In September 2014, after finishing high school, I started university. I chose to study Business Management at the University of Eastern Piedmont (UniUPO) in Alessandria, Italy.

At first, I was commuting from my hometown every day, either driving or taking the train from Casale. However, with the arrival of winter, the long commute became not only uncomfortable but also unsafe. Gasoline was expensive, and the car wasn’t the most reliable. After some discussion, my mom and I decided it would be better for me to move closer to the university. In February 2015, I moved into Casa Sappa, a former convent that had been transformed into a residence for students and teachers.

At Casa Sappa, I shared a room with Katrina, a Slovakian student who was participating in an Erasmus exchange program. Thanks to Katrina, I discovered what Erasmus was and how it worked. We quickly became great friends, and we spent an amazing semester together. She also helped me tremendously because, at the time, my English was very poor — it had always been my weakest subject.

With Katrina’s encouragement, I decided to work as an au pair in Ireland during the summer of 2015. One of her friends had done the same, and Katrina helped me find and communicate with an Irish host family. Spending the summer immersed in an English-speaking environment helped me improve my language skills much more than any traditional course could have.

Before this, right after high school, I had already worked 30 days at the British School in my city. In exchange for my work, I received a 6-month English course with lessons twice a week. It was a good opportunity, but my real breakthrough came while living in Ireland.

Learning English was something I knew was essential — not only because my boyfriend at the time insisted on its importance for my future career, but also because deep down, I had always dreamed of studying abroad. However, until then, my English level and the high costs had made it impossible.

After my summer in Ireland, I felt more confident. In May 2015, I finally applied for the Erasmus+ program. My first choice was Germany — specifically Trier University of Applied Sciences (Hochschule Trier) — because it would look good on my CV, wasn’t too far from home, and would allow me to practice both English and German. Even though I was scared, I was thrilled when I found out I had been accepted!

Luckily, a classmate of mine, Nicolò, was also accepted. We helped each other with all the paperwork, choosing the same classes and eventually living in the same student residence: Cusanushaus Trier, room 313. The residence was just two bus stops from the university and a 20-minute walk to the city’s beautiful main square.

I decided to move to Trier a little earlier than the start of the semester to settle in. So, on Monday, March 14th, 2016, I left Italy. I flew from Milan Malpensa Airport at 7:20 AM and arrived in Luxembourg at 8:35 AM. From there, I took a train to Trier and then a bus to the Cusanushaus.

When I arrived, the manager showed me my room — a single bedroom with an en-suite bathroom. At first, I didn’t like it; I felt very alone. But soon I realized that most of my future friends lived just in the same floor or building, and I quickly started to feel comfortable.

Preparing for Erasmus wasn’t just about moving abroad. It also involved carefully selecting my courses to match my Italian curriculum. In the end, I enrolled in three classes, plus a German language course. Living costs were affordable too — my room cost only 215€ per month, which felt like winning the lottery!

Looking back, the decision to apply for the Erasmus program completely changed my life. It taught me independence, boosted my English skills, gave me international experience, and opened new opportunities for my future career.

And it all started thanks to one inspiring roommate who opened the Erasmus door for me.

14th March 2016 a new chapter

( My room in Cusanushaus dormitory, Trier )

First week from 14.03 to 21.03

After months of preparation and excitement, the day finally arrived: On March 14th, 2016, I left Italy early in the morning, flying from Milan Malpensa Airport at 7:20 AM and arriving in Luxembourg at 8:35 AM. From there, I took a train to Trier, my new home for the Erasmus semester, and then a bus to the Cusanushaus student residence. When I arrived, my main goal was just to settle in. I picked up my keys, found my room — a small single with a private bathroom — and unpacked my suitcase. Even though at first I felt a little lonely, I reminded myself that this was just the beginning of a big adventure. In the afternoon I went to Hochschule Trier to handle the enrollment paperwork.
I signed documents, received my student ID, and started getting familiar with the campus. The university seemed bigger and busier than what I was used to, and I felt both excited and a little overwhelmed. The day after I decided to explore Trier. I wandered through the city center, visited the famous Porta Nigra, walked around the old Roman streets, and even discovered a few cozy cafes. Trier immediately impressed me with its mix of Roman history and student life — it felt welcoming but also full of character. The following day, I went out to buy groceries and a few essentials to make my new space feel more like home, And in the evening, my adventure was supposed to continue: I had planned to take a late train to Mannheim, where I would catch a night bus to Prague. I had signed up for a three-day trip with Erasmus Nation and was supposed to meet my Slovakian friend Katrina there. We were both so excited! Unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned.
At the station in Trier, I got on the wrong side of the train platform and ended up traveling in the opposite direction. By the time I realized the mistake, it was too late. I missed my connection to Mannheim, missed the bus to Prague… and missed my chance to meet up with Katrina. I went back to my dorm, heartbroken, and spent the night crying, feeling completely alone in a new city. The morning after my missed trip to Prague, I still felt a bit lost. Trier seemed colder and lonelier than the day before. I knew I had to do something — I couldn’t just sit in my room feeling sorry for myself. So I decided to take a small step: I went back to the university to continue exploring and see if I could meet anyone.
That’s when something unexpected and beautiful happened. On my floor at Cusanushaus, I met Irma, an Albanian girl who also spoke Italian.
She wasn’t an Erasmus student; she had moved to Trier to study German and work. We clicked instantly — it felt so good to speak Italian with someone and to feel a bit less like a stranger in a new place. The following day Irma invited me to join her and her friends for dinner at a cozy place called Kartoffel Restaurant Kiste, a typical German restaurant famous for its potato dishes. It was exactly what I needed: good food, laughter, and the beginning of new friendships with the people from the dorm.

Second week from 21.03 to the 26.03

March 21st was the first real day I felt like I belonged. Irma and I decided to go on a day trip to Saarburg, a charming small town not far from Trier.
We spent the day wandering through the colorful streets, visiting the castle ruins, and admiring the waterfall right in the middle of the town.
We took pictures, laughed a lot, and shared stories about our different countries and experiences. For the first time since arriving, I didn’t feel alone anymore. Trier was slowly starting to feel like home.

As the days went by, more and more students arrived at Cusanushaus to start the second semester. The building, once so quiet, was now full of energy and laughter. We would meet new people almost every day, usually by simply hanging out in the shared kitchen. That’s where I met Mario, a cheerful and kind guy from Spain. We instantly clicked, and soon our little group was growing. One evening, we all decided to go clubbing at Club 11 — my first night out in Trier. It felt good to dance, to laugh, and to begin building a new life in a new city. But deep down, something felt off. I hadn’t been feeling well lately — I was constantly hungry and, more worryingly, I realized that my period was late. At first, I told myself it was probably just the stress of moving to a new country, but a small voice inside me wouldn’t quiet down. That evening after clubbing on the way back home, while chatting with Irma, I finally opened up to her. I told her about the delay, my constant tiredness, my worries. Irma, always sweet and supportive, urged me to take a pregnancy test — just to be sure. I’ll never forget that moment. It was morning after I went to the pharmacy to buy it,I was alone in my bedroom . On the 23rd of March the test was positive. Shock hit me like a wave. I felt paralyzed, unable to think, unsure of how to even breathe. I was far from home, from my family, just beginning a journey I had dreamed about for so long — and now everything was upside down, I started to cry. Irma was incredible. She stayed by my side through it all, offering support, advice, and above all, kindness. I truly don’t know what I would have done without her. When I called my boyfriend to tell him, he was just as stunned as I was. After many emotional conversations, we made the heartbreaking decision to have an abortion. It wasn’t easy — nothing about it was — but deep down, we knew it was the right choice for where we were in life. Before facing everything, there was one thing already planned: a small escape to Paris — a trip we had booked weeks earlier, full of excitement and hope. Little did I know, that trip to Paris would become much more than just a city break. It would be a pause, a breath, before stepping into one of the hardest and most defining moments of my life.

First time in Paris easter 2016

I moved to Trier, Germany on March 14th, 2016, for my first Erasmus+ program. Just two weeks after settling in, Easter was approaching, and I wasn’t quite ready to spend the holiday alone in a new country. I couldn’t afford a flight back home yet, and everything still felt so unfamiliar. So, my boyfriend at the time and I decided to meet up in Paris for Easter weekend. It wasn’t too far from Trier, and I had never been to Paris before, so it felt like the perfect excuse to explore somewhere new.

DAY 1 – Saturday 26.03.2016

I woke up early and caught the 7:32 AM train from Trier, with a quick change in Saarbrücken at 8:41 AM, and arrived at Paris Est around 10:54 AM. It turned out to be a really easy and straightforward journey. My boyfriend met me at the train station, and from there we headed to the hotel, checked in, and dropped off our luggage before heading out to explore Paris.

We started at the Louvre, just admiring the museum from the outside, then took a boat tour along the Seine River — even though the weather was quite cloudy, it still felt special. Later, we visited Notre-Dame and stepped inside the cathedral, which was beautiful and moving. For dinner, I honestly can’t remember the restaurant, but I do remember ending the night with a visit to Montmartre. Seeing it lit up at night was the perfect way to wrap up our first day in Paris.

DAY 2 – Sunday 27.03.2016

The next morning, we visited the Musée d’Orsay, and I absolutely loved it. The art, the atmosphere, and even just being inside such a stunning building made it a highlight of the trip for me. After that, we stopped by the Arc de Triomphe, and in the afternoon, we made our way to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Despite the lines and the typical Paris crowds, the view from the top was totally worth it — it was such an unforgettable experience, seeing the city stretch out in every direction.

DAY 3 – Monday 28.03.2016

On our last day, we visited Galeries Lafayette, soaking in the beautiful architecture and maybe doing a little window shopping. After that, we went to see the Tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte — actually stepping inside and seeing the grand space was really impressive. Later, we returned to the Eiffel Tower, this time taking a few photos from Champ de Mars, capturing the classic Paris postcard moment. We also passed by the Moulin Rouge and spent some time wandering around Montmartre during the day, which had a totally different vibe compared to our nighttime visit. After all that walking, we eventually headed back to the hotel. I honestly can’t remember where we had dinner that evening, but the day itself was full and unforgettable.

DAY 4 – Tuesday 29.03.2016

On our final morning in Paris, I think my boyfriend had to leave early, and I ended up sleeping in a bit. I took it slow, had a bit of sushi for lunch, and then made my way back to Gare de l’Est to catch the train. I retraced my steps with a change in Saarbrücken, and by the afternoon, I was back in Trier. Just like that, my first visit to Paris came to an end — short but packed with beautiful sights and unforgettable firsts.

Back in Trier

Third week from 29.03 to the 04.04

( Me Irma and the American girls in Metz, France )

On April 2nd, a group of us from Cusanushaus decided to go on a day trip together. Our main destination was Metz in France, but since we had to change trains in Luxembourg, we took the opportunity to spend the morning exploring the city. We arrived in Luxembourg early and wandered through its charming streets. The city was beautiful, with its mix of old fortifications, elegant squares, and scenic views over the deep valleys. We walked around the old town, admired the Grand Ducal Palace, and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere before heading back to the train station. After our short but lovely visit, we continued our journey to Metz. The day in Metz was amazing — the weather was nice, and the city had a very cozy and lively vibe. We visited the impressive Metz Cathedral, famous for its stunning stained-glass windows, and we spent the afternoon strolling through the historic center, stopping for coffee and snacks along the way. It was such a fun and relaxed day, full of laughter and good memories with friends.

Fourth week from 04.04 to 11.04

Monday, April 4th just after returning from Paris I found myself plunged back into reality. I knew I had no more time to lose. Since I had been pregnant since February, everything needed to happen quickly. I started searching for information, trying to understand how to arrange an abortion as soon as possible. It was overwhelming and confusing, especially being in a foreign country, but once again, Irma was my rock. She helped me every step of the way booking appointments, filling out forms, and translating whenever I needed. At the same time, life was continuing around me. That week also marked the beginning of classes at the university. I remember walking through the campus feeling both excited and terrified. It was meant to be the start of a new chapter — studying abroad, meeting people, exploring but instead, I was carrying the heaviest burden of my life. Friday, April 8th finally arrived — the day of the procedure. I woke up early, nerves keeping me from even touching breakfast, and caught the train to Saarbrücken by myself. Sitting by the window, I watched the world pass by in a blur, feeling numb and alone. The clinic visit was fast but emotionally crushing. It was one of those moments when you feel like you’re floating outside your own body, just trying to get through it. After everything was over, I found myself walking through the streets of Saarbrücken, unsure what to do with myself. I wasn’t ready to return to Trier yet. I needed a distraction, something simple to keep my mind from collapsing — so I wandered into some shops, letting the normal, everyday life of people around me dull the ache inside and so I went to Primark to do shopping. Later that afternoon, I caught the train back home.
I arrived in Trier late in the evening, completely drained. Back at Cusanushaus, I walked quietly through the familiar corridors, went straight to my room, and collapsed into bed. There, wrapped up in the safety of my small, temporary world, I finally let myself breathe. This wasn’t how I pictured my Erasmus adventure beginning. But in a strange way, it felt like a test of resilience. I had survived something unimaginable and somehow, deep inside, a tiny spark of strength started to grow.

On April 9th, I joined a day trip to Saarbrücken organized by our German buddy. We were a small group: Nicolo, two South Korean girls, two Chinese girls, and myself. We spent the morning exploring the city center, visiting places like Ludwigskirche and St. Johanner Markt, and walking along the Saar River. After lunch at a local restaurant, we continued to explore the city, taking in the relaxed vibe and getting to know each other better. It was a simple but enjoyable day, a good opportunity to bond outside of university life before heading back to Trier in the evening.

Fifth week from the 11.04 to 18.04

As the weeks went by, things started to get better. I was becoming more familiar with the university and the people around me, and life in Trier was starting to feel more natural. On Saturday, Irma and I organized a day trip to Mainz. I invited my Asian classmates from university, and she brought along a Turkish girl who was also learning German with her. We spent the day exploring the city, walking through the old town, visiting the Mainz Cathedral, and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere along the Rhine River. It was a fun, easy-going day and a nice way to build friendships outside of our usual routines.

Sixth week from 18.04 to 25.04

( Strasbourg old town, France )

After a packed week of lectures and student life, Friday, April 22nd brought a welcome change of pace—my boyfriend came to visit me in Trier. He’d rented a cozy little place for the weekend (I wish I could remember the name!), and I joined him there for a much-needed break from the dorm routine. That evening, we had dinner at Kartoffel Kiste, a charming restaurant tucked away in the heart of the city. The food was hearty and comforting, the atmosphere warm and welcoming—by the end of the night, it had officially become my favorite spot in Trier. Saturday was dedicated to exploring. Even though the spring weather was more grey than golden cloudy and drizzly we didn’t let it stop us. We had breakfast in town, then wandered through Trier’s winding streets with umbrellas in hand, taking in the rich history around every corner. We visited the grand old churches and, of course, stopped by the iconic Porta Nigra. The rain actually added a kind of peaceful, poetic charm to everything. The city felt quieter, more intimate. Then came Sunday, April 24th—spontaneous adventure day. My boyfriend had rented a car, and we set off to Strasbourg with a few of my Erasmus friends. It was just a one-day trip, but it felt like a mini holiday. We strolled through the colorful old town, treated ourselves to ice cream at Amorino, and even visited the European Parliament building. It was one of those easy, joy-filled days where everything flows. That night, we returned to Trier and spent our last evening together before he had to head back. On Monday morning, I accompanied him to the airport. It was just a weekend, but it felt calm, and of small but lasting memories.

Seventh week 25.04 to 02.05

Not every week abroad is packed with travel or big plans—some weeks are slower, but just as meaningful. This one was all about settling into the flow: a balance of lectures, study sessions, and the start of something new socially. It all started with a party—just a typical Erasmus night, or so I thought. But that evening turned out to be a small turning point. Until then, most of my social life revolved around the dormitory group. I hadn’t really connected much with my classmates, especially the Asian students in my program. If anything, I had gotten closer with Nicolo, but that was about it. But at the party, I found myself hanging out with some French students from the university—people from other classes, not ones I usually saw during the day. We started talking, laughing, and from there, plans just started happening naturally. Over the next few days, I went out more with this group—nothing extravagant, just casual nights out, shared meals, new conversations. It felt like a quiet shift. I was still juggling studies and uni life, but there was a new layer forming—one that made this Erasmus experience feel a bit more real, more connected to the local student life. All in all, it was a chill week—classes, studying, and a growing sense that I was beginning to find my place here, step by step.

Eight week 02.05 to 09.05

Socially, things stayed pretty mellow too. A few casual hangouts here and there, but nothing big. It felt like everyone was catching their breath. Still, I noticed how the friendships I’d started to build with French students the week before were beginning to take root—more casual chats, small invitations, familiar faces becoming regular ones. It wasn’t a standout week in terms of events, but it was part of the bigger picture—one of those quiet chapters that makes the exciting ones even more special.

Ninth week 09.05 to 12.05

( Kölner Dom by the inside, Cologne )

On Tuesday, we headed to Cologne, excited for a spontaneous day of exploration. Our first stop was picking up our interrail passes, which was the start of our travel adventure. Once we had everything sorted, we made our way to the stunning Kölner Dom, the city’s iconic cathedral. Its towering, gothic architecture was absolutely breathtaking. We spent time wandering through its vast interior, admiring the intricate details and the grand scale of it all—it definitely left a lasting impression. After soaking in the beauty of the cathedral, we headed to a cozy Asian restaurant for lunch. It was the perfect place to refuel before continuing our day. Once we were recharged, we visited the Deutsches Museum, where we explored exhibits ranging from historical artifacts to modern innovations. We got lost in the displays for a few hours, and it was a great way to learn more about Germany’s history and technological advancements. By the evening, we were back in Trier, feeling accomplished after a full and fun day. Though it was a quick trip, the spontaneity of it made the experience even more exciting. With our interrail passes in hand, we were already looking forward to more adventures ahead.

Interrail Pass, May 2016

Germany – Czech Republic – Austria

One of the most enriching aspects of my Erasmus experience in Trier was the constant interaction with students from all corners of the globe. Being immersed in this vibrant international community, where each person brought their own unique background and perspectives, was incredibly stimulating. It was eye-opening to see how people from different cultures approached university life and their adventures abroad, which was so different from what I was accustomed to.

Among the many people I met, there were four American girls living in my dormitory who left a lasting impression on me. They were all studying design, and since their schedule didn’t require them to attend classes every day, they made it a priority to travel around Europe as much as possible. They weren’t just focused on their studies; they were determined to experience as much of Europe as they could. Listening to their stories, I felt both inspired and a little envious, as they seemed to be living the dream, ticking off countries from their bucket lists while I was still finding my footing in Trier.

One day, as we chatted in the dormitory kitchen, they brought up something called Interrail — a term I had never heard before. The girls explained that Interrail was a special train pass that allowed you to travel across several countries in Europe with just one ticket. To me, it sounded like the perfect opportunity to explore Europe on a budget. As they excitedly talked about their plans to do a trip together, I couldn’t help but feel drawn to the idea. Although my English was still shaky and I was nervous about understanding everything they said, I knew this was an opportunity I couldn’t miss.

We decided to take the plunge and embark on this European adventure together. A few days before our trip, we all headed to Cologne to purchase our Interrail passes at the train station. Standing there, holding the passes in our hands, it all felt so real — the excitement of visiting new places, the thrill of traveling by train across borders, and the sense of adventure that awaited us.

Our itinerary was ambitious: we planned to travel from Trier to Frankfurt, then onto Nuremberg, Prague, Brno, Vienna, Salzburg, and Munich, before making our way back to Trier — all in just six days. It seemed like a whirlwind schedule, but I was eager for the adventure. For me, there was an additional motivation: in Brno, I would finally reunite with Katrina, my Slovakian friend who had inspired me to take part in the Erasmus program in the first place. I had missed her in Prague, and this trip would give us the chance to catch up.

From May 12th to May 17th, 2016, I joined Ella, Liz, and Devon — three amazing girls from Kansas City — on what would be my first real backpacking trip around Europe. Though we weren’t studying at the same university, we were all living in the same dormitory, and it was one of those lucky moments where new friendships formed effortlessly.

The journey was nothing short of magical. Traveling by train with only our essentials packed in small backpacks, we journeyed from city to city, exploring cobblestone streets, tasting local dishes, and getting lost in the best possible way. Our days were filled with spontaneous adventures and laughter, and though my English was still far from perfect, I quickly realized that communication wasn’t about flawless language — it was about connection. I may have stumbled over words and phrases, but the friendships I made and the experiences I shared were priceless.

What struck me the most about this trip wasn’t just the cities we visited or the sights we saw, but the growth I experienced within myself. I pushed my boundaries, stepped outside my comfort zone, and learned that sometimes it’s okay not to understand every word being spoken as long as you’re open to the experience. I learned that travel wasn’t just about ticking off destinations on a map, but about embracing the unknown, building memories with new friends, and discovering parts of yourself that you didn’t even know existed.

The journey also gave me the confidence to take on more challenges, whether it was communicating in a second language or navigating through unfamiliar places. It was a reminder that we are all capable of more than we think, and sometimes, all it takes is a little push to start an adventure that changes everything.

DAY 1 – Thursday 12.05.2016

( Night at: Art Hole Hostel, Prague )

The adventure began early in the morning — too early, in fact. I woke up at 3 AM, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. It was the first leg of our journey, and we were about to embark on a whirlwind tour across Europe. By 4 AM, we were on our way to the Trier train station, eager to catch our first bus to Frankfurt, the starting point of our Interrail adventure. The bus ride was long, but the excitement kept us energized. As soon as we arrived in Frankfurt, we quickly switched trains to head towards Nuremberg, a city that promised both historical charm and beautiful architecture. After a few hours, we finally pulled into Nuremberg around 10 AM, ready to explore. Our first stop was the Albrecht Dürer House, the former home of one of the most famous German Renaissance artists. The museum was a fascinating glimpse into his life and work, and it set the tone for the day. Next, we headed to St. Lorenz Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, where the soaring ceilings and intricate stained glass windows left us in awe. From there, we strolled over to the Frauenkirche, a beautiful church located in the city’s central square. We couldn’t spend the entire day sightseeing without taking a break, so we stopped for lunch in the heart of the city. It was the perfect opportunity to try some local dishes, and the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant was the perfect respite from all the walking. By 6:40 PM, it was time to head back to the train station to continue our journey. We caught the bus to Prague, and after a few more hours of travel, we finally arrived at 10:18 PM. Exhausted but happy, we headed straight to our hostel and collapsed into bed, knowing that the next leg of our adventure would be just as exciting as the first.

DAY 2 – Friday 13.05.2016

( Night at : Art Hole Hostel, Prague )

We woke up at 9 AM, ready to dive into the heart of Prague. After a quick breakfast, we headed out to explore the Old Town. The narrow, cobbled streets were filled with history, and the charm of the city was impossible to ignore. As we wandered, we made our way up to Prague Castle, where the views over the city were nothing short of breathtaking. The castle itself was a mix of architectural styles, and each corner revealed something new and fascinating. After exploring the castle, we made our way back to the Old Town, strolling across the iconic Charles Bridge. The bridge, lined with statues of saints, was crowded with tourists and street artists, but it still held a magical charm. Along the way, we couldn’t resist stopping to try a Trdelnik ice cream—a delicious twist on the traditional Czech pastry, filled with ice cream and topped with sugary goodness. It was as amazing as it sounds! Once we’d indulged in the sweet treat, we continued our walk back to the hostel. We were feeling a bit worn out from the day’s adventures, so we decided to freshen up and get ready for dinner. For the evening, we had reservations at a typical Czech restaurant, and I was excited to try something new. I ordered goulash, a traditional Czech dish, and it was absolutely delicious—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. After a satisfying dinner, we decided to check out the nightlife and headed to Deja Vu, a popular club in the city. The atmosphere was vibrant, with music and lights creating the perfect party vibe. But by the time we reached the club, the fatigue from the long day started to set in, and we realized we were much more in the mood for rest than dancing. So, we called it a night and headed back to the hostel early, ready to recharge for the adventures that awaited us the next day.

DAY 3 – Saturday 14.05.2016

( Night at: Seven Vienna, Vienna )

We started the day bright and early, waking up at 8 AM and having a quick breakfast before heading out. At 9:52 AM, we caught the train to Brno, a city that had been on our travel list for some time. We arrived at 12:30 PM, and the first thing we did was meet up with Katrina, my dear Slovakian friend. We had lived together in Alessandria during my first year of university, and it was so exciting to catch up with her in her own hometown. Katrina was the perfect tour guide. She showed us around the charming streets of Brno, and we enjoyed lunch together in the lively city square. Afterward, we visited Špilberk Castle, a historic fortress offering stunning views of the city. Brno is a small but vibrant city, and we made the most of our time there. By 5:30 PM, we were ready to move on, so we hopped on a train once again, this time heading for Vienna. We arrived in Vienna around 7 PM, and after checking in at the hostel and freshening up with a quick shower, we were ready to explore the city some more. For dinner, we decided to try Centimeters Restaurant, known for its hearty portions and great atmosphere. We had a delicious meal, savoring every bite, and then called it a night, ready to rest and prepare for the exciting adventures awaiting us in Vienna the next day.

DAY 4 – Sunday 15.05.2016

( Night at: Seven Vienna, Vienna )

We woke up early, around 9 AM, eager to explore Vienna. We started the day by walking around the museum quarter, taking in the impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Our first stop was the Kunsthistorisches Museum, a stunning art museum housing an incredible collection of works by masters like Vermeer and Rembrandt. From there, we made our way to the Hofburg Imperial Palace, a magnificent landmark that has stood for centuries as a symbol of Austria’s imperial past. Next, we strolled over to the Rathaus, Vienna’s iconic City Hall, where we admired its grand Gothic design and picturesque surroundings. To cap off the cultural exploration, we visited the MUMOK Museum, a contemporary art museum showcasing a fascinating collection of modern art. We spent the entire day soaking in as much of Vienna as we could. For lunch, we had to get a bit creative as most restaurants in the area were quite expensive. We ended up finding a little cheap spot that was simple but satisfying. As evening fell, we were ready for some hearty food, so we went to a Mexican restaurant near our hostel. The food was delicious and a welcome change from the European cuisine we’d been enjoying. By the end of the day, we were exhausted but happy, so we decided to go to bed early, ready to take on the next adventure.

DAY 5 – Monday 16.05.2016

( Night at: Wombats City Hostel, Munic )

On our final morning in Vienna, we woke up eager to visit the last few places we hadn’t yet explored. We started the day by heading to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a breathtaking Gothic masterpiece in the heart of the city. The interior was even more impressive than I had imagined, with its intricate details and towering spires. After that, we made our way to the Mozart House, where the legendary composer once lived. It was fascinating to see the personal items and exhibits that gave insight into his life and music. By 10:30 AM, we were packed up and ready to leave, so we caught the train to Salzburg. We arrived around 1 PM, and even though it was raining, I immediately fell in love with the city. Salzburg is charming, with its quaint streets and stunning Alpine backdrop. We started our visit by exploring the Mirabell Palace, known for its beautifully landscaped gardens and stunning views of the city. Next, we headed to Hellbrunn Palace, famous for its playful trick fountains, which were fun to explore despite the rain. Then we made our way up to Hohensalzburg Castle, perched high above the city, offering panoramic views and a rich history that made the climb worth it. By 7 PM, it was time to continue our journey, so we hopped on the train to Munich, arriving at 8:30 PM. After checking in to our hostel, we spent the evening unwinding in the hostel’s pub, enjoying drinks, laughter, and good company to end a long but fulfilling day.

DAY 6 – Tuesday 17.05.2016

We started our last day in Munich early, waking up at 8 AM to have a hearty breakfast at the hostel. After fueling up, we set off to explore the city. Our first stop was the magnificent Nymphenburg Palace, with its grand architecture and beautiful gardens. From there, we made our way to the Englische Garten, one of the largest urban parks in the world. The peaceful greenery was perfect for a relaxing stroll, and we took our time soaking in the atmosphere. Next, we visited Marienplatz, the central square of Munich, where we admired the New Town Hall and the famous Glockenspiel. We took a break for lunch at one of the lovely parks nearby, enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Around 5:45 PM, we caught the train to Saarbrücken using our Interrail pass, which allowed us to travel freely across Europe. From Saarbrücken, we continued our journey to Trier using our student card, which gave us free transport within the Rheinland-Pfalz region. We arrived in Trier quite late, around midnight, and made our way back to the Student House, where we immediately went to sleep, reflecting on our incredible journey through Europe.

Back in Trier

Tenth week from 18.05 to 23.05

Tuesday night I got back from my Interrail trip. On the 18th of May, I spent the day studying and packing, and then at 18:10 I flew from Frankfurt-Hahn Airport to Milan Bergamo Airport, arriving at 19:25. From there, I took a bus to Milano Centrale and then a train to Alessandria, where I met up with my housemates from the first semester, when we were all living together there. I stayed the night and finally got some sleep.

The next morning, Thursday, we had colazione together, which was really nice and then went to the university to take an exam the whole reason I had travelled back to Italy and spent money on a flight. Unfortunately, it was an exam I hadn’t passed the first year, and I didn’t pass it this time either. Still, I stayed another night, and we had a lovely catch-up.

On Friday, I said goodbye to my housemates, and my mum came to pick me up in Alessandria. We went to Cereseto or maybe I took the train to Casale Monferrato, I honestly don’t remember, anyway I spent a bit of time home and then that evening, I went out with friends.

The following day, I stayed at home with my family and in the evening I went out for dinner with my boyfriend and slept at his place. On Sunday, we went to the sea at Santa Margherita Ligure, where we had a lovely summer lunch. Later, he drove me back to my mum’s house in the evening.

It was a very stressful few days, but it was also really nice to go back home.

Eleventh week from the 23.05 to 30.05

( View of the city from the University )

On Monday, my mum dropped me off at the station in Vercelli, and I took the train to Milan. From there, I caught a bus to Milan Bergamo Airport to begin my journey back to Trier. My flight left at 16:25 and landed at Frankfurt-Hahn Airport at 17:45, and from there I took a FlixBus back to Trier.

For the rest of May, life settled into a routine again. I spent most of my time with the people in the dorm, Cusanushaus, playing sports in the garden, going to university classes, and constantly socialising. There was always something going on, with birthday celebrations in the dorm, spontaneous gatherings, and of course nights out. We often went to other dorms to party and then headed into the city for clubbing.

Wednesday was “university night,” but honestly the parties did not stop there. Fridays and Saturdays were a given, and sometimes even Thursdays turned into nights out too.

By June, the weather finally started to improve, even if only on and off, and our social circle began to shift a bit. We started spending more time with the French girls, not just the Americans, who were often away travelling around Europe. At the same time, my friend Nicolò went from dating an American girl to a French one, which naturally mixed the groups even more. Little by little, our routines and friendships evolved, and everything felt a bit more dynamic again.

Twelve week 30.06 to 06.06

This week is a bit harder to summarise because nothing really stood out in a specific way, but at the same time, it was very typical Erasmus life.

Most of my days were spent going to university and trying to stay on top of things, although motivation definitely came and went. Outside of classes, everything revolved around social life as usual. Even without specific plans, it was never a quiet week.

In the evenings, we mostly went out—either to bars in Trier or straight to clubbing with friends. It had become a routine by this point: a mix of studying during the day and going out at night, with very little in between.

It wasn’t a week full of highlights, but more of a continuation of the Erasmus rhythm I had fallen into studies, socialising, and a constant sense that something was always happening somewhere.

Thirteen week 06.06 to 13.06

On the 8th of June, there was the summer festival at the university in Trier. We spent the whole day outside playing beer pong and other games, and, unsurprisingly, got very drunk. That was also when I really started socialising more with the French group at university, along with Nicolò.

Since classes were basically finished by then, we were going out all the time. It felt like there was always a reason to be out, especially because the FIFA World Cup was on, so watching matches at bars became part of our routine. June quickly turned into a mix of long nights, football, and new friendships.

Fourteen week 13.06 to 20.06

The days after that started to blur together a bit. I didn’t keep notes, and everything mixed into the same rhythm of late nights, slow mornings, and spontaneous plans. Life in Trier had settled into something easy and familiar.

Most days started slowly, talking about the night before and making loose plans for the day. Sometimes we would end up by the river, other times just staying around the dorm, chatting, and enjoying the rare moments of good weather.

Evenings were never really planned, but they always turned into something. We would meet in someone’s room, or outside, and then eventually make our way into the city. Bars and nightclubs were always full, and it felt like the whole city was out watching matches together.

What I remember most from that time isn’t specific events, but the feeling of it all—being surrounded by people from different countries, speaking a mix of languages, and knowing that this routine wouldn’t last forever. It was chaotic, a bit messy, but also one of the best parts of the whole experience.

Fifteen 20.06 to 27.06

( All together doing a wine tasting at Vinothek der Saar, Saarburg )

On Monday, the summer festival in Trier was in full swing. It’s basically the city’s festival, with markets and food trucks all along the river. The atmosphere was amazing, and we ended up going out every night.

On Wednesday, we went to Luxembourg City for the National Day celebrations and the was a big open air night club in the main square. Our friend Jess is from there, so we first went to her family home and met her parents, which made the whole experience feel much more personal. Later that evening, we went out to celebrate with her and other people being a big group. It turned out to be such a fun night, and then Jess drove back to Trier in the evening and I went back to the dormitory.

By Friday, the festival in Trier was still going on, so in the late afternoon I went there with Irma to walk around and take it all in again. It felt like the whole city was still buzzing.

On Saturday, we organized a day trip to Saarburg with Nicolò, Irma, some other people from the dorm, and the American girls. It ended up being one of my favourite days. The town was beautiful, and we spent the day doing a wine tasting, walking around the village, and hiking up to a viewpoint. Everything felt so green and lively, completely different from when I had visited with Irma back in March, when everything was grey and had more of a winter atmosphere.

Sixteen week 27.06 to 04.07

The following week was a bit less eventful, or at least less memorable. I didn’t keep any notes, but I remember falling into a balance between going out and starting to study, since exams were getting closer. Days were a mix of trying to be productive and then rewarding ourselves in the evenings.

Even though exam season had started, we still found plenty of excuses to go out. Nights in Trier didn’t really slow down, they just became slightly more justified. There was always that feeling of “we should probably stay in tonight,” which almost never actually happened.

It was that strange Erasmus phase where you know responsibilities are coming, but you are not quite ready to give up the lifestyle you have built.

Seventeen week 04.07 to 11.07

On 4th July, I flew from Frankfurt-Hahn Airport to Milan Bergamo Airport with Ryanair, leaving at 17:40 and landing at 18:10. My mum picked me up from the airport and we went home. I was back again mainly to try to retake my Maths exam, which I hadn’t passed in my first year.

The next day I had an exam in Alessandria. After that, I went for sushi with Martina and Stacy, then met my housemates for a coffee. Later I went to Casale Monferrato, and in the evening I had dinner with my boyfriend before heading back to my mum’s house.

On Wednesday, I stayed at home for most of the morning. Later, my mum took me to Vercelli, where I caught the train to Milano Centrale, then a bus to the airport. At 15:40 I flew from Milan Bergamo Airport back to Frankfurt-Hahn Airport. I usually flew with Ryanair, which was the only airline operating this route, and I actually liked it because from Frankfurt-Hahn there was a direct FlixBus connection back to Trier, which made everything quite convenient.

The following evening, on Thursday, Germany were playing in the semi-final of the UEFA Euro 2016. We went out to watch the match and celebrate, and it felt like the whole city was outside together, watching and cheering.

On Saturday, there was the Zurlauben festival in Trier, with food stalls, kiosks everywhere, and fireworks in the evening. The city still felt like it was in full summer celebration mode, and we made the most of it again.

Eighteen week 11.07 to 18.07

( At the Mosel for the bbq of my birthday )

So this week was my birthday week, but also, unfortunately, the week of all three exams.

It started on Monday with my first exam in Germany, which was in English. Then on Tuesday, my birthday on the 12th, I had another exam. It was definitely not the most relaxing way to spend a birthday.

By Friday, I had finally finished all my exams. To celebrate, I went on a day trip to Burg Eltz with Irma and one of her Albanian friends that comes to Germany to visit her. It was such a nice day I really loved it. The weather was perfect, and even though it wasn’t the easiest place to reach by public transport, it was absolutely worth it in the end.

On Saturday, I organised a birthday celebration by the river Mosel. We had a barbecue with everyone, which turned out really nicely, and Irma and Nicolò helped a lot with the planning. Later that night, we went clubbing with all my friends. It was a really fun way to end the week, and I remember it being a very intense night, with a lot of partying and energy the kind you only really get during Erasmus life.

Nineteen week 18.07 to 25.07

On Monday, we went on a trip to a lake in Luxembourg City with Jess and the French girls. Since Jess is from Luxembourg, she had a car and drove us there. The lake, Lac d’Echternach, was really beautiful. We spent the whole day there just relaxing, talking, and enjoying the weather.

On Tuesday, we did another day trip, this time to Stuttgart with the French girls. We explored the city, walked around, and then headed back to Trier in the evening.

The rest of the week was much quieter. I spent most of it chilling and focusing on the last exams, including possibly the German test if i remember well. At the same time, we started planning one last trip together before everyone would start saying goodbye.

It was clear by then that the semester was coming to an end. Some people still had exams, but for most of us, things were slowly wrapping up. It felt a bit strange knowing our time there was almost over.

Twenty week 25.07 to 1.08

( Us in Hamburg, Germany )

During my Erasmus in Trier, we also decided to do a bigger trip together to Hamburg. It was me, Irma, the girls from my dorm that I had become friends with from the beginning, and the three French girls, Tiphaine, Lindsay, and Pauline. By that point, we had all spent so much time together that travelling as a group felt completely natural.

We took the journey north with a couple of stops along the way, which made the trip feel more like an adventure than just getting from one city to another. The travel itself was long, but it became part of the experience—talking, laughing, and already feeling like the trip had started before we even arrived.

Once we got to Hamburg, the city felt completely different from Trier. It was bigger, busier, and more urban, with a different kind of energy that we all immediately noticed. We spent our time exploring, walking along the water, discovering new neighbourhoods, and just enjoying being somewhere new together.

What made the trip special wasn’t only the city itself, but the group. We were a mix of friendships that had slowly formed over the semester, and this felt like one of those moments where everything came together. There was a lot of laughter, spontaneous plans, and that familiar Erasmus feeling of living in the moment.

At the same time, there was also an unspoken awareness that this could be one of the last times we would all be together like this. Even though a strong bond had formed between us, the end of the semester was approaching. After this trip, I would go back to Italy, and in September I would already be starting another Erasmus in Portugal. It made everything feel a bit more meaningful, like we were trying to hold on to the present just a little longer.

Looking back, the trip to Hamburg wasn’t just another weekend away it felt like a small ending and a transition at the same time.

DAY 1 – Monday 25.07.2026

( Night at: Wira Guesthouse, Hamburg )

On Monday 25th of July, we left for Hamburg. Lindsay, who is from Dijon, was the only one with a car and kindly offered to drive us. We split the cost of the petrol, which made the whole trip possible and a lot more flexible.

Our first stop was Münster. We visited the St Paul’s Cathedral, walked around the city, and explored a bit before continuing the journey north.

After that, Lindsay kept driving until we reached Hamburg. We checked into our accommodation, dropped our things, and then went out for dinner and a beer. Later in the evening, we started exploring the city by night, which already gave us a first impression of Hamburg’s atmosphere and energy.

DAY 2 – Tuesday 26.07

( Night at: Wira Guesthouse, Hamburg )

In the morning, we went to the lake area in Hamburg, near St. Georg, for breakfast. The weather was really nice and warm, which made it a perfect slow start to the day.

After that, we headed into the city centre and spent the day walking around and exploring the main parts of Hamburg. We didn’t really follow a plan, just wandered through different streets, taking in the atmosphere and discovering the city bit by bit.

Later in the afternoon, we went back to the hostel to get ready and then went out again for dinner and drinks. It was a relaxed evening, more about enjoying the city together than anything else.

DAY 3 – Wednesday 27.07

( Night at: Wira Guesthouse, Hamburg )

On the third day, we visited the harbour area in Hamburg, which was one of the highlights of the trip. Walking around the port and seeing the ships and industrial landscape gave the city a very different feel compared to the centre.

After that, we went to the Japanese Garden, which was much calmer and more peaceful. It was a nice contrast to the busy harbour and a good moment to slow down during the trip.

In the evening, we went out again, but more in a relaxed way. We didn’t really go clubbing on those nights, mostly just moving between bars and enjoying the atmosphere of the city.

DAY 4 – Thursday 28.07

On the way back from Hamburg to Trier, we made a stop in Bremen to visit the city for a bit.

We walked around the centre, explored the main streets, and took some time to see the city before continuing the journey home. It was a short stop, but a nice way to break up the long drive and see one more place together before the trip ended.

After that, we got back in the car and continued the journey back to Trier, marking the end of our Hamburg trip.

The following day, I spent most of my time packing and organising the last things before leaving. It felt a bit strange to already be at that point, going through everything and slowly preparing to say goodbye.

On Sunday, we had a final night together at Kartoffel Kiste. It was a simple but really nice evening, just sitting together, eating, and realising that this chapter was coming to an end. After everything we had shared over the semester, it felt like a quiet way to close it all.

Monday the 1st of August was the day I finally left. It was time to say goodbye to Irma, and together with Nicolò, we made our way to Luxembourg Airport.

From there, we flew to Milan Malpensa Airport, where my mum was waiting for us. She picked us up and we all drove in my aunt’s small Fiat 500 until we reached the motorway. There, Nicolò’s mum came to pick him up.

After that, it was just me and my mum driving home. It felt quiet and a bit surreal after everything leaving behind months of Erasmus life, friendships, travel, and routine all at once.

( Me with the German flag signed by all the friends that I’ve made )

AUGUST IN TRIER TO FINISH THE SEMESTER

Looking back at that semester, it wasn’t just about the parties, trips, and everyday Erasmus life in Trier. It was also a period where a lot of intense and personal things happened, some of them difficult, alongside all the good memories.

In the end, I didn’t pass one of my exams, which meant I had to come back again in August to retake it. At first, it felt frustrating to return for that reason, but it also gave me something unexpected a chance to see Irma again, who was still there at the time.

Even if the semester didn’t end exactly as planned, it still felt full, meaningful, and important in its own way. It was a mix of chaos, growth, and experiences that I know I’ll carry with me for a long time.

On Wednesday 24th of August, I flew from Milan Bergamo Airport to Frankfurt-Hahn Airport at 16:25, landing at 17:45. From there, I went back to Trier and stayed with Irma in her room. Even just being back in the city for a short moment felt familiar, like I was stepping into a place that had become part of my everyday life.

The next day, I went to university to retake my exam. It was strange to be back there knowing it was one of the last practical things I had to do in Trier. After the exam, I spent the rest of the day with Irma. We went into the city centre, walked around slowly, took a few pictures, and had one last look at all the places that had become so normal over the months. Cafés, streets, corners of the city all of it felt slightly different knowing it was the end. It wasn’t a big goodbye, just a quiet one, moving through familiar places without really wanting to rush anything.

By then, everything felt like it was slowing down. There was no more routine, no more planning the week around lectures or nights out. Just the awareness that this chapter was almost over.

On Friday, I left Trier for the last time. My flight from Frankfurt-Hahn Airport left at 17:45, and I landed in Milan Bergamo Airport at 19:00.

Sitting on that flight, it felt like everything from the past months was being compressed into memories at once friends, trips, parties, studying, and all the small everyday moments in between. Erasmus in Trier wasn’t just one experience, but a whole mix of lives, routines, and versions of myself all happening in a short period of time.

That flight marked the end of my Erasmus chapter in Trier. Months of experiences, friendships, travel, exams, and everything in between. It didn’t feel completely real that it was over, but at the same time, it felt like it had to end exactly like that quietly, simply, and all at once.