Aleksandra Sterle (2019/20)

When did you enjoy your mobility Exchange program?

I was an Erasmus+ student during the first semester of 2019/2020, from September to February.

Why did you choose Almería and UAL?

I was very attracted by the beautiful beaches, I also imagined it was the perfect place to study, in a wonderful university, right next to the coast. I also wanted to know about the locals and other foreigners like me.

Did you improve your English skills during your stay?

Yes, both my English and Spanish skills level. I couldn’t use my native language at all here as you can imagine. And of course I also improved my English since my degree focused on this language too.

Did you face a lot of troubles understanding Spanish?

I think I might be the only one, but I didn’t have much problems understanding the southern accent. I was able to get the hang of common daily phrases and everything.

What can you tell us about your academic area in your mobility experience?

I feel I improved due to my hard work, I expected them to be easier as they say, but I managed to do it well. I did face some difficulties regarding the Learning Agreement, but this is a very common problem. I was able to get along with it with the help of the professors and the ESN office.

What do you remember as the best things from Almería?

The language clubs at Asociación Socio-Cultural la Guajira, close to the Alcazaba, in the Old Town. I got the chance to meet new people and chat with them on a weekly basis on a different topic.

What do you miss the most from Almería?

The ESN people, which were very friendly, and the professors from the university. Almería is teeming with wonderful people, and I was able to make friendships that I will cherish forever.

Can you tell us a funny story or something special you remember from the experience?

Yes, definitely, there is this kebab shop close to my apartment. My roommates and I used to go there very frequently since their kebab is D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S. Long story short, the workers remembered us and our usual orders, so we didn’t even have to order anything. We just appeared, they saw us, and our food was ready hahaha.

Were you able to explore a lot of Spain or Almería?

Yes, I took the chance to travel to a lot of places too, I enjoyed this a lot. I had the chance to visit some of the most beautiful cities in Spain (in my honest opinion), and also the island of Gran Canaria. I was very happy about this one since it was my dream for a long time.

What would you recommend to future students thinking about choosing Almería as their mobility program destination?

My recommendation is to spend your time doing something outside, don’t stay at home, enjoy the beautiful landscapes this city has to offer. It is unique. Also, share your moments with people and make friends, you will remember them forever, they will be your Erasmus family. Also important: try all the food and drinks you can, everything is delicious. (Like the kebab)

And what about students going to your town and university?

There are wonderful places to see and go to! My only recommendation to people is to use their time wisely, try new food/things, and make as many memories as they can!

I really enjoy spending my time in the city center, hanging out with my friends, grabbing a bite, or shopping. As for the festivities, one of my favorites is the EXIT music festival, which is held every summer at the Petrovaradin Fortress, on the riverbank of the Danube.

Finally, any recommendation to students going to your university?

If you are a literature lover, make sure to check out professor Paunović's lectures!