My Erasmus+ Mobility for studies at ESADA: Martina Mason, Università Iuav di Venezia

Martina Mason, Interior Design student at Università Iuav di Venezia (Italy)

Erasmus+ Mobility for studies at ESADA from September 2024 to June 2025.

Hi! My name is Martina, and I’m an Interior Design student. For my second-year Erasmus, I chose ESADA after discovering the school and its programs on the website, and I was also drawn in by the beauty and charm of the city of Granada. I set off on this journey alone, not really knowing what to expect, but from the very first day I realized I was about to experience something truly special.

When I arrived, ESADA organized a guided tour of the school and the city, a moment that allowed me to meet other international students who, over time, would become real friends. In fact, some of the most beautiful friendships I’ve ever made started there.

The Erasmus coordinator, Félix, was a key point of reference. From the beginning, he made us feel comfortable and was always present and available for any questions or needs we had.

At first, I admit it wasn’t always easy to follow the classes—my Spanish was still very basic—but both the professors and my classmates were understanding and helpful from the start. They supported me in getting used to both the language and the teaching approach, which was quite different from that of my home university.

And almost without realizing it, day by day, speaking Spanish with classmates, friends, and professors, and attending all the lessons in Spanish, my language skills also improved a lot.

One of the things I appreciated most about ESADA was the project-based approach: every subject revolves around a single central project, allowing you to explore it in depth in a complete, multidisciplinary, and stimulating way. It’s a method that really pushes you to give your best and helps you grow.

In addition, the university further involves students through workshops, design weeks, and events organized throughout the year, enriching the academic experience and creating opportunities to engage with inspiring creative and professional environments.

As the weeks went by, I built an increasingly strong connection with my classmates, who never made me feel out of place. Everyone was welcoming, super friendly, and always ready to help or share a laugh—even outside the academic setting. I was surrounded by enthusiastic, creative people.

Meanwhile, Granada found a special place in my heart. Every corner of the city tells a story: the majestic Alhambra, the Cathedral, the breathtaking views from the miradores, the vibrant city center, and the neighborhoods full of music and colors. The Andalusian atmosphere, the warm people, the delicious food—and of course, the tapas!—made this city feel like a true home away from home.

Granada is also a lively university city, full of energy, with parties and events happening every week. There’s always something to do, someone to meet, and a reason to go out.

Thanks to student associations, I had the chance to travel easily and visit other cities in Spain: discovering new cultures, joining local festivities, and enjoying every moment with my friends.

All of this led me to extend my stay for a second semester—and I’ve never regretted it. It was just as wonderful as the first, if not more. Every weekend was a chance to discover something new, go on a trip, celebrate a holiday, or simply share special moments.

In spring, as the weather got warmer, I also explored some beautiful spots around the province: from the mountains to the coast, surrounded by nature, the sea, and unforgettable views.

On the final day, we said goodbye to ESADA with a nighttime visit to the Alhambra, overlooking the illuminated Albayzín—a magical scene that seemed to sum up everything Granada had given me.

One day, I left alone for a city I didn’t know and came back with a heart full of unforgettable experiences, new skills, and above all, friendships I’ll carry with me for life.

If you’re thinking about doing Erasmus at ESADA, I can only say: go for it! It’s one of the best choices you can make, both academically and personally. It will change you, enrich you, and stay with you forever.