The first half of my Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs exchange has been both intense and rewarding. Looking back now, I can say that the experience has been very positive so far not in a perfect or effortless way, but in a very real and meaningful one. The beginning of the exchange was full of curiosity, energy, and some nervousness, but little by little, I started to feel more confident and more connected to my new environment.
One of the most important things I have noticed during these first months is how much I have already learned simply by being immersed in the daily life of NICOLA Arts. Observing how the organisation works from the inside has given me a clearer understanding of project management, communication, international collaboration, and the practical reality of running a creative organisation with a strong cultural mission. I have been able to take part in meetings, contribute ideas, and follow the development of different activities, which has made me feel involved rather than simply being present as a guest.
So far, there have been no major problems in the cooperation. Of course, as in any real work experience, there have been moments that required adjustment. At the beginning, it took a little time to adapt to a new rhythm, a new way of working, and a new professional context. However, these were not real obstacles; rather, they were part of the natural process of settling into the exchange. In fact, I think these small challenges have helped me grow because they have pushed me to be more flexible, more proactive, and more attentive.
A very positive aspect of this first half has been the mentoring process. Having regular guidance and receiving practical feedback has made a big difference for me. It has helped me refine my business plan, reflect more critically on my ideas, and understand which steps are realistic and useful for the future. I also feel that the exchange is meeting the objectives of the programme very well. I am not only learning from the host entrepreneur, but I am also contributing my own analytical perspective and entrepreneurial ideas, which creates a good balance in the collaboration.
If I were to mention one thing that could be improved during the second half of the exchange, it would simply be to continue building on what has already been started, with even more space for practical discussion and deeper project development. At this stage, I feel that the cooperation is working well, so the main priority is not to change direction, but to continue developing the work with consistency and openness. I would also like to keep strengthening my international network and focus even more on the long term development of my own project.
Emotionally, this experience has given me a great deal of motivation. There have been moments when I have felt challenged, but those moments have always come with opportunities to learn. I have become more confident in my ability to adapt, communicate in a professional setting, and think like an entrepreneur in a real world environment. Halfway through the exchange, I can already say that this journey is shaping me in a very positive way. It is helping me grow not only as a future entrepreneur, but also as a more independent, focused, and open minded person.