In this interview, we meet Mihai Popescu, a third-year Computer Engineering student at Politehnica University Timișoara and Vice-Chair of the E³UDRES² Student Executive Board. Passionate about innovation and the digital era, Mihai combines his studies with civic engagement and project management for Erasmus+ initiatives, helping young people develop new skills. His E³UDRES² journey began with joining the Local Student Board and later participating in an I Living Lab in Finland, where he experienced unforgettable moments like witnessing the Northern Lights. Mihai believes E³UDRES² offers students a unique space for collaboration, cultural diversity, and personal growth.
How did you first get involved with E³UDRES²?
I first heard about E³UDRES² through an email I received on my university account, announcing the opportunity to join the Local Student Board at UPT. Since I was already passionate about international collaboration and had previous experience in that area, I immediately felt excited to learn more about the alliance. I wanted to help students connect to an international environment and broaden their horizons.
I signed up to join the Local Board, and later enrolled in an I Living Lab in Jyväskylä in March 2025...and the rest is history!
What has been the most memorable experience for you within the E³UDRES² community?
I travel quite often and have always been fascinated by Nordic countries. However, despite visiting Norway and Iceland, I had never seen the Northern Lights. That changed during my time in Finland with E³UDRES².
One evening, during the I Living Lab, we planned to meet by a nearby frozen lake to watch the aurora. We were supposed to gather at 23:00, but I decided to go for a walk earlier to see the place. I remember it vividly, it was March 26th, 2025, at 21:46, when intense solar activity began. The sky exploded in colours. It was breathtaking. Witnessing the Northern Lights for the first time was truly magical, and I will always associate that moment with E³UDRES².
What advice would you give to other students who want to get involved in E³UDRES²?
Do it! You have nothing to lose and so much to gain, new places to discover, inspiring people to meet, and countless opportunities to grow. Through E³UDRES², you’ll experience a new perspective on education, one built on connection, collaboration, and cultural diversity.
It’s a space where people from different backgrounds come together to share knowledge, support each other, and work toward common goals. That’s the true spirit of E³UDRES²: cooperation, learning, and personal growth. It’s an experience that helps every participant evolve into a better version of themselves.
Interview by USTP
