Pristupačnost
At the end of September, 2024, I arrived in Zagreb - a week before the official start of the semester. When I was applying to go study abroad, I wanted something different from what I was used to in Lithuania, but still not too far from home and Croatia seemed like the perfect mix: a Southern European country with a familiar Eastern European spirit. I have never been to Croatia before, so it was exciting and a bit intimidating to navigate everything on my own.
From the strat, Zagreb felt welcoming. Someone told me “it’s a big city that feels like a small town”, and i completely agree. There is always something happening, especially for students, but it’s also compact and easy to get around.
I studied at the Faculty of Croatian Studies, where I took courses that matched with my degree, which is communications. I found all the subjects I took enriching and closely connected ot my field. The academic enviroment was very supportive: professors encouraged questions, discussions, and participation. I was the only international student in several classes, but I never felt out of place - classmates were friendly, spoke English well, and were genuinely curious about Lithuania and Erasmus life.
One of my favorite academic experiences was the Croatian language course. At the end of the semester, we presented a project in Croatian about Zagreb to other students. Speaking a new language, after only a few months was challenging, but incredibly rewarding.
Living in the Stjepan Radić dormitory was another highlight. It's large, well located, and has cafeterias and easy transport to the city center. For the price, it offers everything a student could need.
Outside of classes life in Zagreb is full of energy. I joined the ESN buddy program and attended ESN events, which helped me connect with locals and other international students. My buddy was kind and helpful, especially during the first few weeks. I made friends from all over Europe - many of whom I still keep in touch with now. Together we explored Croatia and beyond: from Rijeka, Split, and Dubrovnik, to Paris, Venice, and Ljubljana.
Still, some of my best memories are simple ones - like sitting in Ban Jelačić Square, grabbing coffee with friends in Chia Cups, or wandering through local shops and restaurants. Zagreb quickly became a city that felt like home.
Looking back, my Erasmus semester was a true journey of independence, learning, and growth. Coming to a country I had never visited before alone was a big step out of my comfort zone. It taught me confidence, adaptability, and how to find joy in the unknown. If I had to describe my Erasmus experience in one sentence, I'd say that it’s the kind of experience that changes you quietly - through people, places, and moments you never forget.
Simona Pranskūnaitė
