Outgoing Erasmus Students: Preparing for Year Abroad - Testimonials from Returned Students
Students who spent the 2008/2009 academic year at a partner institution under the ERASMUS programme were asked by the International Education Office in July 2009 to complete a questionnaire relating to various aspects of the ERASMUS experience. The replies received provided useful information on practical and academic matters and will supplement the resources available to the International Education Office for future students participating in the programme.
Without exception, students agreed that the ERASMUS year was a highly positive experience and a large number of students rated it as “the best year” of their lives! The questionnaires drew attention to the various challenges associated with adapting to a new country, culture and system of education, but the consensus was that any difficulties initially encountered were ultimately positive in terms of self-development and maturity.
The academic experience of the students surveyed reveals that, apart from the obvious linguistic value to the student of studying at a European partner institution, much benefit is derived from the intellectual experience of operating in a different academic environment; a new sense of perspective is offered which can only enhance the student's overall education.
A cross-section of the replies received from last year's students is attached herewith.
Further information on the ERASMUS programme is available at the following web sites:
Higher Education Authority: http://www.hea.ie/
European Commission http://europa.eu.int/pol/educ/index_en.htm
What the Students Said 2007-2008
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