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Before you start reading my stories on this website, check out this playlist that I made specifically for this. Listen to it while reading. 
Now prepare. I'm serious. At least you, the curious person reading this could prepare for what I experienced during the two weeks in Portugal because nothing and no one could've prepared me for all the amazing things I witnessed. This will be a memoir, a diary, or something I can always come back to and laugh or cry while reading. So, it will be personal. 

I talked about the institution I was in, things I've learned and seen there, and the employees who were by my side. There are short stories of fun situations, funny statements, unforgettable people, and experiences. There's even a page full of pictures of beautiful views, people, music, and places to calm down and go through.

Portugal was not my first Erasmus+ experience, I've already traveled to Rome two years ago via Erasmus. That project took way less effort to participate in, it also wasn't even close to as good as this year's one. I do have to admit that I was a completely different person back then, and I've changed for the better. This Erasmus experience changed me even more. I was always quiet and never let anyone get close. My advice is to never start your Erasmus trips with a mindset like that. Because you won't have a good time. And Erasmus is not for that, it's for learning how to be the complete opposite. When I realized that, and relaxed around people I traveled with - I was reborn. I learned how to breathe again and grew wings. You should try it. With the new mindset, Portugal was like a movie. All those strangers from school that I've never seen turned out to be such amazing and funny people. Strangers weren't as scary to talk to, and being loud felt amazing. You should try it. Your attitude makes a huge difference. 

Let me give you an introduction to this whole project and everything you'll be reading about. MEDSKOS is an Erasmus+ project that promotes learning through international experience. The idea of the project was for nurses, laboratory technicians, and physiotherapists to experience practicing their skills in Portugal for two weeks in different institutions all over the beautiful city of Braga. Applying to this project took a lot of hard work, which makes sense because only the most determined students applied. Only eighteen made the final cut and deserved the chance to travel to Portugal. After that, we had to attend preparation classes during which we practiced and improved our professional skills, the English language, and got familiar with the Portuguese culture. At that time I only knew three people, two of whom were from my class. I doubted that I could be friends with or even talk to anyone attending those preparation classes and traveling with me. I was very wrong. 
Through the stories, you'll realize I spent most of my time with Iris, Vanessa, and Marija. My physiotherapist colleague during the practical classes was Nea. Nice to meet you. I had to tell you their names just like a writer of some book would because they're the most important characters in this story of ours. 
The other people are incredibly sweet and funny. I could talk to any of them. We have our differences that sometimes show. We still managed to be on our best behavior during the trip for our and the teacher's sake. At least that wasn't hard to do. We aren't troublemakers. 
During the trip, the teachers somehow managed to become our friends while keeping us grounded and under control. Such a safe and successful approach. They were our safe place. They were always calm and knew what to do in any situation. They were fine with being our moms, siblings, teachers, doctors, nurses, maids, deliverers - all in one. Taking eighteen kids across the world is a huge responsibility. I hope they know we are infinitely grateful for everything they did for us, as well as them making this project possible. 
Enjoy my stories. 

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