How To Be An Erasmus Student During The COVID-19 Pandemic

What began as an uncertain thought ended with hopes of extending my two-month stay in Poland had I not had other commitments.

As might be expected, one of the foremost motivating factors for applying for another Erasmus program is the positive experience I had in Szeged two years ago. I loved every bit of it and even documented my experience. 

Choosing Poland as my Erasmus destination- like many of the life-changing decisions I’ve made- wasn’t my first option for this year’s Erasmus program. Hi, Ms Rona! But I don’t get to complain. Neither was choosing Poznań, too. Just like the rest of the world was plunged into scepticism by the COVID-19 pandemic, the world of Erasmus was fraught with uncertainty- from deferred applications to cancelled agreements- the program was bound to go through its own shaky times. However, as the world is gradually learning to live with the virus- following sacrifices made by healthcare professionals and frontline workers- we, as students, learned to take charge and embark on a journey that offers more than merely integrating oneself into a different culture and lifestyle.

This is one of the many picturesque streets and buildings in the old town of Poznan

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I arrived at Lawica airport on a scorching Monday afternoon, and at the point of entry, even before our bags began rolling on the conveyor belt, I knew it wasn't going to be the same. Nothing has been like it used to be for the last year. 

My adventure began at Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland. I observed a compulsory 2-week quarantine, which meant that my clinical rotations only kicked off two weeks after. Settling down in a new city whilst abiding by quarantine regulations wasn’t quite the welcome I needed.

Szpital Kliniczny im. Heliodora Swiecickiego Uniwersytetu Medycznego w Pozananiu...a.k.a one of the university hospitals in the city.

During my training programs in various departments at the hospital, I documented my highlights for the week in the small notepad that I always carried with me. A few of these moments are:

Week 1- The Couple

"You would easily tell the dynamics of this relationship the moment the doctor and his wife walked through the door of the sun-lit consultation room. The non-verbal cues suggested his concern while his wife (the patient) kept a calm, almost stoic demeanour. Reminds me of a story my Gynecology teacher told the class about consultations with couples. The interaction between this old couple was heartwarming, so much that I couldn't care much about getting warmer in that room that was already warmed by the 10:00 sun".

Week 5- Real vs Reel

"Twice this week, I witnessed two patients getting closed up on the operating table after the surgeons decided that nothing could be done to help the patient- surgically. This is in stark contrast to what many medical shows portray as being a "good doctor". Yet, in reality, the best of surgeons are the ones who know when not to cut".

Week 6- Adrenaline

"My first day in the Emergency Department was met with an expected surprise. It would be my first time assisting in resuscitating a patient that has been brought in by paramedics. It took me a while to get over the adrenaline rush, which, by the way, I enjoyed".

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Living with locals undoubtedly made staying in Poznan a seamless experience. I would write a few paragraphs about the friendships I made if space permits.

This city of universities and Renaissance-style buildings boasts of an impressive transport system, so if you ever find yourself in Poznan for a week or more, take a look at this link before you journey away. The Polish language has its origin in the Slavic, so your rusty Bulgarian or Russian may be your guiding angel in your first few days here. However, I quickly noticed that several young people on the streets understand and speak English, so you're ready for your trip!

The Old Town Square with its many colourful buildings.

There wasn't much to savour in terms of local cuisine. But what Poznan lacks in dishes, it makes up for it in picturesque streets and alleyways. Taking a walk here- although a little congested during the summer months- is an excellent way to unwind after a stressful day. 

I must mention that I was shocked in a hilarious way when I realised that the two goats that knocked heads in the Old Town square weren't exactly what I hoped to see. This is a no-spoilers zone, so I'll leave you in anticipation of the daily midday fascination in Poznan centre.

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Despite the uncertainty that has ravaged the world for well over a year now, being able to embark on another Erasmus journey is a reminder that adjustment and adaptability are the first steps to becoming a doer and an achiever. 

Although I'm now in my final year, should I be presented with another opportunity to make an Erasmus hattrick, I'll most likely take a shot.