Padova

For the second half of my year abroad I ended up studying as an Erasmus student at the University in Padova for five months taking classes in Italian Literature, History of the Italian language, Italian-French translation, and an Italian course for foreign students. I actually wanted to work having done so for the previous six months, however this was equally as beneficial if not more so. Having spent six months in France, I was already fairly accustomed to living in a foreign country without the luxury of having family and close friends close by and having to get used to new surroundings quickly. Erasmus was a completely different experience to working – Despite not having specific hours and wages, I can honestly say it has been an amazing five months. I knew nothing about Padova itself so when I arrived I was instantly loving how “very Italian” everything was (I had done exchanges before in other regions but not seen the everyday life side of things!). It is a brilliant town with plenty of life and the impossibility to ever get bored, that and being so close to Venice which has become my new favourite city.

I had already been warned that the system with the university/exams and paperwork was slower in Italy, so for once in my life my incredibly laid back side of me came in very useful! Not only has Erasmus improved my confidence and made me more responsible with my money, I also study a lot more now and have a whole new group of friends (each from a different place) so I had plenty of opportunities to go for an ice cream or Spritz and practise my Italian. Luckily I also had a lot of support from the university’s lecturers and from Aberystwyth who were only an email away if I did need anything.

I think one of the best things about doing Erasmus in Padova has been its variety of students from all over the world, and its location in Italy. Since arriving here I have travelled to Milan, Brescia, Verona, Lake Garda, Venice, Florence, Pisa and Siena – In the space of five months I have seen amazing places and been able to do it all in my target language, perfect. A truly unforgettable time abroad which I could repeat a thousand times.

Claire Stewart

R900 European Languages (French, Italian and minor Spanish)
2011/12 - Erasmus placement in Padova, Italy