ERASMUS+ EXPERIENCE IN MARIBOR, SLOVENIA AND INTERNSHIP AT ZNI

What was the selection process like?
 
In March 2023, I took a written test and underwent a motivational interview to apply. In April, the results were released, and unfortunately, I did not make it into the ranking. Fortunately, in December 2023, I was included in the second mobility cycle. So now, from January 27th to February 27th, I am in Slovenia!
 
How do I spend my time here and how long will I stay?
 
I will stay here for a month. From Monday to Friday, I work in the ZNI office, taking care of the documentation for participants like me in these Erasmus plus projects. Sometimes, I also accompany student groups when they need guidance. On the weekends, I spend time with my roommates, sharing wonderful experiences.
 
What is it like living with people I didn’t know before?
 
I share my apartment with 9 other people, 8 girls, and 1 boy. Living together has never scared me, not even before leaving. I didn’t know these people, but in a short time, we managed to bond a lot. We get along very well, and I’m sure that the friendships we've created will also be maintained in our city.
 
Does my life feel different since I’ve been here?
 
Surely, some of my habits have changed, such as the fact that I am not going to school but to work and the fact that I live with other people. This experience is having a great positive impact on my life; it is stimulating me to grow on an emotional and cultural level.
 
What do I like most about the city where I am?
 
Precisely, I am in Maribor, a city in Slovenia. It is not a big city, but I like it a lot because it gives me serenity and tranquility. The people are kind, the city is very clean, and transportation works very well.
 
Why did I choose to leave on Erasmus mobility?
 
I chose to leave for various reasons, despite many people close to me advising against it since I have my high school exams in June, and "losing" a month of lessons is very demanding. I listened to myself because I knew that this experience would help me improve my level of English, lead me to make new acquaintances, and better understand how important it is to be independent. I recommend everyone my age to participate in experiences like these, even when they are doubtful; they will change their mind once there!

Gaia Leonetti