My name is Stanislav Petrov, and I am a master’s student in History at the Faculty of History of Veliko Tarnovo University “St. Cyril and St. Methodius”.
When I started my master’s degree, I already had a clear idea of what studying history meant – archives, texts, interpretations, and different perspectives on the same events. What I lacked, however, was personal international experience that could show me how history is lived, not only studied.
That was exactly when the opportunity for Erasmus+ Student Mobility for Studies appeared – this time at master’s level.
The decision to apply
I must admit – this was not my first trip abroad, but it was my first independent academic journey. I hesitated. A master’s programme is demanding, the requirements are more serious, and the expectations are higher.
In the end, the decision came logically: if I wanted to become a historian with a broad perspective, I had to step outside my familiar environment.
The Erasmus+ website of VTU provided me with everything I needed from the very beginning – the information was clear, structured, and specific. The application procedure turned out to be much easier than I had expected, especially when you know what, when, and where to submit.
Support that makes the difference
During the preparation process, I contacted Ms Daniela Pandulcheva from the Erasmus Office. The support I received was crucial – from the first questions to the final details before departure. For me, this was proof that Erasmus+ is not just a programme, but a well-functioning system with people who truly stand behind the students.
When I received confirmation for mobility at University of Pitesti, in the field of History and Archaeology, I felt that familiar excitement every Erasmus student probably knows – a mixture of joy, anticipation, and respect for what was ahead.
The journey to Pitesti – a second flight, a new experience
This was my second flight, but my first journey with the clear awareness that I was not simply visiting another country, but going to live and study abroad.
Romania is geographically and culturally close, yet from the very beginning I felt that a different academic and social environment awaited me.
I settled into a private apartment, which gave me greater independence and the opportunity to immerse myself in the daily life of the city. Pitesti turned out to be a calm, well-organised, and student-oriented city – an ideal environment for study and reflection.
The university and the studies
Studying at University of Pitesti was one of my most valuable academic experiences. The courses in history and archaeology placed a strong emphasis on the regional historical context, comparative analysis, and an interdisciplinary approach.
It was extremely interesting for me to see how similar historical periods and events are interpreted through the Romanian academic tradition. This did not challenge my academic foundations – on the contrary, it enriched them.
A cultural shock that teaches
Although Bulgaria and Romania share many similarities, the cultural shock was real – a different academic style, different communication between students and lecturers, and a different rhythm of life. Yet it was precisely these differences that made me more adaptable, more observant, and more open-minded.
An international environment and friendships
Erasmus+ gave me the opportunity to meet students from various countries – Poland, Italy, Spain, and France. Our conversations often started with history, but ended with culture, politics, identity, and future plans.
These connections turned into genuine friendships, not just temporary acquaintances. Today, we stay in touch and discuss future academic and professional projects.
What this mobility gave me
As a master’s student in history, Erasmus+ gave me something extremely important – context. I realised that history is not a nationally confined discipline. It is a dialogue between perspectives, cultures, and interpretations.
This mobility gave me:
- a broader academic horizon
- confidence in an international environment
- new professional contacts
- personal growth
- motivation for future development
🎓 My message to future Erasmus students
Apply.
Erasmus+ is not only for bachelor’s students, nor only for a “first time abroad”.
It is an opportunity to build upon yourself, expand your network, and see your field of study from a new perspective.
Sometimes one mobility changes not only your study plan, but also your direction as a person and a professional.
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