Erasmus Exchange at SASS: Story of Karim Barada

My Erasmus Exchange at SASS: From Uncertainty to a Life-Changing Journey

When I first landed in Slovenia for my Erasmus exchange, I had no idea what to expect. I arrived in a completely new country where I didn’t know a single person. Everything felt unfamiliar—the language, the streets, the culture, and even the way the university worked. Looking back now, I realize that those first moments of uncertainty were the beginning of one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.

At first, it was challenging to adapt. Although I was already used to living independently, moving to a completely different country came with its own set of challenges. I had to adjust to a new culture, a different university system, and a new way of life. Every day brought something unfamiliar, from communicating with people from different backgrounds to learning how things worked in a new environment. Those experiences pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me become more adaptable, open-minded, and confident.

Overcoming Challenges and Academic Growth in an International Setting

Academically, an Erasmus exchange gave me the opportunity to experience a completely different educational environment. I was exposed to new teaching methods, worked with students from different countries, and challenged myself by taking courses that were more advanced than what I was used to. It wasn’t always easy, but overcoming those challenges made every achievement much more rewarding. I learned that personal growth and academic success often come from facing difficulties instead of avoiding them.

However, what made Erasmus truly unforgettable wasn’t just the academic experience—it was the people. I arrived knowing absolutely no one, but I left with friendships that I believe will last a lifetime. I met incredible people from all over the world, each with their own culture, traditions, and unique stories. We traveled together, explored beautiful places, spent countless evenings talking for hours, laughed over the smallest things, and supported each other whenever someone felt homesick or overwhelmed. It’s amazing how people who were complete strangers just a few months earlier can become some of the most important people in your life.

Lifelong Friendships and Unforgettable Memories Beyond the Classroom

Living in such an international environment completely changed my perspective. It taught me to appreciate different cultures, be more open to new ideas, and understand that despite our different backgrounds, people have much more in common than we often think. Erasmus was never just about studying abroad. It was about growing as a person, building meaningful connections, and creating memories that I will always carry with me.

One of the biggest lessons I learned is that the best experiences often begin with uncertainty. If I had been afraid to leave my comfort zone, I would never have met the people who became like family or discovered how much I could learn from living in a completely different environment.

As my exchange came to an end, leaving was much harder than arriving. The place that once felt completely foreign had become a second home. Through the Erasmus+ KA171 project at the School of Advanced Social Studies (SASS), I gained far more than academic knowledge—I was given unforgettable memories, a broader worldview, and lifelong friendships. I came to Slovenia as a stranger, but I left with a second home.

Are you ready to expand your horizons, gain international experience, and step into a global career? Explore our study programs at SASS and join us for our next exchange opportunity!