Refused 49 times, accepted once: my Erasmus+ journey
It was 2AM, and my eyes strained from staring at my inbox. Another rejection email. The 49th one. Every single message almost started the same way: “We regret to inform you…” – and with every line, my hope chipped away a little more. I was so close to shutting my laptop for good, ready to give up on a dream I had been chasing for months. But then, a quiet voice inside me said, “Just one more try.” That one “try” changed everything.
My Erasmus+ journey began with a short video I came across at the ‘Common Sense’ youth organisation in Azerbaijan. Back then, I had no idea how to apply or where to even start looking for projects; everything felt complicated and out of reach. I reached out to nearly 25 people asking for guidance, and only one replied. She was an active participant in Erasmus+ projects, and she was incredible, patiently walking me through the process: how to write a good motivation letter, where to find opportunities, and what to expect.
So I dived in headfirst, watching YouTube tutorials, reading many blog posts, and trying repeatedly and failing. The rejections kept rolling in. Forty-nine times I received that heartbreaking rejection. It made me question myself. Was I good enough? Were my dreams simply too big?
But I kept reminding myself: It only takes one “yes”.
And then it came – my first acceptance, for a training course in Lithuania titled ‘ETSpert: Level Up Your Youth Work Competencies’. I couldn’t believe it. I had never travelled alone before, never held a Schengen visa. Suddenly, I was booking flights, gathering required documents, and preparing for an adventure that was equal parts exciting and terrifying.
When I landed in Lithuania after six hours in the air, everything felt unfamiliar: the cold air, foreign streets, and much more. But as soon as I stepped into a room full of smiling young people from all over the world, my fears began to fade away. I had found a community eager to learn, share, and grow together.
The course introduced me to non-formal education, youth work, and intercultural dialogue. Still, more importantly, it helped me discover who I truly am, what I value, and what I am capable of. One moment stands out: leading a workshop at a local Lithuanian school on setting SMART goals. I was nervous, my hands slightly shaking, but as I spoke, my confidence grew. Seeing those curious faces, I realised I could lead, inspire, and connect even so far from home.
When I returned to Baku after ten unforgettable days, I didn’t just bring back souvenirs; I brought back a mission.
Back home, I organised a follow-up event titled ‘Youth Work Essentials: Principles and Opportunities’ in partnership with a local NGO. With the participation of around 20 young people, I introduced key principles of youth work such as inclusivity, participation, empowerment, and respect for diversity, demonstrating how these values underpin meaningful youth engagement. We discussed practical tools like the Erasmus+ Youthpass, and I guided participants on how to navigate platforms like SALTO Youth and the European Youth Portal to find relevant projects. I also shared key techniques on writing motivation letters that genuinely reflect their passion and experience, increasing chances of acceptance. The session included interactive activities on goal-setting and team collaboration to maintain a dynamic learning environment. By the end, many participants said they felt inspired and equipped to apply for Erasmus+ opportunities themselves.
Since then, my Erasmus+ story has kept growing:
- In Poland, I participated in the Youth for Democracy seminar. We learned about democracy, youth participation, and European values through workshops and discussions. They also informed us about many opportunities and chances for projects. It was one of my most exciting experiences because I saw how young people’s voices can really shape communities.
- In Spain, I took part in Urbanticipation, where I learned about urban sustainability and how cities can change to be more environmentally friendly and liveable. It was interesting to explore how city planning and community actions can help make a better future.
- In Greece, I joined the HOP Online Learning Strategies training. There, I gained new skills to lead digital education and remote workshops. This experience was special for me because it was the first time I was deeply involved in digital youth work. I got to meet others and learn more about the opportunities that SALTO offers to young people and youth workers.
Each project brought new challenges, cultural differences, and responsibilities I wasn’t sure I could manage. I often felt lost or uncertain. But every challenge pushed me to grow, and deepened my self-confidence.
Eventually, I coordinated a local Erasmus+ project in Azerbaijan, supported by EVZ, a German organisation. That was a full-circle moment: giving others the same chance I once fought so hard to find.
Now, as a Young European Ambassador, I proudly represent Azerbaijan, promoting youth engagement and contributing to public diplomacy across Europe. I get to talk to young people all over Europe and beyond, sharing not just my wins, but also tough moments.
To those reflecting on their next steps:
Have you ever been rejected so many times that giving up felt easier? Wondered if you were good enough, or where even to start?
You’re not alone.
If you’re thinking about exploring Erasmus+, here’s what helped in the process:
- Be honest in your motivation letter. Don’t try to impress – try to connect.
- Use websites like SALTO Youth or the European Youth Portal to find projects that fit your interests.
- Don’t fear rejection. Learn from each experience, adjust your applications, and keep going.
- Ask questions. Reach out. Someone will reply – and that someone might even be me.
My Erasmus+ journeys taught me that even the biggest fears and doubts can be overcome.
You just have to take the first step. No journey is too small, and no start is too late.
