My name is Eva Hanaphy, and I’m currently studying radio and podcasting at City of Dublin FET College, Ballyfermot, Southwest Campus. This year, | was incredibly lucky to be selected for and funded Erasmus+ mobility programme, an opportunity that took me to two countries I’d never imagined visiting: Finland and Estonia. What unfolded over those few weeks abroad was nothing short of transformative, both personally and professionally.
The Erasmus+ experience was far more than just a change of scenery. As a media student, I found the programme especially valuable because it focused on the growing influence of social media and digital platforms across all industries. We explored how these tools are being harnessed in innovative ways worldwide, not just to promote content, but to shape narratives, amplify voices, and build communities. It was inspiring to learn from experts who are at the cutting edge of this ever-evolving landscape. Their insights gave me a whole new outlook on where the industry is heading and how | might position myself within it. What struck me most was the global perspective.
Being in Finland and Estonia, two countries known for their progressive approaches to technology and education, allowed me to experience how differently things can be done, and how much we can learn from each other. From the moment we landed, I was soaking up new ideas, approaches, and ways of thinking that challenged my assumptions and sparked new ambitions. Before this, neither Finland nor Estonia was on my list of must-see places, but that’s part of what made the experience s special. Discovering these countries through the Erasmus+ lens not as a tourist, but as a learner made the journey even more meaningful. | had the chance to meet people from all over Europe, share stories, compare cultures, and come away with a deeper appreciation for the world outside Ireland.
One of the biggest takeaways for me was how important it is to step outside your comfort zone. Ireland is a brilliant place to grow up and study, but it’s easy to forget how small our bubble can be. When you get out into the wider world, your perspective shifts. You start to see your own country differently, what’s working, what could change, and how you might be a part of that change. It’s not always easy to be the one who starts the conversation, but I’ve learned that growth begins when you open your mind to something new. That’s exactly what the Erasmus+ programme offers: a chance to explore, connect, and think differently. It’s not just about travel, it’s about transformation. I’d encourage any young person, especially those in further education, to grab an opportunity like this with both hands. You never know how it might change your life or what ideas you’ll bring back with you.
This experience has inspired me not only to look beyond borders but also to think more boldly about the kind of media | want to create. And for that, Il always be grateful to Erasmus+, and to the staff at City of Dublin FET College Ballyfermot for making it all possible.
Voices from Ballyfermot Road, Southwest Campus: Erasmus Through the Eyes of Our Team
We are delighted in Ballyfermot Road, Southwest Campus to have the largest Erasmus plus project in City of Dublin Education and Training board. This year we are sending approximately 70 students to Malta, Finland, Spain, Germany and Portugal. Students travelling are from animation, media, business visual effects, gaming and art courses. Erasmus is a life changing experience for our learners who travel abroad for a minimum of 2 weeks to work in industry led and vocationally relevant placements. Employers now value transversal skills such as communication, teamwork and autonomy- our learners develop these skills while away which makes them incredibly employable for their future careers.
Caroline McKenna, Erasmus+ Coordinator
Erasmus+ offers students an invaluable opportunity to broaden their horizons, both personally and professionally.