An Unforgettable Experience in the Erasmus Program
“Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in an Erasmus program, during which we hosted a student from Spain. Her name was Candela, and from the very first moment, I knew this would be a special experience.
As soon as Candela arrived, we started talking. She told me she was very curious about Satu Mare. We instantly clicked and became good friends. In the afternoon, I introduced her to my family, who welcomed her warmly and offered her some homemade pastries. She said she already felt at home here.
The next day, we decided to show her around our town. We took her to the most beautiful places: we walked through the main square and visited the museum. Candela was amazed by everything and took countless photos. In the evening, we went to a cozy restaurant. She absolutely loved the food.
On Wednesday and Saturday, we were busy with our own programs at school.
On the last day of the program, a big farewell party was organized for all the participants. The atmosphere was fantastic: we danced, chatted, and shared our experiences. Candela and I laughed the entire evening. I felt sad that this wonderful experience was coming to an end soon.
Saying goodbye was emotional, but we promised to stay in touch. Candela assured me she would return one day, and I promised to visit her if I ever traveled to Spain. This Erasmus program was not just a cultural experience but also the beginning of a new friendship that I hope will last for many years to come.”
Anna Haller, 9th grade
“He arrived Sunday at 9 p.m. from the Czech Republic. At first, I didn’t recognize him because he looked different from the photo I had seen, but with my teacher’s help, I found him, and we went home. When we arrived home, my family greeted him with a nice dinner. We talked for two hours about what we like and found some things that we both enjoy, for example, going to the gym. After dinner, he said he was sleepy, so I showed him the house, the rooms, and then I let him sleep.
On the second day, we ate breakfast together and went to school. We weren’t together until 5 p.m., but when he came home, we talked a bit about our day, then we started working out. While we were working out, we got to know each other better. I found out that he plays the drums for three bands, and they perform at small concerts or weddings. He also does kickboxing and other fighting sports, and he’s really good at it. After the workout, we ate dinner, which he really enjoyed, then I left him to chat with his friends or talk to his parents for the rest of the night.
On Tuesday, we didn’t really do anything because he came home very late and felt a little bit sick, so we ate dinner together, and then he went to sleep.
On Wednesday, I found out that he really loves to sleep because I had to wake him up three times. We ate breakfast and went to school. The programs for him ended very late, so we didn’t do anything that day; we only talked.
Thursday started like all the previous days. We ate breakfast, talked a bit about what we were going to do that day, then we went our separate ways. I talked with him on the phone in the afternoon, and he said he wanted to go to a local gym with his friends. I talked about it with my mom, and she said he could go, so he went there. I didn’t see him until the party for the 9th graders at my school, which they were also invited to. We had a really good night with the other kids. We danced, we ate, and after it ended, we went home at 10 p.m. We weren’t really hungry, so we ate only a little, then we both said we were tired and wanted to sleep, so we did.
On the last morning, he gave me a gift full of candies and souvenirs from the Czech Republic. I really appreciated it. We went to school for the last time. I said goodbye to him because, at that time, I didn’t know if I could go to the party that evening. I managed to go to the party, which was even better than the one the day before. But sadly, it came to an end, and I had to say goodbye to him for real this time. After the goodbye, they got on the bus and went home.”
Ádám Kása Baumli, 9th grade
“Sunday was the first time we met; she arrived from Spain. She arrived late at night. We took her home, where we had dinner and talked afterward. The school had different programs every day, and she really liked them.
The first time, we just talked about who likes what. Then we got to know each other better at the party, and there was much more to talk about. We started to have more conversations and began talking about girly things.
On Friday, there was the farewell party, where we danced together with the exchange students. It was very interesting to see the dances of different countries.
We hugged each other for the last time, and then, on Saturday at 2 o’clock in the morning, she went back to Spain.
I think it was a very good opportunity to make new friends, and I met one of the cutest girls, who was like a sister to me. I never had a sister, only two brothers, but in this one week, I got the best one I could ever get.”
Karola Feigi, 10th Grade
“Last month, I had the opportunity to participate in an Erasmus exchange program hosted in my hometown. It was a week full of learning, cultural exchange, and unforgettable memories as we welcomed students from six different countries. Each of us had to host a student in our home, and I was thrilled to have Filip from Czech Republic stay with us. From the moment he arrived, we clicked instantly and shared countless laughs and stories.
Together, the participants organized various programs and activities. One of the highlights of the week was our trip to Nagybánya. There, we visited a charming open-air village museum that showcased the rich cultural heritage of the region. It felt like stepping back in time, walking through the traditional houses and learning about their history. We also explored a fascinating crystal museum, where we admired breathtakingly beautiful pieces
The exchange wasn’t just about traveling and sightseeing. It was also about connecting with each other through shared experiences. One memorable event was the farewell party, where each group taught their traditional dance choreography to the others.
Throughout the week, Filip and I became great friends. Hosting him was an incredible experience; we shared meals, exchanged cultural traditions, and bonded over our similarities and differences. Saying goodbye was bittersweet, but I know this is not the end of our friendship.
This Erasmus program was more than just a cultural exchange. It brought together students from across Europe, breaking down barriers and building bridges of understanding and friendship. I will always treasure these memories and the connections I made“.
Ábel Somkereki, 9th grade
“Recently, I had a fantastic opportunity to experience the Erasmus program up close. A Spanish exchange student stayed at my place for a week, and during this time, our school hosted Erasmus students here in Szatmár.
From the very first moment, I knew it was going to be a special week. Our Spanish guest wa s full of energy and curiosity, marveling at everything – from our food to our local customs. She was eager to try Hungarian flavors; although the vineta surprised her a bit, she absolutely loved the húsleves.
The school programs were incredibly colorful as well. The Erasmus students came from various countries, each bringing a piece of their own culture. There were presentations, games, and even a city tour that we organized for them. One of the best moments was when we danced together at the gólyabál party.
By the end of the week, our guest felt like a family member, and saying goodbye was bittersweet. The Erasmus program didn’t just bring new friendships but also gave us locals the chance to see our everyday lives from a different perspective. This week will remain a cherished memory for me, and I’d definitely love to join such an international program in the future!” Alexandra Brigitta Varga, 9th grade
“My name is Nagy Regina Hanna. I was part of the Erasmus project, hosting for a week a girl called Aira, who is a kind, smart, and pretty girl.
Our remarkable journey began on the 21st of October. Aira traveled all the way from Lithuania, and together, we approached this Erasmus project with great enthusiasm. The program was meticulously organized, offering a variety of enriching activities and excursions, such as going on trips together or, for example, cooking each other’s national dishes. Each day brought new opportunities to learn and explore, making the journey both eventful and fulfilling.
As all good things must come to an end, our adventure concluded with a heartfelt farewell. We made sure that she enjoyed all of it, welcoming her with open arms and genuine warmth. I believe she left with memories that she—and I—will cherish for a lifetime.”
Regina Hanna Nagy, 8th grade
