My name is Antonio Febbraio, I’m from Napoli, Italy, and I’m currently attending my second year of a Master’s degree in motor sciences for prevention and wellbeing at Università degli studi di Napoli “Parthenope”. 

During my academic journey, I had the unusual opportunity to experience two Erasmus in Croatia, first in Zagreb and later in Split.

My first Erasmus experience was in Zagreb, I was really curious about balkans lifestyle and excited to explore the city and its outstanding natural surroundings. At the university of Zagreb I found an engaging and dynamic academic environment, I will never forget water sports exam where we had sailing,windsurf and kayak classes for one entire week on a camping in Murter island. 

In Zagreb I met students from all over the world and friendly locals who were always willing to help and share their culture. Me and my friends were organizing international dinner every tuesday and also thanks to this I built really strong friendships, we are always planning reunions or future travels together.

6 months later, I was so lucky to have the chance to do another Erasmus in Split! The contrast between the capital and this coastal gem was fascinating, it reminded me of the distinction between Milan and my city, Napoli.  

Split, with its stunning coast, ancient roman architecture and “pomalo” lifestyle made me fall in love with Croatia even more. I have spent so many evenings exploring Diocletian’s palace narrow streets ending up with a gelato. Marjan hill was my favourite place and it’s the perfect example of all the fascinating nature that Dalmatia has to offer. 

in Split, I felt even more connected to the community, together with the ESN volunteers we have created a broad international family, this also inspired me to continue as a volunteer of my ESN local section as I already did after my first erasmus.

After all this I would say Erasmus is a must do in every student life, not for the things you’ll learn but for the people you’ll meet that will change your life, and if you are lucky…maybe you’ll change their lives too :)