Meet Delfina Tamagnini, a true world citizen with a passion for exploring new cultures and languages. Born in Argentina and raised in Spain, Delfina has embraced a life of adventure, from studying in Paris to traveling to Lithuania, where love and curiosity have inspired her to learn one of Europe’s most challenging languages. Join us as she shares her inspiring journey of language learning, cultural discovery, and personal growth through her international experiences.
Can you present and talk a little bit about yourself?
My name is Delfina. I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, but I grew up in Barcelona, Spain. I’m 24 years old, and I studied Advertising and Public Relations.
Can you tell us where you were doing your mobility? How and why did you choose the place to go?
I did my mobility in Paris, France. It was the first year my university had an agreement with a university in Paris, so I decided to apply. France wasn’t originally on my list, but when I saw the opportunity to study in Paris, I got very excited. It also gave me the chance to improve my French.
Before my mobility, I worked abroad in the summers: one summer in London (UK), another in Biarritz (France) at a summer camp, and another in Sofia (Bulgaria) as a receptionist at a hostel. For me, having experiences abroad is about more than just studying; it’s about meeting people from different backgrounds and discovering new cultures.
Source: Delfina’s personal album
What language do you study, and why is it important for you to learn languages?
In Barcelona, we learn both Spanish and Catalan in school, so I grew up speaking two languages. Later, I studied English and French in school. During my Erasmus in Paris, I significantly improved my French, especially in terms of fluency when speaking.
During my mobility, I met my current boyfriend, who is Lithuanian and lives in Vilnius. I visit him every two months, and already have visited more cities in Lithuania: Klaipėda, Palanga, Kaunas, and Trakai. I’ve also spent a lot of time with his family at their countryside house, which inspired me to start studying Lithuanian. His grandparents only speak Lithuanian and Russian, so communication can be challenging.
His grandmother, Vanda, gave me a book for A1-level Lithuanian, and since then, I’ve been using that book, mobile apps, and YouTube to learn. I wanted to start by learning manners and traditions. I even attended the Lithuanian Song Celebration, a major event in Lithuania that happens only once every four years.
In Vilnius, I’ve had great experiences. Whenever I try to speak Lithuanian, people encourage me because they know it’s a difficult language.
Source: Delfina’s personal album
How do you feel when traveling abroad? What are the key points you pay attention to when being in foreign countries?
I was born in one place and grew up in another, so traveling feels natural to me. I’ve moved frequently to visit family, so it’s part of my personality.
When traveling, it’s important for me to learn basic words in the local language and understand the culture to show respect. I enjoy learning about traditions, finding inspiration, and talking to local people, as they are the best guides to understanding a culture.
What advice would you give to someone preparing to go on mobility?
I would definitely recommend going abroad and participating in a mobility program. My advice is to keep an open mind. Everything will be new, and some things might go wrong, but that’s part of the experience.
When I first moved to Paris, my accommodation wasn’t ideal—it was far from the city center. However, once I settled in and met new people, I found a better place through recommendations.
Starting something new often means stepping out of your comfort zone, which can be scary. A new university, program, people, and city can feel overwhelming. Take it slow and enjoy the experience—it’s temporary. You’ll meet great people, discover wonderful places, and have unforgettable experiences.
For me, mobility wasn’t just about academics—it changed my life. I met my boyfriend and one of my best friends through it. You never know the incredible people you’ll meet along the way!
Would you repeat the mobility program in another country? If yes, where would you go?
I would absolutely repeat my mobility program! I’d love to explore the North of Europe, such as Scandinavia or the Baltic countries, because they’re so different from my Mediterranean culture. I’m also curious about Portugal and its unique traditions.
How was your experience getting used to the language?
In France, it can feel intimidating to speak the language because people will often correct your mistakes. However, they are much friendlier when you make the effort to speak French.
I already had a basic knowledge of French before my mobility, but for complete beginners, I’d say it only takes a few weeks to learn enough basics to greet people and order at a café.
During my Erasmus, I mostly spoke English with other Erasmus students and French with my university classmates.
What advice would you give to someone starting to learn a new language?
Immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Listen to songs, watch TV shows, follow podcasts, and use YouTube to get used to the sound and rhythm. Once you start understanding more, your motivation to improve will grow.
The hardest part is the beginning when you don’t understand anything. But with persistence, you’ll improve!
Does OLS help you improve your language level?
OLS is a great tool to test your level and learn more about the language and culture. It connects you with a community of people in the same situation and provides lots of content to explore.
What do you think about the platform? Do you think it is useful, and would you recommend it to Erasmus students?
I think the platform is very useful. It helps students prepare before their mobility, practice during the exchange, and maintain their skills afterward. Staying in touch with the language is key to not forgetting it!
Thank you, Delfina, for such an inspiring story!
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If you want to share your story with us, just let me know in the direct message!
Truly yours,
Karolina, OLS Community Manager - Lithuanian