Scholarship programs like Artifact Exchange appreciate a great opportunity to take their education to the next level by learning in world-class universities. It is imperative to prepare properly in order to grasp the opportunity to the fullest. In this article, all the pointers that are likely to help you prepare for your Erasmus trip are covered.
- Make the Research on the intended University and the Country
Before taking the leap, it is necessary to know what courses your intended university offers, as well as what the campus looks like. You should also focus on culture and social life and learning a few phrases of the local language can change the game entirely.
Practical Tips:
• Take a look at student guides and details of the university’s sites.
• Participate in social groups of Erasmus and learn about their experiences.
• Research the different cultures and manners so that you do not feel out of place.
- Handle Your Visa Application and Documents
There is a bit of reporting, documents preparation and appointments of meetings including the visa handling, so best to have all of the documents in advance. Everything from a learning agreement to the visa are mandatory.
Checklist:
• Learning Agreement: Ensure that the courses you will take are in accordance with the study program, with the assistance of your academic instructor.
• Visa and Passport: Investigate whether a visa will be necessary, and that your passport will still be valid at some point during travel.
• Insurance: Procure travel medical coverage for the period of your trip.
- Sort Out Funding
Expectations of students or scholars participating in the Erasmus program should take account the fact that there are Erasmus grants which help in coping with the expenses, it is wise to create an economical plan including on expenses for rent, food, transport and other activities such as for recreation, services, or entertainment.
Steps:
• Submit an application for the Erasmus grant under the auspices of your host university.
• Sweep through the list of scholarships in case there are other alternatives.
• See through to create a financial budget.
- Master the Language
Even if your courses are in English, masters employ language quite frequently in their everyday lives so it is always advisable to know the language of the country you depart to for maximising your experience.
Strategies:
• Try mobile applications such as Babbel or Duolingo for starters.
• Look out for language modules at your home or host university.
• Engage in conversations with native speakers or fellow students.
- Grasp The Academic System
Enormous differences exist in the style of teaching across universities and the grading methodologies. It is recommended to understand these different aspects of studying before arriving at the desired university.
Actions:
• Participate in various orientation sessions where you have the academic background explained to you.
• Establish good rapport with professors and advisors and keep communication open.
• Write everything down in a calendar or use project management apps so you don’t miss any deadlines or requirements.
- Be Ready for Different Cultures
Getting used to new culture take time so do not rush through it and do not be too harsh on yourself if you feel a little weird at the beginning just get used to the differences.
Tips:
• Always be curious and willing to try new things and experiences.
• Make friends with other Erasmus students who are in the same boat.
- Create a Support Network
Having mentors and a group of friends makes a huge difference. Put yourself out there, and do not be afraid to ask for assistance.
Steps:
• Search for entertainment events and student associations to participate in.
• Engage in athletics and/or other activities to socialize.
• Make efforts to stay in touch with your relatives and friends back home.
• Learn from the hindrances and treat them as catastrophes.
- Set Goals for Yourself for the Time You are Not in Your Country
Ask yourself what do you want to do while you are on the exchange program. Does not matter whether it is academic related or something personal (enjoyment) it is good to have your target.
Examples:
• Learning the Language.
• Getting in touch with people from different countries and making friends.
• Trying out new and different food from the culture.
- Make Sure You are Organized
Making sure you do your follow ups on deadlines to complete tasks, documents that are to be submitted and other roles that you are given will ease your experience.
Recommendations:
• Take advantage of the use of a diary or calendar to stay focused on goals.
• Creating folders (secret, digital) to keep essential documents safe.
• Have a peek at your strategy and modify it before the plans’ deadline.
Conclusion
Put in the effort and adopt the right perspective towards life, and you can reap the benefits while partaking in an Erasmus exchange program.
Digi Assignment helps in this most rewarding experience of your life.
