An experience in a different country

A story by: Dora Veha

Country of origin :  Hungary

Country of destination: Ireland

Type of mobility (professional, education, volunteering, non formal training/adult training, youth exchanges): Erasmus+

I would like to improve my English, get lots of experience and travel a lot. In my opinion its very good opportunity to get to know new places and other people. I am happy here.

It wasn’t the first time for me to go abroad. For me, moving to Derry was an opportunity to experience life in the North of Ireland and to grow up professionally but, most of all, to try to continue my career abroad.

I’m staying here because I love the city, people and places. Everybody is so kind and nice. The city is beautiful, there are lots of opportunities to work, study and have fun. The pubs are so lovely, we love Irish beer. The scenery is wonderful, too. I like everything. Of course, the Academy is great.

The mobility brings lots of possibilities, experiences and knowledge to my life. I have gained both professional and personal qualities during my mobility.  I feel that professionally I have gained a better knowledge and understanding of the job and a better understanding of English as I had the opportunity to improve my English and grow in my profession.

I think mobility helps me to feel like a European citizen, because the U.K. is very different from Hungary. In my country I don’t feel like I am in Europe. Everything in Northern Ireland so far is better than in my country.

I feel a bit more like a European citizen because me and my friends lived with an Irish family so we have been exposed to Irish customs and traditions. We ate Irish food and spoke English at home. At first it was difficult to adapt to the new culture but after a few weeks I adapted easily.

I would recommend this experience to anyone, for definite, as it was one of the best decisions I have made.  I got the chance to meet new people and experience the Irish culture and I will definitely miss it.