Laila's Story of Exchange Studies in Croatia

Laila made a decision to enter Erasmus + study mobility because she aspired to leave her comfort zone, try something new and challenging, to gain international experience, new impressions and contacts. “I had never heard of any adverse experiences with Erasmus + programmes, so when I received an e-mail about this opportunity, I immediately contacted the external relations coordinator, arranged a consultation, described the situation, received answers to my questions, and was definitely encouraged to make every effort to try it. Believe me, neither work nor any other circumstances can be an obstacle! IT'S MORE THAN WORTH IT! If you still have doubts, write privately to a student who has already been to the country or university of your choice to find out more about things that worry you,” says Laila Milakne.

She applied for Erasmus + studies spontaneously, it simply clicked one night that she must try instead of waiting for some right and correct moment, because there is no such thing, she realized that it is necessary to try right now, this instant! Laila sent the application and waited for an answer without telling anyone. After the results of the application competition, Laila received an answer that she had been nominated to the university of her first choice. “I was very agitated, but happy! Then the preparation period began, I started filling in all the forms, very soon I was contacted by my host university. If I had any problem or difficulty to understand anything, I could refer to our Erasmus + coordinators, who were very responsive and supportive! Even if you are far away from your university, you will always be able to communicate with it by writing e-mails,” Laila recalls.

Laila notes that her greatest gains are international experience, new contacts from different countries, undeniably, the travel opportunities, a chance to become less constrained and gain self-confidence. She believes that her experience is definitely different from others, because Laila lived through the COVID-19 period abroad without returning to Latvia. It was an interesting period that she was able to spend with herself, which is also an integral part of personal growth, especially for students who are at the beginning of their life path and need time to consider their future and careers. “I have not regretted my choice for a moment! In my opinion, every student should use this opportunity, because it makes the learning process more understandable, it makes you more competitive! You can take a look at how the learning process is organized in other countries, what are the requirements. Of course, the language aspect is also important, because studying in English or another language is different, you have to get used to it,” says the student.

Laila's most striking impression was the country she went to – Croatia. “It fascinated me with its peace, its warmth and views, with the joy of living and responsiveness of people. It is a unique cultural experience, you will feel like a local resident,” says Laila. 

She definitely recommends not to be afraid and dare, the most important thing is to “ask”.

“You will be amazed at how much you can learn even before you leave Latvia or choose a host university. You should definitely pay attention to host university requirements. languages you need to know, whether they request a passed TOEFL exam. The more you know, the better for you! Don't put off paperwork until the last minute, but instead complete it in good time. Don't look for reasons that keep you from going away, but rather consider the opportunities, benefits! Ask yourself – when shall I be able to do it, if not now?” – Laila advises other students who consider enrolment in the exchange programme.