Sarah’s Erasmus experience at IADE in Lisbon, Portugal.
Today, we’re featuring Sarah, an ICM student from Belgium, who had an incredible semester at the IADE University in Lisbon, Portugal. Check out her story to see what she experienced and learned during her time abroad!
- What was your first impression of the host country and its culture?
My first impression of Lisbon was how different of a capital it is compared to Brussels. Growing up, everyone was always in a rush, stressed and under pressure. Here, everyone is laid back, stress-free, and taking life one day at a time. It was also 27° when I landed here! Huge difference compared to Belgium. Also, everything is a walking distance, but it’s usually uphill and a lot of stairs.
- Can you share a memorable cultural experience you had during your Erasmus stay?
One of my most memorable experiences was when I went to the carnival of Torres Vedras! Through Erasmus organisation, I had the chance to go with some friends. We took the bus with other Erasmus students, it was about one hour and a half away from Lisbon. The carnival had a main stage with a DJ and a lot of different trucks for drinks and food. The whole city was crowded with people who came just for the occasion and saw all the different carnival floats; there were a ton of them! I had a great time, saw some amazing costumes and only got back home around 6 am!
- How was the academic environment at your host university different from Thomas More?
The academic environment was very different from Thomas More. First my university was only one small building, it wasn’t a big campus. Second, most of my teachers were always late and with no notice! As I mentioned already, people are quite laid back here and not under any pressure whatsoever. I was only with other Erasmus students in class which didn’t allow me to meet Portuguese students. But even when we tried to get to know some of them, they weren’t very welcoming. Overall, the content of the classes was the same as what I studied in Belgium, but I enjoyed discovering aspects of communication from a different perspective.
- What challenges did you face while on Erasmus, and how did you overcome them?
The main challenge I can think of is that I had to learn to get out of my comfort zone. I usually stick to my routine and have a hard time trying new things. Coming to Lisbon helped and taught me to relax and have new experiences. I realise now that if I had said no to all to activities, last minute trip, or late nights, I would ever never met the people I’m friends with today. Through all these experiences our bond grew stronger and I have the most amazing memories now.
- How did this experience help you grow personally and academically?
This Erasmus experience in Lisbon has transformed me personally and academically. I learned to slow down, embrace spontaneity, and enjoy life’s small moments, reducing stress from my fast-paced life in Brussels. Academically, adapting to a more laid-back educational environment taught me flexibility and independence, while interacting with diverse Erasmus students broadened my global perspective. This journey has made me more adaptable, open-minded, and appreciative of different cultures and lifestyles.
- Looking back, what is your most cherished memory from your Erasmus experience?
I don’t have a precise memory I’ll cherish, but to be honest any moments with my friends. I know I’m going to miss them a lot, not being able to see them every day and just being a phone call away
- What will you miss the most in Belgium after your Erasmus experience?
I think what I will miss the most is the pace of life here and the little things that made my day better. Being stress-free every day has been a blessing. Hanging out with my friends all the time and always try new things, grab a drink, or eat some food together. I think I’ll miss my life here. I don’t think I would want this Erasmus experience to last for years but I definitely wouldn’t say no to a few more months, I’m not ready to say goodbye.
- Do you have any tips or advice for future students considering Erasmus?
For future Erasmus students, my advice is to embrace the adventure fully. Say yes to new experiences and step out of your comfort zone. Engage with the local culture, make an effort to meet people from different backgrounds, and be open to spontaneity. Balancing studies and exploration will
