Steven spent a semester at university in Porto, Portugal, as part of the Erasmus+ programme. He tells us about his experience...
Tell us about your career Steven
My name is Steven JEAN-BAPTISTE and I'm a student in the second year of an LEA (Applied Foreign Languages) degree in English/Portuguese. I was previously in PACES (Première Année Commune aux Etudes de Santé) but I didn't want to continue because it didn't match my aspirations.
I would like to continue my studies to become a school teacher.
Why Portugal?
It wasn't my initial choice. Basically, they let you choose the country you want to stay in; I chose England. I wanted to go to London but the places were already taken. But I still wanted to go on this adventure. Of the countries where there were still places available, Portugal seemed the most appropriate in terms of my background. So I spent a university semester at the Universidade Fernando PESSOA in Porto (from 31/08/2016 to 17/01/2017).
Tell us about your Erasmus experience. Did you encounter any difficulties?
Before I left for Porto, I was naturally very apprehensive. I didn't speak the language very well, my level of schooling wasn't very good and I didn't know anything about the country. I didn't really have any preconceptions about Portugal, but I was more afraid that I wouldn't be able to follow the courses or adapt to this new environment. You always dread the language barrier, but I took it as a personal challenge.
One of the major difficulties I encountered was finding accommodation: it was very hard to find anything within a certain distance. My applications were turned down one after the other. But in the end I found a place in a shared flat with two other Portuguese students. That allowed me to leave with peace of mind. I got on very well with my flatmates and felt at ease in the neighbourhood.
And in the university system? What are the differences?
I noticed a few differences, particularly in terms of dress. The Portuguese dress differently, they don't wear uniforms but they have a 'more student' style, unlike us.
I found the classes more lively. There was more interaction with the teachers, which I really appreciated.
Otherwise, I wasn't too disorientated by the pace of the courses and the workload. I didn't see any real difference. The proof is that I came top of my class.
Would you recommend Portugal? What would you say to people who are leaving?
Yes, I recommend it. A huge yes. It's a country you really have to get to know and I don't regret my stay at all. The mentality of the inhabitants is incredible. Generally speaking, the Portuguese are very welcoming people. They have no prejudices and go beyond appearances. They put you at ease straight away. They are modest people, but they have a sense of humour and are very helpful.
The other positive point is that the standard of living is very low. For a student, that's a big advantage. It means you can afford a few extra leisure activities and outings.
What I would say to students is to go for it. The Erasmus adventure is a wonderful opportunity that we are given, it's unforgettable. These are memories that will last a lifetime. It's a fabulous experience. If I could, I'd go again, even to another country. I loved it.
What's your best memory?
My landlords and my flatmates. They are fabulous people who put me at ease straight away. The time I spent with them is one of the best memories I have and will never forget.
Any plans for the future?
I plan to finish my degree and go to Metropolitan France to do my Masters. I'd like to improve my language skills so that I can travel. I want to keep opening up to the world and travel to other countries before starting work.
The last word
Thank you to the University of Guyana for this fabulous adventure. Thank you to the International Relations Unit, which made it possible for me to leave.
