Shifting Perspectives: How an Erasmus+ Traineeship in Riga Transformed Andrea’s Approach to Social Sciences
Andrea Garbarini (23), a final-year Master’s student in Disaster and Health Crisis Management from the University of Eastern Piedmont in Italy, recently spent three months as an first Erasmus+ trainee at the Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) Social Sciences Research Centre (SSRC). In this interview, conducted by Ilona Vilumsone, communication project manager at the RSU, Andrea shares how stepping out of his comfort zone and choosing the Baltic region brought unexpected data for his master's thesis, improved his public speaking, and completely changed his perception of academic hierarchy.
Choosing the Baltics: A Strategic Move Driven by Curiosity
What made you choose Latvia and RSU for your Erasmus+ traineeship?
It was a mix of strong curiosity and a clear academic focus. Since I am specializing in disaster and crisis management, I was closely following the geopolitical situation and knew that the Baltic States, and Latvia in particular, are among the strongest supporters of Ukraine. For my field of study, this region is currently one of the most interesting cases in Europe. I wanted to combine discovering a new place with gathering valuable research data, and RSU provided the perfect environment for that.
When I told my mom I was going to Latvia, her first reaction was, "Oh, it’s so close to Russia!". Being here, you clearly see that the Baltic States are firmly integrated into the EU and NATO, and the environment feels incredibly safe, organized, and stable.
Combining Local Research with Global Context
You spent three months working at the Social Sciences Research Centre (SSRC). What were your main tasks, and did you manage to get the data you were looking for?
Absolutely, I managed to combine my tasks at the Centre with my own master's thesis preparation. I was investigating crisis and diversity dynamics, and I had the chance to interview local professors regarding the sociolinguistic perceptions and multicultural co-existence in Riga. Coming from Italy, it was fascinating to witness two languages living together in public spaces so seamlessly.
Scientifically, I also collaborated on several ongoing projects at the SZPC. For example, I prepared an international report on economic course curricula and analyzed university class feedback. I also had the opportunity to step slightly out of my comfort zone by working with RSU Professor and Senior Researcher Mikelis Grivins on a sustainable food systems project utilizing the quadruple helix concept. It allowed me to adapt my research skills to a new field, which was an incredibly valuable experience.
A Flatter Hierarchy and Practical Focus
How would you describe the academic and research culture at RSU compared to your experiences in Italy?
One of the strongest things I noticed here is the heavy focus on practical skills that align directly with the job market. In Italy, university education is highly theoretical. You learn a vast amount of theory, but when you enter the workforce, you often struggle because you lack practical implementation skills. RSU changes that dynamic.
Another major and very positive surprise was the flat professional hierarchy. In Italy, there is a very strict distance between a trainee and a professor or PhD holder. At RSU, if the office door is open, you can just walk in, ask a question, and get help. The working environment is highly efficient and independent, yet you always know you can count on your colleagues if you hit a roadblock.
Breaking the "Cultural Barrier" and Finding Connection
Did you experience any major culture shocks while living in Rīga?
At the very beginning, the main culture shock was how calm and quiet people are. In the Mediterranean, we are used to immediate small talk and loud interactions. Here, people don't talk just for the sake of talking, and there can be an initial barrier. However, I quickly learned that this is not rudeness, but it’s just a deeply rooted cultural trait. Once you get to know people even better, they open completely and become incredibly friendly and helpful.
I also discovered the historical context behind it, like the Baltic Way, which showed me that while Latvians might seem reserved individually, they possess an incredible strength to instantly unite when facing a big, shared challenge.
Personal Growth: Public Speaking and New Independence
Looking back at the entire traineeship, what is the single achievement you are most proud of?
My growth in English communication and public speaking. This was my very first time moving outside of Italy for work rather than a holiday, and initially, I was quite anxious about whether I could manage it. During my time here, I had to present a comprehensive report on Italian marketing education in front of several professors. Having no choice but to speak English every single day completely broke my fear, and I feel significantly more confident now. It gave me a new level of professional independence and responsibility.
What is your number one piece of advice for other international students who are considering an Erasmus+ placement at RSU?
Be yourself and don’t be scared of facing a culture that seems different from yours. It takes a little bit of time to adapt, but you will be absolutely fine. Most importantly, don't be afraid to ask for help! Even if people here are quiet, they are incredibly serious about their commitments. If someone at RSU tells you an email will take two days, it will take exactly two days. That level of reliability makes life and work here so much easier.
