MY STUDENT MOBILITY IN THESSALONIKI: Anastazija Jaredić

Anastazija Jaredić
University of Arts in Belgrade, Faculty of Music

Erasmus+ Mobility for Studies at:

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, School of Music Studies

When I got the opportunity to apply for Erasmus program, I thought about what destination I should choose to be a part of my life for five months. I knew I wanted to go in the second semester, and what better country to spend your summer in is then: Greece, specifically Thessaloniki!  

Greece has rich history, amazing food, many sights to see and friendly people that you could spend your time chatting with. All of these things were what made me send my application to this beautiful city, directly to Aristotle University. 

Thessaloniki is home to the Aristotle University, one of the largest and most prestigious institutions in Southeast Europe. The diverse course offerings, many of which are available in English, aligned well with my field of study and provided me the access to high-quality teaching and various research opportunities. I was a part of a class of prof. Gergios Sakallieros and got to hear more about Greek history, politics and art and I also learned to use basics in music production in the class of prof. Georgios Papadelis. This year was the 100th anniversary of AUTH and I got to see many performances of different students. 

Located in the Balkans, Thessaloniki is still relatively close to Serbia, but I didn’t expect to be shocked on how different it is. The smell of the sea is enough to relax you; the people are nice and friendly and will try to start conversation with you to talk about their day or to ask how you are doing, which helped me get out of my shell and become more sociable. Sometimes I spent my time just walking and getting lost in the city streets, getting to try new coffee spots and looking for local bookstores. 

Equally important is Thessaloniki’s dynamic and inclusive student life. The city has a reputation for being one of the most youthful and student-friendly cities in Europe. With a large international student population I got to meet people from all across Europe. There are numerous cultural events, festivals, and an energetic nightlife; there’s always something to be involved in. Thessaloniki’s location by the sea, combined with a Mediterranean climate, creates a pleasant and inspiring atmosphere for study and leisure. I’m also excited about exploring Greek cuisine, known for its health benefits and variety, and learning more about the Greek language and lifestyle. 

I had the opportunity to visit travel to different parts of Greece: I visited Athens and saw the Acropolis in person, one of the most important architectural sites in Europe! I also visited islands like Thassos and Skiathos, as well as the first to legs of Chalkidiki. I discovered beauty of the Olympus region and got to see and swim in the waterfalls under it.  

Erasmus was the first time I lived alone, and I faced many different challenges of new life. I didn’t know Greek before I came to Thessaloniki, but slowly I started to learn it and it helped me grow. But beyond all of that, what truly impressed me about Thessaloniki was a feeling; an instinct that this city has the kind of soul that can change a person. I stepped out of my comfort zone, I saw the world from a new perspective, and changed to be the best version of myself.