From May 25th to 29th, 2026, I had the opportunity to participate in an international exchange program at the University of Extremadura in Cáceres, as part of an Erasmus+ international project that the University is conducting with partner institutions from the Western Balkan countries. During my stay, I took part in the international program “Common Values of the European Union: Global Values” alongside students, faculty members, and administrative staff.
The program was dedicated to the study of the common values of the European Union, with a special focus on democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and environmental protection. Lectures and workshops were led by professors from the University of Extremadura as well as distinguished experts from other European universities. Through interactive discussions and collaborative work in international teams, we had the opportunity to exchange experiences, analyze contemporary European challenges, and deepen our understanding of the European integration process.
In addition to the academic component of the program, the exchange offered an exceptional opportunity to become familiar with Spanish culture, traditions, and lifestyle. The city of Cáceres, known for its rich history and its exceptionally well-preserved old town (a UNESCO World Heritage site), made a strong impression on me. Being in an international environment also allowed me to establish contacts with colleagues from different countries and academic backgrounds.
I would particularly emphasize the openness and hospitality of our hosts at the University of Extremadura, who made all participants feel welcome and fully included in all of the program’s activities. The organization of the program was of a high standard, and the combination of academic content, workshops, and cultural activities enabled us to gain new experiences.
Participation in this exchange was a valuable experience that contributed significantly to my personal and professional development. In addition to gaining new knowledge in the fields of European integration and international cooperation, I established contacts that will be useful in future academic and professional endeavors. For these reasons, I would recommend that all students take advantage of the opportunities offered by international mobility programs, as they represent a unique chance to gain new knowledge, learn about different cultures, and develop the competencies needed in the modern international environment.
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