What happens in January? The second wave of Erasmus Plus departures, of course! The middle of the academic year is approaching, welcoming new students discovering the joys of mobility. Mobi Trainee provides you with the ultimate tips for post-Erasmus Plus departures.
Erasmus Plus Departures in the Second Semester: Landing Smoothly
First of all, you need to be patient and gentle with yourself. One crucial thing upon arrival is to take the time needed to acclimate to the host country. For example, think of a long trip to an unfamiliar city with a group of friends. You spent time and energy organizing a trip that suits you best. Excitement builds as the trip is the main topic of conversation. Finally, the departure day arrives, and once there, you realize the excitement is absent. Erasmus Plus is similar. The reason? When the brain wanders in fantasy, there is a risk of a gap between idealization and reality. Our tips:
- Arriving on Erasmus Plus can be disorienting. It is a new environment. Don’t force enthusiasm. Embrace the emotions.
- Keep a written journal where you can record your thoughts. This allows you to put them on paper and measure your progress months later.
- Talk about it with others, especially with those who have experienced Erasmus Plus before.
Read: Erasmus Plus and Culture Shock
Joining a Community While Abroad
For those whose mobility coincides with mid-year, there might be a slight gap. Often, Erasmus Plus departures in the second semester coincide with encountering already formed student groups from the October intake. This is an excellent reason to embrace Erasmus Plus ideals, namely: community! How to do it?
- First, you can get closer to the ESN association (Erasmus Student Network). They organize weekly meetings, outings, cultural visits, and… many parties! Volunteers are familiar with mid-year Erasmus Plus arrivals and can guide you.
- Engage with the local life in your neighborhood or university. There are many ways to integrate into your Erasmus Plus experience as a local rather than an expat. Follow the guide!
Learn more: Useful Erasmus Plus Links
Reminder: The Erasmus Plus Program in a Few Words
To participate in Erasmus Plus and have the opportunity to go abroad, you need to think about the project you want to set up (exchange project with a university, study internship, associative project, and volunteering), plan in advance, and then collect an application form.
The European university network is very structured, and in each higher education institution, you will find a dedicated Erasmus Plus mobility service with significant secretarial and local support.
Your application will be reviewed, and you will receive a response in the weeks following the submission. Processing times may vary from one university to another, so it is essential to anticipate your Erasmus Plus request.
Are you about to depart for your Erasmus Plus? Share your experiences on our social networks, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
