Another important part of my stay was meeting the school’s IT professionals. They showed me the technical equipment used by teachers and students alike, the roles these smart devices play in the delicate process of education, and explained how they manage the school’s computers, smartboards, and various inventory softwares. I could see just how important technology is today for learning and for effective management of various kinds at other institutions outside of ours as well. I also learned about how they keep their digital systems safe (as in free of viruses and malware) and constantly updated.

During the first days, I was given a tour of the school building and learned about its history. I was told that the building was once used as a military hospital during World War II, when the Nazis invaded Italy. The town of Assisi was spared for its cultural and religious significance, in exchange of the surrounding area and many of its buildings functioning as a logistical center away from the frontlines. This only made the place more awe-inspiring in my eyes.

One of the places that impressed me most was the school library. It is not just a room full of books; it is also designed as a place where students can meet, relax, and work together. The teachers explained that the library is an important element of the school, meant to encourage students to engage in the act of learning and reading as well. It also plays an important role in student life, acting like a small community center within the school where pupils are always welcome to stay outside of teaching hours as well.

As part of my program, I visited several classes, especially English and literature lessons. I watched how students give their presentations in front of the class, often preparing at home and with the usage of digital tools. I was also given a glimpse into how the school welcomes Erasmus students from other European countries. These students are included in normal lessons and activities as standard procedure.

Interacting and conversing with teachers and students as well was also an insightful aspect of my visit and week-long stay. The students told me about their everyday school life, the challenges they face, and their hopes for university and future jobs. Many of them spoke about the pressure they feel when preparing for the final exams and the difficulty of being accepted to a prestigious institution in the country. Teachers also shared their experiences, including how they try to keep students motivated and how they deal with the daily difficulties of the inclusions of students with special needs in the classroom.

Outside of school, I also joined cultural incursions with other Erasmus groups from France and Sweden. Our trips included visiting the nearby towns of Spoleto, Perugia and Spello. Ienjoyed learning about the culture and traditions of Assisi and the region of Umbria. These activities helped all of us get to know each other better and share experiences of Erasmus programmes, both abroad and back at home at our sending institutions.