Marta Marques, Incoming student for the Faculty of Science and Technology for Sustainable Development and One Health
Choosing Rome for my Erasmus experience was a decision full of expectations — and fortunately, they were all exceeded. From day one, I felt very welcomed by my lab colleagues, which made the adaptation process much easier.
The first week was a whirlwind of emotions: I was nervous, excited, and a bit lost. I came to intern in an area not deeply explored in my course in Coimbra, which pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me grow, both personally and academically.
One cultural difference that stood out to me was the way “Dolce far niente” is valued here. In Portugal, we tend to live at a faster pace, always concerned with productivity. Here, I’m learning that stopping is important too, and that taking a moment to pause can be just as valuable as completing a task.
This experience has transformed me. I’ve learned to be more independent, more open to the unknown, and more confident in my abilities. I’ve also realized that we don’t always need to have everything planned for things to work out — sometimes, you just have to say “yes” and trust the process.
During my stay, I had the opportunity to explore not only Rome but also several cities and places in Italy. In addition to the traditional tourist spots, I fell in love with small towns and lesser-known locations that showed me an authentic and peaceful side of Italy. I also took the opportunity to try learning Italian, which was a great way to further integrate myself into the local culture.
If you’re thinking about doing Erasmus, go for it! Even if the beginning seems confusing or scary, everything falls into place with time. Take the leap. Because in the end, it’s one of those experiences that truly marks you for life.
Izabela Tofan, Incoming student for the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery
My name is Izabela, and I am currently in my fourth year of general medicine. There is so much to say about this experience that I don’t even know where to start. As a little girl from a small village dreaming of studying at prestigious universities, this year has been a real blessing. I can truly say that it changed my life in so many ways.
I strongly believe that everything that has happened in my life happened for a reason. I wasn’t planning to go abroad as an Erasmus student until my fifth year, but then I applied — and here I am, writing this from the university cafeteria.
From a professional perspective, it’s incredible to see how different this place is from everything I’ve experienced so far. As a future doctor, this university and hospital provide an excellent environment for learning and practice. I have learned so much during these months. The professors are AMAZING!
From a personal perspective, this experience has taught me courage and given me a great deal of confidence. Living in a city like Rome, especially during the Jubilee Year, wasn’t easy — but I managed.
Being here has made me realize that I can achieve everything I’ve ever dreamed of. This place has given me so many opportunities. I’m sure I will carry this year at Campus Bio-Medico in my heart as the year that made me grow — as a person, as a young woman in her 20s, and as a future doctor. I am beyond grateful for everything.
