is the first time living away from home for an extended period, making it the perfect chance to make decisions for yourself, whether that means exploring new hobbies, travelling to places you’ve only seen in pictures, or simply learning how to live life on your own terms. And yes, there will be moments when things don’t go exactly as planned, but those moments are just part of the adventure. 

Seoul city from Namsan
The view of Seoul city from Namsan (picture by the author)

By the end of it all, you’ll come back not just with a suitcase full of memories but with a new perspective on life and yourself. You’ll realise that this experience wasn’t just about stepping into a new country. It was about stepping into your potential and learning how much more you’re capable of than you ever imagined.

So, as you stand on the brink of this adventure, remember: it’s okay to be a little scared. But trust the journey ahead, because the best stories are the ones where you take the leap (even when you’re not sure where you’ll land). 

Erasmus is waiting, and it’s ready to change your life in ways you can’t even begin to imagine. Are you ready for it? 

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