Due to Covid 19 pandemic, many students may be worried or thinking about the importance of the Erasmus program in the post-covid era. We remain optimistic and support both Students and the Erasmus program by presenting student experiences and reports from ESN (Erasmus Student Network), which can help or answer significant questions such as “Why study abroad?”
Why Study Abroad?
Studying abroad is an amazing experience. It is unique from the personal as well as academic point of view. Being for a few months in an international environment is the best opportunity to establish intercultural contacts, have a valuable insight into a different culture, learn a language and grow as a person
Benefits of an exchange period abroad
There are four main traits of those who passed some time at the university abroad:
- they are culturally competent,
- many speak foreign languages and possess good communication skills,
- they are mobile
- they develop their personality.
Opinions of students who came back from abroad
“My year participation in the Erasmus exchange was highly enjoyable, exciting experience, which broadened my mind, and exceeded all of my expectations.”
Timothy, English (studied in the Netherlands)
“One of the best years in my life, if not the best.”
Maria, Spanish (studied in Sweden)
“This experience might be a bit scary, but for sure needs to be done by every university student. Especially from those faculties (like Economy) after which one will participate in the global market, where the languages are extremely important.”
Davide, Italian (studied in England)
“Because this is a spectacular experience that enriches you, that opens you mind, that changes you. Everyone should do it! Do not think twice, but leave!”
Anna, Italian (studied in Portugal)
“What did I most appreciate? Different things: you meet new and different people, different cultures, different ways of life… You can also visit new countries, new cities… From educational point of view, it’s a new and very interesting experience.”
Eva, Spanish (studied in Sweden)
More info : https://esn.org/why-study-abroad
As a language student, I think the Erasmus is a life-changing experience. Participating in the Erasmus programme means visiting new cities, discovering new cultures, meeting different people and improving a language, but it also helps you to become more independent and to have confidence in yourself. Unfortunately this year, because of the pandemic, I could not leave, but I want to be optimistic and I trust I can share with you my future experience as an Erasmus student. Thank you Anastasia for not making me lose hope!
Thank you for your comment Claudia!
I know ,during the pandemic period everything was really difficult ! However , I think the new era after that will be totally bright and new . So what we have to do, is to prepare ourselves , make space for the change and get ready to adapt ! Wish you luck and all the best!
In Poland it was used to say that Erasmus is not a project, but a way of thinking. Whoever becomes Erasmus once, will always be. Erasmus + is not only about studies, internships, trainings, lectures, etc. Erasmus + is the perfect way to connect people, break down the walls that divide us, and build an open community. The experiences are remarkable. The students who come back share their memories, encourage others to leave and plan their own adventures. The first trip under the Erasmus + program is a preview of the next ones. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this great opportunity which is Erasmus +.
Thank you very much for your comment Krystian! I tottally agree with you! Erasmus is a life experience and definitely an amazing opportunity for everyone who wants discover , explore and interact with new cultures , people and establish a new community where you can share interact and develop your knowledge and your skills in a wider level!
Exactly – Once Erasmus, Always Erasmus.
Students sometimes hesitate to leave or not. Once they decide to go out, they never regret it and look for more and more ways to travel abroad.
I myself participated in the Erasmus as a student and it was one of the best decisions of my life.
Thank you for your comment Jitka ! You are totally right , and is totally understandable the feeling of fear as it something strange . However , we are here to support and overcome any obstacles , by providing the knowledge and the experiences of Erasmus to everyone who may need help or support!
Totally agree. Next, I transcribe Carlota Armillas Mateos opinion about ERSAMUS, the best of my students!
“I think that my Erasmus experience has been one of the most incredible times of my life, that’s why I would recommend all students to try go on Erasmus!
The Erasmus experience is awesome to open your mind, become braver and more independent. It will help you be more flexible and get valuable soft skills for your future work, as you will learn how to adapt to a different country, and study and live with multinational/multicultural people.
Icing on the cake, the Erasmus is incredibly fun, you’ll make long-lasting friendships and live amazing anecdotes!”