As my stay abroad is coming to an end, I can reflect on the experience as a very valuable and insightful period of professional and personal growth. Throughout the exchange, I had the opportunity to closely observe how a small business operates and to gain a deeper understanding of the practical realities of entrepreneurship. Being involved in real projects allowed me to apply my design background while learning how creative work functions within a broader business context.
One of the most significant aspects of this experience has been gaining insight into everyday business processes, including planning, decision-making, client communication, and workflow organisation. I was able to contribute my design skills while also expanding my knowledge in areas such as marketing and strategy. This has helped me better understand how to align creative ideas with business objectives.
There were also some challenges during my stay, particularly at the beginning. Adapting to a new city required time and energy, especially when it came to practical matters such as finding suitable accommodation and settling into a new environment. Balancing these personal adjustments with professional responsibilities was sometimes demanding. However, these challenges helped me become more resilient, better organised, and more confident in managing change.
Overall, I feel that the objectives of the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme have been met. The exchange provided hands-on experience, practical knowledge, and a realistic view of entrepreneurship that goes beyond theory. It also helped me reflect more critically on my own business idea and identify areas for improvement.
With the remaining two weeks, my main focus is on consolidating what I have learned, finalising ongoing tasks, and gaining as much insight as possible into the strategic aspects of the business. This experience has strengthened my professional skills, expanded my perspective, and confirmed my motivation to continue developing my entrepreneurial path.