A new chapter begins – Studying and student life

As part of my studies at DHBW Karlsruhe, I had the opportunity to spend an Erasmus semester in Porto. From mid-September to the end of January, I was able to study at ISCAP University, take five courses, and get to know not only a new university system, but also a completely new way of life.

What impressed me right from the start was the exceptionally strong sense of community among the Portuguese students. Traditions play a big role and you quickly notice that they are proud of them.

Particularly striking are the “trajes,” the traditional black uniforms worn by students. When you walk through the city and see groups singing loudly, laughing, or walking together, you immediately recognize that these are students celebrating their belonging in a visible way.

New students, known as “caloiros,” go through an introductory program. This can take almost a whole year and involves various tasks before they are allowed to wear the traje. At first, this tradition may seem a little unusual, but it creates an impressively strong community.

The lectures were held in English. Sometimes we sat in class with Portuguese students, while some courses consisted exclusively of international students. It was particularly pleasant that the lectures usually didn't start until around 10 a.m., so you could start the day a little later in the morning.

The examination system was also somewhat different from that in Germany: the examinations usually consisted of several smaller tasks such as assignments, presentations, or tests, so that the assessment was spread across various performance records.

 

Living in a student residence 

I myself lived in a student residence during my stay, and the atmosphere there was very special. People from all over the world lived next door to each other, sharing a kitchen, everyday moments, and little adventures.

You get to know new people incredibly quickly because everyone is open, curious, and willing to try new things. There was always someone who would go shopping with you, spontaneously organize dinner, or just want to chat over coffee.

The many events offered by both ISCAP and the Erasmus organizations were also very helpful. Especially in the first week, there was a lot going on: city rallies, get-to-know-you evenings, sporting events, even a surfing course. This made it easy to settle in. In addition, every Erasmus student was assigned a “buddy” who helped with organizational questions and made the first steps in Porto easier. 

 

Discovering Portugal – travel, nature, and culture

Besides my studies, I had enough time to explore the country, and I was really impressed by Portugal.

Lisbon with its steep streets and viewpoints, Nazaré with its famous giant waves that leave you speechless, and the Douro Valley, which looks like a painting with its vineyards.

One highlight was definitely my trip to Madeira. The nature there is really beautiful and offers many different landscapes such as cliffs, forests, and the coast.

 

My personal conclusion 

Looking back on my months in Porto today, I realize how valuable they were. A stay abroad offers the opportunity to gain new perspectives, get to know other cultures, and grow personally: experiences that have a lasting impact far beyond my studies.

Above all, it was the people I had the privilege of meeting there that made this time so special. Many of these encounters have turned into genuine friendships. Thank you to everyone who made this time so special.

My special thanks go to Rutronik and DHBW Karlsruhe. Without their support, this semester abroad would not have been possible.

Porto has shaped me, both academically and personally, and I am incredibly grateful for this time. I can only encourage everyone to take advantage of such an opportunity.