It had been over two years since I started studying in France, and my love for art history, architecture, and culture continued to grow. However, this year was marked by monotony due to the coronavirus pandemic. Fortunately, an opportunity arose to break this routine and explore a new culture: the Erasmus exchange program. I jumped at the chance and chose Dresden as my destination. Here is an overview of this unforgettable experience.
Choosing Dresden: A Well-Considered Decision
Choosing a destination wasn’t easy. With so many possibilities, I had to weigh the advantages of each city. My main goal was to improve my language skills and broaden my knowledge in a different environment. Dresden, with its rich heritage in art history and literature, emerged as the ideal choice. The city is a gem of Romanticism and Expressionism, two movements that particularly fascinate me.
Preparations and Challenges: A Path Full of Obstacles
The idea of going to Germany was exciting but also stressful. Fortunately, my German professor in France guided me and encouraged me to apply to the Dresden Academy of Fine Arts (HFBK). Thanks to his support and the acquisition of a scholarship, I was able to overcome financial obstacles and embark on this adventure. Without this help, it would have been impossible to cover the costs of living and studying in a new country.
Life in Dresden: A Blend of Cultures and Discoveries
From the moment I arrived in Dresden, I knew I had made the right choice. This city, located on the banks of the Elbe, is a true cultural melting pot. Living in an Erasmus student residence allowed me to meet students from all over the world. Together, we shared our cultures, cooked traditional dishes, and learned from each other. We organized small parties for Christmas and New Year’s, a gingerbread house decoration contest, an artistic program, and a secret Santa gift exchange. These moments of exchange and discovery enriched my experience far beyond the classroom.
The Daily Life of an Erasmus Student
The university system in Dresden was different from what I was used to. At first, I was a bit nervous, but the warm welcome from my professors and classmates quickly eased my worries. One of the most memorable experiences was a dinner prepared by our professor after the first official meeting. This kind of closeness and exchange was new to me and greatly contributed to my integration.
Pandemic-related restrictions limited our ability to visit museums, but our art history professor adapted by introducing us to private collections and the architectural treasures of Dresden. The academy offered a creative environment with numerous workshops. I explored various fields, from drawing to engraving and photography.
The Challenges of an Adventure Abroad
While this experience was enriching, it wasn’t without its difficulties. I faced issues such as my French SIM card being blocked, banking transfer problems, and even the lockdown that restricted our movements. Being in a foreign city with limited knowledge of the local language was sometimes disconcerting. But these challenges are an integral part of the Erasmus experience and helped me grow.
An Unforgettable Experience
Participating in an exchange program like Erasmus is a unique adventure that goes far beyond academic learning. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and provided me with precious memories and friendships. Even though everything wasn’t perfect, each difficulty encountered was part of a larger journey that enriched me personally and professionally.
Ultimately, my stay in Dresden was a transformative experience. It allowed me to discover a new culture, improve my artistic skills, and build lasting relationships. If you have the opportunity to participate in an international exchange, I highly encourage you to do so. It’s a chance to grow and see the world from a new perspective.
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