Erasmus Mundus First-Hand Experience: Empowering Bosnian Students Through Knowledge and Community

On 13 April 2025, the Western Balkans Alumni Association (WBAA), in collaboration with Erasmus Student Network Sarajevo and Erasmus Mundus Association (EMA) Bosnia and Herzegovina, hosted the enlightening event “Erasmus Mundus First-Hand Experience” at the University of Sarajevo. Organised by Mario Vrhovac, the event offered students a deep dive into Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus opportunities. Featuring personal stories, scholarship guidance, and the launch of the locally written “Erasmus Mundus Scholarships Step by Step” handbook, the event empowered Bosnian students with practical tools and inspiration to pursue international academic journeys. The day concluded with networking and a renewed sense of purpose.

On a bright Saturday morning, 13 April 2025, students gathered at the University of Sarajevo to attend an event that promised more than just information—it promised inspiration. Titled “Erasmus Mundus First-Hand Experience”, the event was masterfully organised by Mario Vrhovac, board member of WBAA Bosnia and Herzegovina, in partnership with the Erasmus Student Network Sarajevo and the Erasmus Mundus Students and Alumni Association (EMA) Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The goal was clear: to equip students with insightful, first-hand knowledge of the Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus programmes—opportunities that have transformed countless academic and professional lives across Europe and beyond.

The event commenced at 10:00 AM with engaging presentations that painted a vivid picture of the Erasmus experience. Daniel Josifovski from Macedonia and Dr Stojanovic Milan from Serbia—both WBAA board members—shared heartfelt narratives of their Erasmus+ journeys. Their stories underscored how academic mobility not only broadened their career paths but also shaped their personal growth and cultural outlook.

Following this, Adaleta Omerbasic, a member of both WBAA and the Erasmus Mundus Association in Bosnia and Herzegovina, took the stage to focus on the Erasmus Mundus Master’s scholarships. With clarity and encouragement, she walked students through eligibility criteria, application strategies, and tips for crafting compelling submissions. More than just a technical guide, her talk brought the process to life through the real success stories of past Bosnian awardees, igniting hope among the audience.

A standout moment of the day was the official launch of the new “Erasmus Mundus Scholarships Step by Step” handbook, thoughtfully prepared in the local language by EMA B&H. Tailored to the needs of Bosnian students, this invaluable resource breaks down the application process into clear, manageable steps—making the dream of studying abroad more accessible than ever. Its release marks a turning point in how students from the region will prepare for these competitive programmes.

To ensure the knowledge shared wasn't just one-way, the event transitioned into small group discussions. Here, participants engaged directly with alumni and experienced Erasmus students, asking specific questions, expressing concerns, and receiving personalised advice. These intimate settings fostered confidence, clarity, and genuine connections.

Over the coffee break, the conversations continued more informally. Students mingled with speakers and alumni, turning curiosity into contacts and shared ambition into camaraderie. The event concluded with a group photo and networking lunch, providing a relaxed space to discuss future plans and build community.

The “Erasmus Mundus First-Hand Experience” event not only delivered practical guidance but also rekindled aspiration. For many attendees, the dream of studying abroad felt closer, more tangible. Thanks to the tireless effort of Mario Vrhovac and the committed partners from WBAA, ESN Sarajevo, and EMA B&H, the event was more than a success—it was a milestone.

Through storytelling, mentorship, and resources, this initiative has reaffirmed the power of the Erasmus community to uplift and empower. The Western Balkans region is poised for even greater participation in Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus, and this event was a clear step in that direction.

By Adaleta Omerbasic

EMA's Country Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina