Exploring Europe Through Erasmus+: UCD student Anna Tcacenco, embarked on an Academic Adventure Abroad.

Last year, Anna Tcacenco, a UCD Midwifery student, took part in the Erasmus+ programme in Belgium. We asked her to share some highlights from her time abroad, from cultural surprises to clinical challenges, and how it all shaped her perspective on both Midwifery and life.

What made you decide to participate in the Erasmus+ programme?

Ever since I started studying midwifery, I was eager to broaden my perspective by experiencing a different culture and seeing how midwifery is represented in another country. Travel has long been a form of education, and languages are best learned in their native environment

How did you choose the country or university you wanted to go to for your Erasmus+?

Although Belgium was the designated partner for midwifery Erasmus+ exchanges at UCD, I was excited by the opportunity to study there and explore its unique approach to midwifery care. Since midwifery as a distinct profession from general nursing has only recently been established, I believe the Erasmus+ programme could expand to include more countries over time. Potential future options might include Sweden, Canada, the UK, Qatar, Germany, the United States, New Zealand, and Lithuania, which is currently preparing to introduce direct-entry midwifery training.

What was the biggest cultural difference you noticed when you first arrived?

One of the most noticeable differences was the strong relationship between colleges and their student societies. Additionally, within clinical practice, the separation of obstetric hospital care and midwifery-led community care stood out. For example, home birthing is more widely practiced in Belgium, particularly in the “La Maison de Naissance” (birth house) setting.

Can you share a memorable experience or adventure that you had during your Erasmus+?

I have many memorable experiences—some still vivid. One that stands out happened during my first few days. I had just joined the Erasmus student group chat and decided to meet up with people I had only interacted with online. That evening, it snowed heavily, and we ended up having a spontaneous snowball fight. Since it was near the end of the trimester, most of the students I met that night were Belgian students from the International House.

Earlier that same evening, I had also met an Italian student in a pub—we were the first two Erasmus students to arrive for the new trimester, and that meeting marked the beginning of many adventures. Later, when all the international students for the trimester had arrived, an Integration Day was organised, bringing together the entire Spring 2024 Erasmus group.

How did you balance your studies with exploring the new country and culture?

Since my placement schedule occupied weekdays, I made the most of my time by taking French courses, exploring nearby areas, and studying local guidelines and clinical techniques used in Belgian hospitals. On weekends, different student groups organised trips. It was amusing to see how groups naturally divided by language, but I mostly ended up with the Italian students, likely because I kept running into an Italian PhD student who had also started early in the trimester with me. Later in the spring trimester, the Irish students joined in.

What were some challenges you faced while living abroad, and how did you overcome them?

There were a few challenges, but they were manageable. One consideration was personal safety, especially for students with early morning to afternoon shifts and free time in the evenings. While night outings, particularly for drinks, required a bit of extra caution, the presence of regular police patrols in the area provided peace of mind. In Belgium, where there are many students, the International House community was always supportive and helpful.

Travelling alone was safe but travelling with friends was much more fun and organised. While enjoying night outings, it was important to stay mindful of safety which is common anywhere.

Another major challenge was the language barrier, especially in a fast-paced clinical setting where communication is crucial for building trust, gathering information, and obtaining informed consent. I tackled this by taking it step by step—reading French books, local newspapers, and magazines, speaking French even when others knew English, and keeping a record of new words to review. My French didn’t reach fluency, but by the end of my Erasmus, I saw a significant improvement.

Were there any surprises during your Erasmus that you didn’t expect (either good or bad)?

One pleasant surprise was how many friends and connections I made. I even met up with the president of the International House while on holiday in Spain after Erasmus had ended. The friendships and experiences I gained were invaluable, and I truly appreciate the International House group and its president. There’s a reason they host an Oscars-style event to recognise the best contributors—it’s a fantastic community.

Did you experience any language barriers and if so, how did you manage it?

Yes, particularly in clinical settings where quick, clear communication is essential. I managed by gradually immersing myself in the language—reading, listening, and practicing French daily. Even though I knew my fluency would be limited, I focused on improving my comprehension and confidence in speaking. By the end, I could communicate much more effectively.

Looking back, is there anything you wish you had done differently during your Erasmus?

If I had a chance to do it again, I would have booked my accommodation a bit earlier.

Would you recommend Erasmus to future students?

Absolutely! When else do you get the chance to travel, learn, and immerse yourself in another culture in such a structured and well-supported way? Erasmus provides a unique opportunity to explore, adapt, and gain a deeper understanding of different ways of life—all while receiving guidance and resources to help you make the most of your experience.