MY TRAINING MOBILITY IN BELGRADE: Emilija Korica, University of Banja Luka

Emilija Korica
University of Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Erasmus+ Mobility for Training at:

University of Arts in Belgrade, Faculty of Music

The Erasmus exchange program is a program available for students in these regions for some time now. Although I have in the past often heard wonderful things about this program, I have not imagined it was something available even for those who have left the student halls but are still ready to learn.

Once I have acquired the information that the Erasmus program is available for those working at the University, and that there is a possibility of achieving new knowledge, I started considering applying. Since my daughter is currently living and working in Belgrade, I have often been back and forth between Banja Luka and Belgrade. Thus, I thought what a nice way it would be to shake up the routine a bit by enriching it with a learning opportunity. Moreover, I grew an interest in the inner workings of the Belgrade University, and my curiosity made the decision!

The events that occurred within the few days I spent in Belgrade overshadowed my expectations. Not only did I get a new experience, but I also got the opportunity to compare the workings of two Universities. You know what they say: Two heads are better than one!

This trip has not only been useful in the work plan but also on a more personal level. Since this was my first work trip, administrative workers don’t get to travel much, I can say it affected my self-confidence a great deal. This is an experience I would recommend to all the administrative workers, who rarely take new chances – whether it is because of fear or age. Whichever it is, this is the perfect opportunity to get past it!

This was not my first visit to Belgrade, but the experience was completely different. I could devote my time to walking and visiting all the historic places, for which I had no time before. The Belgrade I saw in those few days was younger, more vibrant and colorful. Or was it maybe the feeling I had, I felt lighter and younger myself. Just like when I was a student.

I started my visit like a true tourist, down to Terazije, then through Knez MIhajlova, up to the Kalemegdan fortress, then next to the zoo and lastly up to Dorcol and the Student Park. Since the weather also agreed with the whole atmosphere, and it seemed as if summer had finally arrived, I decided to spend a day at the Botanical garden. I must admit that all my sympathies, aside from those stolen away by my coworkers, went to the Botanical garden – an oasis in the middle of the city! From the metropolitan noise and dust, into the freshness of the forest in a second.

Some time was stolen away for a walk down the Zemun´s key, sitting by the river, having a troll to Gardos, but also for a visit to the Church of Saint Sava. The Tasmajdan park and the visit to the tomb of Tzar Dusan at the saint Marc´s Church were also memorable experiences.

My lust for newness and adventure would have reached the theaters, museums, etc., however considering the current epidemiological situation, I tried to steer away from closed spaces as much as possible.

In conclusion, it was a wonderful experience that made me feel the colorfulness that only youth can give. I got the opportunity to learn many new things, but also give something back. From this Erasmus trip, I will carry only fond memories, and hope for many more.