Javier Núñez

Hi! my name is Javier Núñez. I studied a Physics degree in the University of Valladolid, Spain, and I spent my 4th year doing an Erasmus in Catania from September to July of 2016.

I arrived in Catania alone without knowing much about the place and the language, and it was the best decision I have ever made. It only took me a few weeks to feel that I belong to this city, to Sicily, and to speak a new language. I found new family of friends with the same excitement for getting to know new places and meet new people.

It was a good year also in the academic part, I really enjoyed to study with different methodologies and teachers, and I really appreciate the support I received from the university and my colleagues. I was able to pass my exams, and graduate one year after.

It is amazing how a few months can change you so deeply, to feel more confident and grow personally. I learned so much about the closeness and happiness of the Sicilians. it was a big contrast to my hometown.

Once I was asked by two kids if we could see the Etna from Spain, now I understand why that concern. It is one of the things I miss more (apart from the food), to look around and find the company of the volcano. I have come back to Catania twice in these 6 years, and I can’t wait to visit Catania again.