First Week in Perpignan

I arrived in Perpignan late at night, after a long journey that left me both exhausted and buzzing with excitement. The city felt peaceful under the glow of the streetlamps, quiet except for the occasional hum of distant cars. It was strange to step into a place so new, so different, and yet somehow full of possibility.

There we were — ten strangers, wandering unfamiliar streets at four in the morning. I didn’t know them, they didn’t know me, and as the cool air wrapped around us, I couldn’t help wonder about everything that might unfold.

The next morning, I joined some of the other Erasmus students for a trip to Collioure. What made this trip extra special was that the people I’m staying with here are also Maltese, but we didn’t know each other before arriving. It’s funny that meeting familiar accents in a foreign country feels like a little anchor in the middle of the unknown.

We were all strangers at first, but already sharing this unique experience.

Collioure welcomed us with its beautiful, pebbly beach and bright sunshine. It was my very first swim in France, and stepping into the cool, clear water was a shock to the senses, refreshing, a little bracing, but wonderfully real. The pebbles beneath my feet were smooth and cool, and the sun warmed my skin like a gentle reminder that I was somewhere new, somewhere alive.

Something is grounding about that moment, being in the water, feeling the textures beneath you, the warmth and chill mingling together. It made me feel connected, not just to the place but to this whole adventure I’m beginning.

Even though I was surrounded by new people, friends and faces, there were moments when I felt alone. That mix of being physically near others but emotionally distant is something many Erasmus students probably know well. Being in a new country, away from home and everything familiar, can feel isolating, even in a crowd. I was careful about everything I did, how I spoke, how I behaved, wanting to make a good impression, to fit in, to not stand out in the wrong way. It’s that quiet pressure of starting fresh that I’m sure others understand.

But those feelings shifted day by day. Slowly, the conversations grew easier, and the laughs came more naturally. We started cooking together, hanging out, going out and enjoying each other’s company. We shared stories about Malta and our hometowns and started to feel like a little community. Pushing myself out of my shell wasn’t always easy, but it felt worth it when I saw people opening up in return.

There’s also a kind of bittersweet uncertainty that comes with this experience. I’m not sure yet if I’ll stay here longer or return home. Watching others who seem confident, settled, already enjoying their time here sometimes makes me feel behind. But I’m learning that everyone moves at their own pace. My story is just beginning, and that’s okay.

Over the week, I had the chance to talk to Erasmus students from other countries too, hearing their stories gave me new perspectives on what it means to be far from home and trying to find your place in a new culture. Each conversation added a new layer to my understanding and eased the sense of being alone in this journey.

One of the highlights was speaking with Kate, who helped me understand what to expect from my upcoming internship. Suddenly, everything started to feel more real and achievable. The ball is rolling, and I’m ready to step into this next chapter with an open mind and a hopeful heart.

So here I am now, still finding my footing, still learning to call this place home for the next month or so. I’m writing this article as the start of my future with P‑O Life magazine, and I hope you’ll enjoy the stories and moments I’ll share along the way.

And for those who are curious, Erasmus is a student exchange program that lets young people from across Europe work in another country for a few months. It’s all about stepping outside your comfort zone, meeting new people, and learning.

Catch you soon!

Hi, I’m Juliana — a 21-year-old journalism student from Malta, now exploring the world one story at a time. I’m currently doing an Erasmus experience with Kate, at PO Life magazine. When I’m not chasing headlines or snapping photos, you’ll find me diving into local culture, youth issues, and all the moments that often go unnoticed. I’m all about sharing stories that connect us, whether through words or pictures.