A World Shared: How Erasmus Mundus Changed My Map of Life

Liseth Victoria Pasaguayo Báez ; Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Mechatronics Engineering (EU4M).

My life before 2018 had a clear, Ecuadorian trajectory. Then came the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree in Mechatronic Engineering (EU4M) acceptance, and my world map exploded into a vibrant, multi-colored journey that would span three countries and fundamentally reshape who I am.

The academic rigor of the program was exceptional, but the true master's degree I earned was in life, lived alongside people from every corner of the globe. Beyond the technical knowledge, Erasmus taught me to shed my old skin and see the world through a radically new lens.

The Flavor of Spain: Sharing a Life, One Tapas at a Time 🇪🇸

My journey began in the green, northern lands of Asturias, Spain. My first unforgettable lesson was delivered on a plate: the "cachopo"—a tender beef fillet stuffed with melted cheese and Serrano ham, perfectly paired with a glass of crisp Asturian cider. It was an instant epiphany. I realized that food is not just about taste; it is a profound way to understand a culture.

What truly captured my heart in Spain was the beautiful, effortless way people share their lives. A simple trip out for drinks could effortlessly morph into hours of laughter and deep conversation. The tapas culture became my favorite ritual: small, shared dishes that encourage connection, movement, and enjoying the present moment. I learned that in Spain, food isn't just eaten—it's shared. That sense of community and openness instantly made me feel at home, despite being thousands of miles from Ecuador.

The Energy of Egypt: Finding the Familiar in the Monumental 🇪🇬

The transition to Giza, Egypt, was a true leap into the unknown. The scale of the architecture, the sheer age of the monuments, the kinetic energy of the city, and the unfamiliar language—everything felt wonderfully new and daunting. Even the daily task of crossing the street to catch a bus became an adventure!

Yet, in that massive cultural shift, I found surprising familiarity. The local street food stalls, bursting with color and potent aromas, gave me a small, comforting jolt of memory, reminding me of the bustling marketplaces back home. I often felt profoundly far away, lost in a new world, yet simultaneously deeply connected to the universal thread of human experience. It was a beautiful paradox.

The Elegance of France: A Taste of Excellence 🇫🇷

My final academic chapter unfolded in France, where I completed my thesis project at the renowned FEMTO research institute. France was a study in elegance and precision, from its language to its incredible love affair with fine dining. I still smile when I recall the sheer, overwhelming variety of cheeses I was lucky enough to try—I honestly lost count! It was the perfect environment to complete my technical studies, offering both academic excellence and a refined cultural appreciation.

Beyond the Classroom: The True Diploma

Living, adapting, and thriving in three distinct countries taught me infinitely more than engineering theory. It forced me to adapt quickly, to open my mind completely, and to truly value the richness of human diversity. Each culture left an indelible mark: Spain gave me community, Egypt gave me courage, and France gave me a sense of appreciation for quality.

The most beautiful part of traveling, I realized, is not simply seeing famous landmarks; it is in connecting with people and sharing our stories. Erasmus Mundus helped me grow as a professional, certainly, but it excelled at molding me into a better, more complete person.

My journey showed me that reaching our grandest dreams depends on effort, motivation, and a deep-seated willingness to learn from others. Looking back, I feel an immense wave of gratitude. This experience didn't just change my career path; it completely altered my perspective on the world and proved that life is truly, magnificently beautiful when it is shared.

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