Chiara participated in one of the activities implemented under the project “EU Justice Insight”, co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union.
My name is Chiara, and I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in international relations in
Rome. I want to share my enriching experience with Erasmus +, a decision spurred by discovering
a project on Scambieuropei’s Instagram page last December.
The project, held at the Faculty of Economics of the University of Sofia in Bulgaria from the 22nd to
the 25th of January, delved into EU law through a simulation of the European Court of Justice.
Despite initial nervousness about leaving my city, I am pleased with the rewarding choice I made.
Upon arrival in Sofia, a warm and friendly atmosphere welcomed me. This environment fostered
open expression without fear of judgment. In the brief span of the project, I gained valuable
insights into EU law and honed my ability to venture beyond my usual boundaries. Participation in
the project provided an incredible opportunity to explore the intricacies of EU law. The simulation,
based on a recent and significant case involving allegations of the abuse of a dominant position in
the natural gas market, offered engaging and effective learning. Assuming the role of a judge
during the simulation allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge practically, deepening my
understanding of legal decision-making.
We had the privilege of speaking with the dean of the faculty, who gave us more details about the
case and provided additional insights into the energy sector in Bulgaria. Furthermore, engaging
with a journalist added a practical dimension to our discussions, shedding light on how legal
matters are communicated to the public.
The diverse group of participants made the experience even more special. Surrounded by
individuals who shared my interest in EU law, the collaborative learning environment encouraged
dynamic exchanges of ideas and perspectives.
Living in a foreign city for a short period presented a unique challenge that turned into a rewarding
adventure. Navigating unfamiliar surroundings and interacting with people from diverse
backgrounds pushed me to adapt and grow.
Reflecting on my time in Sofia, I am grateful for the friendships formed and the knowledge gained.
It was a brief yet impactful journey, highlighting the growth that occurs when stepping outside
comfort zones.
For those contemplating joining a project like this, I wholeheartedly recommend it. These initiatives
are about discovering new things, connecting with like-minded individuals, and creating lasting
memories. I encourage anyone seeking personal and intellectual growth to consider applying for
Erasmus + projects!