From Play to Purpose: A Journey Across Borders with Erasmus Mundus
When I first embarked on my Erasmus Mundus journey, I never imagined how transformative it would be. The scholarship allowed me to explore the Play, Education, Toys, and Languages (PETaL) programme, where my academic world expanded beyond the classrooms of my home country. Unlike studying in Mexico, where education tends to follow a more uniform path, Erasmus Mundus opened doors to multiple universities in Spain, Portugal, and Turkey each offering its unique educational perspective. These diverse academic systems, teaching styles, and cultural influences shaped my understanding of early childhood development in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
One of the most impactful moments came during a course in “Playwork as a Therapeutic
Process,” where we were tasked to design a playground in Lisbon’s neighbourhoods,
considering its social and cultural context. Combining theory and hands-on practice deepened my analytical skills and taught me to approach challenges creatively. I still vividly remember walking around the area with my classmates, brainstorming ideas, and coming together to build a proposal for an adventure playground; each of us, bringing something different to the table. The learning was collaborative, and the experience was unlike anything I had back home.
The learning was collaborative, and the experience was unlike anything I had back home.
The international student community was another highlight. In every classroom, I met brilliant minds from all corners of the world. The exchange of ideas was rich and dynamic, especially in discussing play and toys across cultures. Despite our differences, one thing was clear: every child, everywhere, needs and wants to play. This shared understanding fostered a sense of global citizenship, teaching me the value of collaboration and the power of diversity in education.
Living in different countries was also an incredible cultural journey. In Spain I was struck by the emphasis on work-life balance, something I had never experienced back home, where long work hours are the norm. The “siesta” time, when businesses closed for a few hours in the afternoon, felt like a revolutionary concept. It made me realise the importance of taking a break, resting, and focusing on well-being, something I’m eager to integrate into my own life back in Mexico.
Despite our differences, one thing was clear: every child, everywhere, needs and wants to play
Reflecting on this journey, I realise how vast and beautiful the world truly is. I’ve learned that everything happens for a reason, and every experience, whether challenging or joyful, adds a layer to who I am. I’ve created memories that will stay with me forever, and the knowledge I’ve gained will guide me in making a positive impact, no matter how small. As I continue on this journey, with one more year of my master’s ahead, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible professors, friends, and opportunities that have shaped this experience. This isn’t just about academic knowledge. It is about becoming a better person, ready to embrace the world and make a difference.
This isn’t just about academic knowledge. It is about becoming a better person, ready to embrace the world and make a difference.
This journey has truly taught me that the world is much bigger than I ever imagined. It’s
shaped me, pushed me, and inspired me to dream bigger and act bolder. I’ll carry these
lessons for a lifetime, always grateful for the Erasmus Mundus experience that has changed my life.