Hello everyone,

As I write this final article, the temperature outside in France hits 37°C, a pretty intense “welcome back” compared to the relatively cool Czech weather I got used to. Even on the hottest days in Pilsen (like the 34°C I once experienced), there was always that fresh breeze blowing. Here in France ? Not so much.

A Cultural Exchange Above All

When I first landed in Czechia, I didn’t fully know what to expect. I thought I’d study, maybe travel a bit… but it turned out to be way more about people. This Erasmus wasn’t just a university experience; it was a true cultural exchange.

I met people from all over Europe, each with their own background, habits, and ways of seeing the world. We shared meals, music, stories, and languages. And through all those small everyday moments, I learned a lot not from books, but from actual life with others.

Personal Growth (and Some Cheese Cravings)

I’m naturally someone who loves staying in, but Erasmus pushed me out of that comfort zone. I went to Erasmus parties, joined jam sessions in bars, and slowly started feeling more at ease trying new things. It wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it.

Living in a country where my native language isn’t understood made me realize how far I could go in English. I can now listen for hours without getting tired (which used to happen quickly), and I speak more naturally than before. That alone made the trip valuable.

Also, I have to be honest, the Czech cuisine didn’t really win me over. Sure, the beer is cheap and everywhere, but I definitely missed French cheese and meat (I thinks all of the French food) more than I expected. So yes, it feels good to be back home, where the food feels like home too.

A Funny and Colorful Country

Czechia is a country full of quirks that made me smile. The bright colors of the buildings are everywhere; pink, yellow, green and I remember a Czech guy once telling me he didn’t like them because it looked like a “circus”. Add in their intense love for beer, their habit of not stopping for pedestrians, and some curious traditions involving beer and sausages, and you’ve got a place that never stopped surprising me.

Final Thoughts

This Erasmus has been much more than just studying abroad. It’s been about meeting, sharing, adapting, and growing. I’m leaving with more than memories, I’m leaving with new skills, new friends, and a slightly better sense of direction (both geographically and personally).

If you ever get the chance to go, take it. You never know who you’ll meet or how much you’ll grow.

Ahoj, and goodbye !