Two UAB students share their experience at the ECIU University Forum 2026

Students from the Faculty of Communication Sciences Ona Cadafalch Pallach and Paula de Diego Cabré took part in the 30th edition of the ECIU University Forum, held from 15 to 17 June in Aveiro, Portugal. After sharing their experience in the article "UAB brings its voice to the ECIU University Forum 2026," they now reflect on what participating in this international event has meant to them, both academically and personally, and discuss the importance of collaboration between European universities.

• How would you describe your experience at the ECIU Forum 2026?

It was a truly enriching experience. Beyond the talks and workshops, the most valuable part was spending three days with students, lecturers and researchers from different countries and disciplines. It is a space where ideas flow naturally and where you realise that, despite the differences between universities and education systems, we share many of the same challenges and concerns. I also enjoyed seeing that learning does not stop in the classroom but continues through conversations during meals, while travelling between activities or during social events.

• What was the moment or activity that left the biggest impression on you during your time in Aveiro?

Although there were many activities, conferences and memorable moments, I would choose the first evening on the beach. We went to watch the sunset, although the sun barely appeared because it was cloudy, and we shared a cosy dinner with around a hundred people who were also attending the forum. It became a key moment for the rest of the event, as it was our first opportunity to meet people from all over Europe and form the group that stayed together throughout the forum. The beach dinner and the sunset marked a turning point: connecting with others, finding your people among the crowd and creating friendships that, without even realising it, last well beyond those three days.

• What do you take away from this experience, both academically and personally?

Academically, I take away a different way of understanding education, one that is much more focused on collaboration, critical thinking and solving real-world challenges. It was very interesting to discover teaching methods that are not so common in our environment and to see how other universities are putting them into practice. On a personal level, what I value most are the people I met. Sharing this experience with people from such diverse cultures and backgrounds broadens your perspective and reminds you that university is also a place to build meaningful relationships and learn from others.

• Why do you think it is valuable to take part in an international initiative such as the ECIU University Forum?

I believe participating in an international initiative like this is extremely valuable because it allows you to discover different perspectives on the challenges facing universities and society, while also exploring new ways of working and innovating. The talks provide opportunities to learn and gain new insights into education, while the social activities encourage the exchange of experiences and the creation of connections with people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Experiences like this broaden your horizons and inspire you to become involved in international initiatives in the future.

• What would you say to a UAB student who is considering taking part in a future edition?

I would tell them to go for it without hesitation. It is a great opportunity to step outside the usual university routine and discover new ways of learning and understanding higher education. You do not need to be an expert in any particular subject or know anyone beforehand—everyone arrives eager to share, learn and meet new people. It is an international experience that allows you to build connections, practise languages and return home not only with fresh ideas, but also with memories and friendships that would be difficult to make in any other setting.