Eglė Šukytė - Faculty of Business Management - Lusophone University of Humanities and Technology, Portugal

Portugal, in one way or another, is a difficult country to navigate, yet it's always worth the struggle. During my Erasmus+ experience, I quickly realized that it doesn’t take long for Portugal to feel like home, even when it’s more than a thousand kilometers away from everything familiar. What makes it truly special are the people: expressive, warm, curious, and full of life. Regardless of your background, style, or interests, there's space for everyone here. 

Making friends came naturally, as the environment itself invites connection. From international students to locals, I found myself surrounded by people who made me laugh, challenged me, and helped me grow. Lisbon became my classroom beyond university walls. 

The parks, sunny terraces, weekend markets, miradouros, and nearby beaches weren’t just places to spend time. They were where life happened. It was in those everyday moments that I connected with others, practiced new languages, and learned about different cultures, including my own. Academically, studying in another language had its challenges, but it pushed me to become more confident and adaptable. Balancing studies, part-time work, and a new culture wasn’t always easy, but it taught me time management, resilience, and how capable I actually am. Looking back, Erasmus+ wasn’t just an exchange. It was a transformation. I arrived with curiosity and left with unforgettable memories, lifelong friends, and a broader sense of who I am and what I’m capable of. Portugal will always feel like a second home, and this journey will stay with me forever.