Erasmus Student Experiences in Valencia: Miriami from Georgia
We talked with Georgian erasmus student Miriami, to ask about her experience for the semester she spent under the Erasmus KA171 program.
1. How has your experience been living in Valencia so far?
It is my first time abroad and I was very nervous about it, but I think Valencia is the best city if you want to live abroad because in general, Spanish people are very friendly and they are the best if you want to feel like you are at home. And Valencia is the best place.
2. What challenges have you faced adapting to a new country and culture?
I came here with my friend, at first it is difficult to get to know a new city, but I think if you want to meet more friends I recommend going to Erasmus activities or meeting Spanish people because then you will learn more about the culture and the language.
3. How have you managed the language barrier? Did you speak Spanish before coming, or have you learned it here?
I think the most difficult part for me was the language barrier because when I came here I didn’t know anything in Spanish, but I had a Spanish course at the university and I had really good teachers who tried their best to prepare us for Spanish, so finally, it was not that difficult because of their help.
4. How do you think this Erasmus experience will influence your future academic and professional goals?
I think the Erasmus Experience was very beneficial for me. I have learned how to live alone and how to manage problems that you have in your day-to-day life. Erasmus is a really good opportunity to meet new people and also to learn more about yourself and other people’s culture. Moreover, academically because here at UPV there are very good and professional professors that try to teach you everything you didn’t know.
5. What advice would you give to other students considering participating in an Erasmus program in Valencia?
I would advise them to attend Erasmus activities. They post activities and trips on Instagram every weekend, where you can meet a lot of friends. So, I recommend going there. I tried to travel to other countries and couldn’t do it without their help. I feel kind of guilty because I would like to participate more