How I fell in love with Italy Exploring Bergamo and Traveling Italy

Frederic F., Tourism Development Strategies (MA), 4th semester, Italy, Bergamo, University of Bergamo, summer semester 2023

My decision to embark on an Erasmus program in Bergamo, Italy, was driven by a strong desire for personal growth, cultural enrichment, and academic development. The allure of immersing myself in Italy's rich history, art, and cuisine, coupled with the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds, filled me with excitement. From the beginning of February to the end of June, I was fortunate enough to call Bergamo my temporary home, eager to embrace this transformative experience.
As I arrived in Bergamo, a wave of both nervousness and exhilaration washed over me. The city's charm, with its cobbled streets and picturesque architecture, instantly made me fall in love. Because I didn't get any help finding an apartment from the local Uni, I had to search myself. During the orientation event organized by the university, I met my first fellow Erasmus students, and we bonded over our shared excitement and uncertainties. One of the first people I got to know was Lorenzo, a local Italian student who warmly welcomed me into his circle of friends. Lorenzo's friendship served as a bridge between the local culture and the international community, easing my integration into daily life in Bergamo. I also connected with ESN (Erasmus Student Network) and AEGEE, two Erasmus organizations, which played a vital role in organizing social events and introducing me to other international students. Taking part in an Italian language course helped me navigate through everyday conversations and delve deeper into Italian culture.
During this phase, the bonds I formed with new friends from various countries grew stronger, leading us on exhilarating trips to explore Italy's diverse landscapes and cities. Our shared experiences became the cornerstone of many cherished memories, from the rolling vineyards of Tuscany to the azure waters of the Amalfi Coast. The experience was enriching academically as I engaged in group projects with students from Iran and Germany. The diversity of perspectives and ideas opened my mind to new approaches and solutions, enhancing my academic skills. A highlight of the mid-phase was the ESN - National Games, where Erasmus students from across Italy gathered for a weekend of sports and cultural exchange. This event further solidified my sense of belonging to the larger Erasmus community. As the weeks passed, some friendships blossomed into strong bonds that transcended cultural barriers, creating a sense of belonging and unity despite our different backgrounds.
In the closing weeks of my Erasmus journey, I found myself surrounded by many acquaintances and cultivated a few truly meaningful friendships. The experience of meeting such a diverse range of people and learning from their life stories left an indelible mark on my heart. During the final stretch, I traveled extensively with my newfound friends and explored almost every corner of Italy. These shared experiences deepened our connection and made our farewell all the more bittersweet. As exams approached, I shifted my focus to academics, determined to make the most of the remaining time. During this period, I had to say goodbye to people I had truly grown fond of, leaving a void that could only be filled with memories and the hope of future reunions.

I recommend all new Erasmus Students to look much in advance for their apartment and to also search on Facebook or in the Erasmus Groups. Furthermore, I encourage all to attend as many Erasmus Events as possible, especially in the beginning, where you can make a lot of friends very easily. Also, I recommend German Students not to only hang out with other Germans as this might limit their experience. There are so many different nationalities studying or doing an Erasmus, and it is awesome to get to know all these different people.
My Erasmus experience in Bergamo, Italy, was an extraordinary journey of personal growth, cultural immersion, and lasting friendships. It taught me to embrace the unknown, appreciate diversity, and cherish the connections I made with people from all corners of the world. Through this experience, I gained academic knowledge and invaluable life lessons that will stay with me forever. Bergamo will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the unforgettable moments that shaped my life during this period of exploration and self-discovery.