Cynthia Daoud and Zeina Shoujaa, two Translation and Interpretation students at Notre Dame University Louaize (NDU), were sent by the Faculty of Humanities, the Department of English and Translation, and the Office of International Affairs to Ca’ Foscari University in Venice, Italy, as Erasmus+ Exchange students.
The students had the chance to participate in an enriching cultural exchange and immersive learning experience in the Italian community with other students from diverse educational and geographical backgrounds.
Cynthia Daoud was grateful for having the chance to participate in the exchange program. She stated, “A year away from graduating with a Bachelor’s degree, my experience in the exchange program has not only helped me further elaborate my skills in Translation, but also gave me in-depth and immersive practice in a new culture. It was truly a unique opportunity to be part of a new education environment in one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Italy.”
Zeina Shoujaa explained, “Not only was I fortunate enough to visit one of the most beautiful places in the world, but I was also blessed to be given the opportunity to physically attend classes after a long wait and engage in life outside of home. I am extremely thankful and grateful that I was chosen to take part in this program since it allowed me to reshape my life and reassemble my future goals and aspirations.”
As Erasmus+ exchange students, they also had the chance to be part of the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) of Venice that organizes extracurricular activities and trips around Venice and other areas in the Veneto region. Through international agreements, NDU aims to give its students the opportunity to explore the world, thereby enriching their knowledge and interacting with various cultures.