This week I sat down with my new friend, Aurora, who also happens to be one of Durham’s Erasmus exchange students from Italy. In this interview-style blog, I will share Aurora’s experience so far, which can hopefully help any students who are going through a similar exchange.
First, can you tell us who you are?
My name is Aurora. I am 20 years old, and I am from Sicily in Italy. I am currently in my third year at university studying Modern Foreign Languages at Durham. I have been able to study modules on Visual Arts, Anthropology and Spanish. I have been allocated Van Mildert College. I have been here for a month and a half, and I leave in June.
How did you feel before moving here?
Before moving here, I was excited but also a little bit scared because I didn’t have any expectations. For this reason, before moving, I didn’t even fully realise that I was going to be living in a totally different country for half a year. I was a bit stressed of course, but happy.
What are some essential items you brought from home?
One thing that is very different here from my country is the food. So, I have brought several typical foods from my country, so that I feel a little more at home and can acclimatise more gradually. In my case this was essential, but for you it could be anything, something personal like a teddy bear or something that you know you will not find as easily here in England.
Have your feelings changed now that you have been here for nearly one month?
Certainly! The first week was hard, I felt the culture shock a lot, as everything was completely different to what I was used to and so I missed home. But this is a completely normal phase that almost everyone goes through! After that comes the good part: the part where you settle in, make your own routine, and start a new and beautiful life experience.
What has been your favourite thing about Durham University so far?
As for the lessons, the seminars are very interesting and informative – they help you learn the language a lot. Otherwise, I have loved the societies and formals.
Have you made any friends since being at Durham?
Yes, right from the start: I immediately made friends with the other Italian students here thanks to the Erasmus meetings. Afterwards, I made friends with other Erasmus students from different countries thanks to the ‘Erasmus student network’ Whatsapp groups. Finally, I got to know some of the local students during my classes.
What has the support been like for Erasmus students?
I have felt a lot of support from the Italian department – it has been nice to have them here. I have also found it useful being friends with local students who are able to show me the area and tell me more about Durham from their perspective.
Have you tried any clubs/societies since being at Durham?
Yes, I tried the dance society and the pole dancing society! I have continued with pole dance; it’s really cool, and the teachers are really nice, plus it’s definitely another way to make friends. Basically, there are societies for everything here, sports, hobbies, and so on, so I’m sure anyone would be able to sign up for at least one which interests them!
Biggest shock since moving to Durham?
The weather – it is very different from what I was used to. Make sure you have a good coat! The food also shocked me – a lot of Italian dishes don’t exist here or are made differently. Another fun little surprise was the road with its reverse lanes, not to mention cars with the driver on the opposite side!
How does completing the Erasmus programme help contribute to your future plans?
I would like to think that the confidence and independence that this programme will give me will be transferable in any future job.
Describe Durham in 3 words?
I would say fun, nice and cold.
Do you have any advice for Erasmus students coming to Durham?
I don’t really have any advice other than take it easy, learn a lot, don’t worry too much and live this experience the way it is. There may be some down days but remind yourself that after the storm the sun always comes out!
Discover more:
Durham University is a recognised institution in the Erasmus+ programme and has links with over 200 partner universities across Europe. This enables Durham students to study in Europe as part of their degree. In return, Durham also receives students from partner universities.
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