Elsa Beqiri
Student Midwifery, University of Medicine Tirana
Elsa Beqiri, Student Midwifery, University of Medicine Tirana
Erasmus+ Period: from March to May 2025
I am starting to describe my experience with the Erasmus + program, from March to May 2025, Contract №: 2022-1-BG01-KA171-HED-000074631
My name is Elsa Beqiri, a student in the Bachelor's degree program in Midwifery, 3rd year at the Faculty of Medical and Technical Sciences, Tirana.
It gave me the opportunity to participate in the Erasmus + program for a two-month period at the Sofia University of Medicine. This mobility gave me the unique opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills in the field of midwifery, working in an international and multicultural context, away from the usual academic environment.
During my internship in this modern and well-organized healthcare institution, I had the opportunity to assist in obstetric and gynecological services, closely follow the birth process, participate in pregnancy monitoring and engage in postnatal care for mothers and babies. An important part of the experience was observing different clinical protocols, which helped me understand new perspectives in medical care and develop more advanced approaches to the patient. Living in Sofia was a challenge and an opportunity for personal growth. At first, adapting to a foreign country and a different culture made me feel insecure, but I soon felt welcomed and began to enjoy life in this vibrant and historic city. I liked the way modern Bulgarian culture coexists with the country’s historical heritage, as well as the positive energy of the young people I met during my stay.
In addition to work and study, I had the opportunity to explore the city of Sofia and two of the most beautiful cities in Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo and Plovdiv. These trips were a great cultural enrichment, helping me to better understand Bulgarian history and identity, while experiencing the hospitality and traditions of the local people firsthand. Sofia left a special impression on me with its architecture, numerous parks, museums and active student life. This whole experience has had a profound impact on me. Not only have I grown professionally, but I have also personally gained more independence, self-confidence and the ability to face challenges in a new environment. Erasmus in Sofia taught me to be more open to different cultures and better prepared me for my future as a professional in the field of Midwifery.
In conclusion, I can say with conviction that this experience has been one of the most valuable investments in my development as an individual and as a future professional. It has equipped me with new knowledge, experiences and friendships that will remain an inseparable part of my life and career.
And to conclude, I am very grateful to my university for this special opportunity and to the host university for all the willingness they have shown for us. Thank you very much.