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.
What are you currently studying, and what inspired you to choose this field?
I am a 20-year-old third-year bachelor’s student in Computer Engineering at Politehnica University Timișoara. I have always been fascinated by innovation and the constant evolution of the digital era. As we continue to build a stronger connection with digital tools and artificial intelligence, I am deeply intrigued by how we can embrace and shape this transformation. In addition to my main field of study, I enjoy broadening my skills in various directions and exploring interdisciplinary areas.
Over the past year, I have also focused my efforts on civic engagement and student representation, as I currently serve as the Vice President for Foreign Affairs of my student league, Liga AC. Furthermore, I am active in the field of management, where I work as a project manager for Erasmus+ KA152 projects, helping young people discover new interests and develop their soft skills through diverse activities.
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 – University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten
🠐 Back to E³UDRES² Voices
