My name is Edoardo, and I have a degree in Architecture from Rome. I’m currently working on my path to establishing my own professional practice. I’m particularly interested in sustainable architecture and understanding the management and entrepreneurial dynamics of a practice. I discovered the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program while looking for international mobility opportunities that would allow me to gain entrepreneurial experience abroad. Having already lived in Germany during my Erasmus+ program at university, I was motivated to return to deepen my understanding of the professional context. Thanks to the EYE program, I joined Stefanie, my Host Entrepreneur, in her architecture practice based in Berlin. My goal was to learn firsthand how to manage a practice, develop professional relationships, and understand the strategic and administrative aspects of the profession.
During my tenure, I actively collaborated with Stefanie in various aspects of her professional activity. I participated in client meetings, site visits, and internal discussions, gaining a concrete insight into project development, client communication, and decision-making processes. I also helped strengthen the firm’s digital identity, analyzing the website and proposing visual and structural improvements to enhance its professional positioning. I also had the opportunity to observe administrative activities related to competition participation and project planning, gaining a better understanding of the organizational and strategic aspects of managing a firm. My relationship with Stefanie was based on open dialogue and mutual exchange, which allowed me to learn from her experience and contribute my own ideas.
This experience allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of how an architecture firm works, going beyond the mere design aspect. I improved my communication skills, gained awareness of business strategies, and observed how to build and manage professional relationships with clients and collaborators. I strengthened my ability to analyze strategic and organizational decisions, crucial skills for my future career. The experience also allowed me to build significant professional contacts and laid the foundation for potential future collaborations. Living and working in Germany again also contributed to my personal growth, improving my adaptability and broadening my international perspective. Today, I feel more prepared and confident in pursuing my goal of starting an architecture firm.
The EYE program allowed me to gain a concrete understanding of what it means to run an architecture firm, combining creativity and entrepreneurship. It gave me greater awareness, confidence, and the fundamental tools to build my professional future.