Croatian Learning Community and Resources

 ❝ My Language Learning Journey ❞ / Carlo Peraza 

Carlo Peraza, a young Mexican adventurer and International Business graduate from UNAM, is passionate about swimming, cycling, ping-pong, and learning languages. His Erasmus+ journey took him from Hungary to Croatia, a place he fell for unexpectedly. Now working in circularity innovation, he dreams of returning to Croatia, the country that taught him the value of connection and opened his eyes to a world of possibilities. Let’s leave Carlo to tell us more about himself! 

Hi, Carlo! Could you tell us a bit about yourself for the OLS Croatian community?  

Hello! Yes of course. I’m Carlo. I am Mexican who loves swimming, biking, playing ping-pong and learning new languages! I studied International Business at UNAM, the biggest university in Mexico and one of the most important in Latin America. Also, I had the privilege of representing UNAM as an exchange student in the EU, I spent 6 months in the University of Debrecen, the most international school in Hungary, where I learnt so many things about business but most importantly about Europe and myself. Currently I work in the chemical industry in an American company that does specialty materials, currently shifting into circularity innovation. 

Source: Carlo Peraza, UNAM, Mexico 

Why did you choose to visit Croatia for your Erasmus+ experience in Hungary, and what initially drew you to Croatia? 

Well, being completely honest, it wasn’t my idea at all! (hahaha). A friend of mine convinced me of accompanying her to Croatia, she had this dream of knowing this country I knew nothing about, then I finally gave in and accepted to go with her. 

What was your first impression when you arrived? 

This completely odd and unfamiliar language everyone was speaking (my ears were just starting to get familiar with Hungarian), this food that was so different but so familiar at the same time… I remember being shocked that there were people selling corn at the street just like in Mexico! Except they didn’t put any mayo and chili on it, sad. People seemed very religious and friendly; I felt like this country was so special in its very own way.  

Did you experience any cultural similarities in Croatia that were surprising or memorable? 

I remember this lady on the bus that could not stop laughing on the phone, I found that very funny as this happens all the time in Mexican buses. Of course, being so late at 3 a.m. after a while I wanted that lady to hang up the call, but I guess she was having a great time. Either way, I slept until we arrived. 

Source: Carlo Peraza, Mexico 

Were there any festivals, events, or traditions in Croatia that you particularly enjoyed? 

There was a wedding happening when we decided to go visit Dubrovnik, lots of people showing off the Croatian flag with pride and lots of cars celebrating just outside the church, it looked fun! 

What’s one hidden gem that you’d recommend to other Erasmus+ participants? 

They should try burek, it is really tasty. Oh, and the ice cream was great also. And of course, just walking up the street, and discovering yourself. 

How did you balance your studies or work responsibilities with exploring the country? 

Just planning ahead, it’s always possible to make some space for cultural discovery.  

Did you notice any differences between European and your home country’s educational or work environments? 

 I don’t want to speak badly of what Europeans learning style is… but definitely we are not as behind as we think in Latin America. I discovered that we are very hard working and very dedicated to going the extra mile. I am very proud of the quality of students I realized we are. This is a common thing many of my friends that were abroad saw. 

How would you describe the people? Was there anything about their lifestyle that you admired? 

I would describe Croatians as hard working and free people. 

Source: Carlo Peraza, UNAM, Mexico 

Did you have any funny or memorable stories from your time there? 

I rowed the Adriatic Sea; it was so beautiful I still remember that day as being so fun. 

What’s the most unexpected thing you learned about Croatia during your stay? 

Apparently, many of them understand when you speak Spanish! I think it’s because they watch telenovelas which I find so impressive and hilarious. 

How did the Erasmus+ experience change your perspective on life, education, or work? 

My time as an exchange student changed my perspective on life. I learned to be self-dependent, to help others in need. I learned to listen and to speak when it is right. Thanks to this experience I know how valuable my country is and how we can actually change the world. 

Were there any moments or achievements during your program that you’re especially proud of? 

I’m proud of a presentation I did in our European Union class. I talked about international commerce in Mexico and special tariffs that were being set at that moment, and I talked about the EU-Mexico treaty. The professor liked it very much and my classmates, that were from all over the world, seemed to like it also. 

Source: Carlo Peraza, Zagreb, Trg Kralja Tomislava, Croatia 

 Did you pick up any new hobbies or interests while living there? 

Oh yes, thermal baths. I became an addict; I still miss going to the thermal baths so much. 

What advice would you give to someone preparing for their first mobility program? 

Try not to have much of an expectation. 

How did the Erasmus+ program help you grow as a person? 

In so many ways, it made me more open and determined. 

We understood you are learning Croatian actively, tell us how is that going and what did you find challenging? 

Yes! It is going well; I find it challenging sometimes finding series of movies with subtitles but with enough practice I will not need that eventually. 

What do you thing about the OLS platform? Are you using the OLS platform activelly and how did it help to learn your Croatian and other languages? 

I think it is a great tool. I have found it great to complement my language study. I am using actively this platform, and it was the first time I actually did a placement test to see how well I'm doing with my Croatian. OLS has been helpful to broaden my scope and better my proficiency with Croatian language!  

Is there a particular Croatian word, phrase, or tradition that stuck with you? 

Marenda- similar to our main breakfast here… We love eating here. 

Is there someone you met during your time who had a significant impact on you? 

My roommate in the dormitory. Thanks to him I learned to not judge a book by its cover. 

How did the mobility program shape your outlook on international collaboration or cultural exchange? 

Strongly, now I always think of my career in terms of international collaboration. It’s a new perspective I won’t ever lose. 

What’s the one thing you’ll miss the most about Croatia? 

The safety definitively. You could walk anywhere feeling safe. 

As you told me, you are hoping to relocate to Croatia, tell us little more about it. 

I would love to spend some time in Croatia. With time, I will know the right opportunity will come to me and I will make this dream come true.