Dishti Jadeja is a Student Ambassador who participated in an Erasmus exchange at Wageningen University, representing her home university and Italy at the Study Abroad Fair.
Published on 07 January 2025 | Asia
A Transformative Erasmus Journey
Participating in an Erasmus exchange has been a transformative journey that went beyond academics. As a Student Ambassador for the University of Bologna (UNIBO) at Wageningen University, I had the honor of representing my home university and Italy at the Study Abroad Fair, alongside students from around the world. It was a proud moment to showcase my cultural and academic background, interact with over 100 visitors in just three hours, and even receive recognition for our engaging presentation. Beyond the classroom, I took part in activities like fencing and ballroom dancing, which added a social dimension to my Erasmus experience. These moments, combined with the pride of representing my university and country, turned Erasmus into a celebration of growth, learning, and connections—a decision I’ll cherish forever. Erasmus was also the perfect opportunity to gain a multicultural perspective and deepen my understanding of tourism. For me, this exchange was more than just academic; it was a practical, hands-on adventure—similar to what an automotive engineer might experience on a factory tour or a researcher in the field. It was a chance to learn from diverse cultures, while also aligning with my career aspirations.
Personal and Academic Growth
Erasmus has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for both my personal and academic growth. From the initial application process to navigating documentation and final confirmations, each step provided valuable learning experiences. I’ve gained practical skills in managing complex tasks, which will prove beneficial when I enter the professional world. The support I received from both UNIBO and the partner institution was exceptional. Erasmus has shown me how policy commitments can truly translate into action, which, as someone from a developing country, has been a profound lesson. This experience has reshaped my understanding of international collaboration and teamwork in ways that will impact my future career. Adapting to life in the Netherlands was an exciting challenge. The weather and food were the most noticeable changes—Dutch weather certainly keeps you on your toes! What surprised me most was the efficiency and brevity of email communication; everything is clear and straight to the point. Living in a quiet student town, surrounded by cycling paths and forests, was a refreshing contrast to Rimini’s lively, tourism-filled streets. The academic environment, with its sprawling campus, multi-story libraries, and the largest bicycle park I’ve ever seen, felt like a completely different world from the cozy charm of UNIBO Rimini.
Unforgettable Moments
One of the most unforgettable moments of my Erasmus experience was the orientation at Wageningen University. For three or four days, I met classmates from all over the world, bonding through games, competitions, and even wild parties that lasted until dawn. It was the perfect way to break the ice and made settling into a new environment so much easier. That experience truly made my college life feel complete, and the atmosphere was one I can only describe as "It happens only in the Netherlands!" Erasmus is the ultimate chance to discover yourself—your strengths, weaknesses, and potential. It’s an opportunity to see the world, immerse yourself in different cultures, and grow beyond what you thought was possible. For European students, it’s a chance to explore your continent in a more personal way. My advice? Apply early, ideally before your final year, so you can fully benefit from both the Erasmus experience and your home university studies. Yes, stepping out of your comfort zone is intimidating, but the personal growth, memories, and friendships you make will stay with you forever. Take the leap—you won’t regret it!