On Thursday, 5 February 2026, La Rochelle Université hosted “Regards croisés : une soirée EU-CONEXUS à la BU”, a cultural and social event organised as part of the IamSTUDENT project. Held in the hall of the University Library, the event aimed to promote the opportunities offered by the EU-CONEXUS alliance while encouraging intercultural dialogue and exchange within the university community.
A Cultural Evening Open to All
Open to students, staff and the wider public, the evening brought together participants from diverse backgrounds to discover EU-CONEXUS initiatives through a combination of cultural activities and informal discussion. Approximately 20 participants attended, contributing to a friendly and interactive atmosphere.
The programme began with the opening of the EU-CONEXUS Photo Contest exhibition, followed by testimonials from former students who shared their experiences of international mobility and campus life. Their personal accounts provided practical insight into the opportunities available through the alliance and highlighted the value of international engagement during university studies.
The exhibition remained open throughout the evening alongside a European buffet featuring culinary specialities from partner countries, creating a welcoming environment for discussion and cultural discovery. The event concluded with a live performance by the Athlantropia Band, further contributing to a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.
A Collaborative and Inclusive Format
Organised collaboratively by the local EU-CONEXUS team, the University Library, and the International and Cultural Departments, the event formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen awareness of European mobility opportunities and foster a sense of shared student identity within the alliance. Although attendance remained intentionally informal and open-access, the library setting allowed the event to reach both planned participants and students visiting the space, extending its visibility beyond the scheduled programme.
Strong Feedback and Lasting Impact
Feedback gathered during the evening highlighted strong interest in mobility opportunities and a particular appreciation for student testimonials, which were perceived as authentic and relatable. The combination of exhibition, cultural activities and social interaction successfully encouraged exchanges between students, staff and international participants.
The EU-CONEXUS Photo Contest exhibition remained installed in the library for one month following the event, ensuring continued visibility of EU-CONEXUS initiatives and prolonging engagement with the university community. During the month of February, approximately 2,100 visitors discovered the exhibition, significantly extending its reach beyond the initial event.
Overall, the event demonstrated the effectiveness of open cultural formats in promoting European cooperation, strengthening intercultural understanding, and reinforcing EU-CONEXUS as an active and accessible student community at La Rochelle Université.
