Warm Welcomes, Languages, Learning, Lasting Connections and One Unforgettable Week in Tallinn
Elsa Llansola, English teacher at the EOI Castellón, reflects on her Erasmus+ mobility at Tallinn University, where a week of classroom observations and professional exchange quickly grew into something far more meaningful. Her engaging account takes the reader from inspiring lessons to genuine intercultural connections, showing how languages, learning, and human warmth can create lasting bonds—even within just one unforgettable week in Tallinn.
During my recent Erasmus+ mobility at Tallinn University, I had the opportunity to spend a week observing classes, exchanging ideas with colleagues, and experiencing academic life in a completely different educational context. What I expected to be a professionally enriching experience quickly became something far more meaningful on both a personal and human level.
As an English teacher at the EOI Castellón, one of the highlights of my stay was being able to attend such a wide variety of classes. I observed A2, B2, and C1 Spanish language courses, as well as classes on Spanish-speaking cultures, and I was genuinely amazed by the students’ level of Spanish and knowledge not only of Spain, but also of English-speaking countries and cultures. The thoughtful and surprisingly specific questions they asked reflected a real curiosity and a deep interest in the Spanish language. Their enthusiasm made every classroom visit feel dynamic, engaging, and memorable. I was welcomed warmly from the very first moment and, perhaps unexpectedly, I even found myself learning new things about my own language and culture!
I also had the chance to attend two ESP (English for Specific Purposes) classes, which I found especially interesting. In many ways, they took me back to my own university years and reminded me how stimulating it can be to approach language through specialized and professional contexts. The atmosphere in those classes was both intellectually engaging and incredibly welcoming, making it very easy to feel part of the group from the start.
Another memorable part of my stay was attending classes on English phonetics and language varieties, an area that has always fascinated me. I was impressed not only by the depth and detail of the lessons, but also by the passion and expertise behind the teaching. Those classes were so engaging that I honestly felt I could have happily continued attending them for an entire semester!
Beyond the academic experience itself, what I will remember most is the warmth, kindness, and professionalism of everyone I met. Every teacher and student I encountered contributed to creating an environment where I felt genuinely welcome and included. Experiences like Erasmus+ are a powerful reminder that education extends far beyond the classroom: they create connections between institutions, cultures, and people across Europe, while strengthening our shared sense of openness, collaboration, and European citizenship.
The collaboration between Tallinn and Castellón has already created valuable connections over the past years, and I am certain that many more exchanges, projects, and shared experiences still lie ahead of us. Our doors at EOI Castellón will always remain open to colleagues and students from Tallinn.
And finally, although Tallinn may be known for its cold weather, I have rarely felt such warmth anywhere else.
