Moving abroad is always an adventure, but as a journalism student from Antwerp, I wasn’t fully prepared for how different life in Cluj-Napoca would be. From settling into the dorms to experiencing nightlife with names like “Flying Circus,” my first month here has been a whirlwind of unexpected challenges, quirky surprises, and memorable moments.
Checking Into the Dorms
Back home in Antwerp, I’ve always had my own space—a cozy room where I could unwind after long days of classes. So, moving into the dorms here in Cluj-Napoca was a big change. Sharing a room with someone was completely new for me, but I have to admit, the setup isn’t too bad. Each room comes with its own bathroom (thank goodness), and my roommate and I quickly found common ground. Sure, it took some adjusting, but sharing snacks and stories late into the night has made this dorm life oddly comforting.
Studying Among Bathtubs
One of the most unexpected quirks of my first month here is where my classes take place. The building we study in used to be a hotel, and most of the rooms still have bathtubs in them! That’s right—nearly every classroom has a bathtub tucked into the corner, a quirky reminder of the building’s past life. At first, I couldn’t stop staring at the tubs, wondering how on earth they fit into my new life as a journalism student. But now, I’ve started to think of them as part of the charm that makes studying in Cluj so unique.
Finding My People Through ESN
As the only foreigner in my dorm, I knew I’d need to step out of my comfort zone to meet people. Luckily, the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) became my lifeline. Every Wednesday, there’s a meetup at Enigma—a bar with a great vibe and plenty of opportunities to make friends from all over the world. Mondays are for the Flying Circus, a spot that feels like the beating heart of Cluj’s nightlife. Thanks to ESN, I’ve built friendships that make being far from Antwerp feel less lonely and much more exciting.
Exploring the Energy of Cluj
Cluj-Napoca is unlike anywhere I’ve lived before. It’s a city where old meets new—where you can find both serene parks and a vibrant student scene. I’ve spent afternoons hopping between cafés, soaking in the local charm, and figuring out public transport (not always successfully, I’ll admit). The pace of life here feels both relaxed and buzzing with energy—perfect for a journalism student looking to absorb as much as possible.
Lessons Learned So Far
In just a month, I’ve learned a lot about living abroad. Sharing a room has taught me the value of patience (and not hogging the bathroom). ESN events have shown me the power of putting yourself out there, and the city itself has encouraged me to embrace the unexpected. The bathtub-filled classrooms, for example, are now just another quirky detail of my Cluj experience.This city has so much to offer, and I can’t wait to see what stories I’ll be telling by the time my exchange is over.
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