Author: Sara Celso
Date of Publication: 22/09/2022
Every student during their university career has to make an important choice: should I go on Erasmus?
The Erasmus+ programme started in 1987 and it stands for European Region Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students. The Dutch humanist, Erasmus of Rotterdam, travelled around Europe to discover different cultures, and his adventures embody the spirits of this programme.
Erasmus+ is the EU’s programme to support education, training, youth, and sport in Europe. Through the collaboration between more than 4000 European and non-European universities, students can choose to study at a foreign university for a period of up to 12 months. Erasmus+ has an estimated budget of €26.2 billion. Thanks to these funds students receive a monetary contribution to support their experience abroad (fully or partially). The Erasmus+ programme also offers the possibility to do an internship in the destination country, under the same conditions as Erasmus for studies.
Reasons to pack your suitcase and choose Erasmus+
1. You will learn a new language
It is known that the best way to learn a language is to listen to it and speak it in everyday life. During your Erasmus you can do so. In addition, because of the internationality of the experience, you will be in contact with students from all over the world. This means that you will have the opportunity to practice more than one foreign language and improve your language skills.
2. You will make new friends
The experience of Erasmus often stands for friendship. You will meet people from all over the world, with whom you can exchange ideas and opinions. These people will also be in your same situation - meaning in a foreign country, far from home, and with so much hope and fear. Unity is strength, so taking a journey like this can be the key to an unforgettable experience.
3. You will experience a different culture
Choosing Erasmus and approaching new cultures allows you to open your mind. You will get to know the culture of a new country, its traditions, and customs. Also, you will become a citizen of the world, with a rich cultural background and a lot of incredible memories.
4. You will make your CV more attractive
Everyone knows that the job market is becoming more competitive. A resume that presents experiences abroad is always a good place to start for two reasons: (1) the language skills you have acquired, and (2) the increased sense of adaptation that living abroad has taught you. These are characteristics that, in the working world, most recruiters value and look for.
5. You will learn how to be independent
Getting out of your comfort zone can be very challenging. Away from your home, friends, and family, you’ll have to learn to take care of yourself. You will be able to find your independence and maturity along with fellow travellers who will face similar challenges.
6. You will get to know yourself
Being out of your everyday life can be an opportunity to make an introspective journey. Erasmus, in fact, gives you the opportunity to be alone with your thoughts and to reflect. You will have the chance to clarify your ideas, find new beliefs and make important life choices. The journey with Erasmus is therefore not only a physical journey, but also a journey toward the self!
7. You will learn to solve problems by yourself
Not everything will be alright all the time. Some problems and difficulties may actually arise throughout your journey. What is certain though, is that you will learn how to deal with those problems and pick yourself up. Erasmus is a full-fledged school of life: it forges character and makes you stronger.
It is important to specify that everyone’s experience with Erasmus+ is different. Nevertheless, it would be silly to deny the many opportunities and beneficial experiences that Erasmus+ can bring to university students - both personally and academically. So if you are looking for a new adventure, learning new skills, and meeting new people, the Erasmus+ programme is right for you!
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