Ciao a tutti!
My name is Manon, and I am international student from Düsseldorf, Germany living in the Residenza G. Tovini in Rome since September 2021. I am second year master’s student in international relations and diplomacy at Luiss University in Rome and for the last semester of my academic program I joined IE University in Madrid for an Erasmus+ exchange.
Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, is the perfect place for an Erasmus exchange due to its unique blend of rich history, cultural diversity, and lively atmosphere. As one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities, Madrid offers an exceptional experience for students seeking to broaden their horizons. The city is renowned for its world-class universities, providing an excellent academic environment for students to enhance their knowledge and skills. Moreover, Madrid’s strategic location in the heart of Spain makes it an ideal base for exploring the country’s diverse regions and experiencing its rich cultural heritage. From the magnificent Royal Palace to the world-famous Prado Museum, Madrid offers an abundance of historical landmarks and art treasures.
Additionally, the city boasts a vibrant nightlife, with countless bars, clubs, and live music venues, ensuring that students can immerse themselves in the exciting social scene. The warm and welcoming nature of the Madrilenian people further enhances the experience, allowing students to make lifelong friendships and connections. In summary, Madrid provides the perfect combination of academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and social engagement, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable Erasmus exchange.
The academic program at IE University, where I joined the Master in International Relations at the School of Global and Public Affairs, was also a highly enriching experience which complemented my studies in Rome! For example, my favorite class dealt with Middle Eastern and North African studies, a topic that interests me very much as I am writing my thesis about conflict resolution in Libya and Yemen. The campus for master’s students is located in Salamanca, a very nice and posh neighborhood in central Madrid full of great restaurants and shopping places. Furthermore, IE University also recently finished constructing the “IE Tower” which offers various sports facilities and additional study spaces. Overall, the environment at IE University is very international and my fellow classmates welcomed me very nicely.
Hence, I want to emphasize that embarking on an Erasmus semester is a remarkable opportunity for personal development that can have a profound impact on an individual’s life. The experience of living in a new country, often with a different language and culture, fosters adaptability, resilience, and independence. It challenges us as young students to step out of our comfort zones, embrace new experiences, and develop a global mindset. In short, studying aboard will ultimately shape you into being more confident, adaptable, and culturally aware global citizens.
A unique and valuable opportunity that should not be missed!
Manon Sophie Vogel
