What is the Real Impact of the Erasmus Programme on Students?
The Erasmus Programme has been enriching the lives of students around the world since its inception in 1987, when the European Union initiated it to enable students to study, train, teach and volunteer abroad. Over the years, the programme has become an unparalleled model of international student exchange.
It has grown to become a global phenomenon, having empowered students to gain valuable exposure, experience and life skills unparalleled by any other exchange programme. As such, it comes as no surprise why the Erasmus Programme has an enduring history of success. But, what is the real impact of the Erasmus programme on students?
Personal Growth
One of the most immediate impacts of the Erasmus Programme on students is the personal growth it enables them to experience. Because it requires students to immerse themselves in different cultures and lifestyles, it gives them the opportunity to explore their interests, curiosities and skills, and to push their boundaries. The exposure to a variety of people, cultures and lifestyles aids in their personal and emotional growth, leading to a more developed sense of self and enhanced self-confidence.
In addition, the Erasmus Programme also encourages students to be open-minded and to become more aware of diverse perspectives – an invaluable life skill. Navigating different cultures, languages and customs allows students to gain an appreciation of differences, rather than fear them. Therefore, an Erasmus experience can be an exceptional and unique way of promoting their personal and emotional growth.
Academic Benefits
Another key impact of the Erasmus Programme is its significant academic benefits. Erasmus enables students to establish connections with new cultures, and to gain international academic experience. Because the programme is free of tuition fees and grants, it makes studying abroad more accessible for those who could not normally afford it.
Moreover, there is the added benefit of the international recognition the programme provides for qualifications and the advantageous edge it gives Erasmus students on the job market. As the opportunities in the job market become more and more competitive, the international experience Erasmus offers can be a great way of boosting a student’s CV. Furthermore, Erasmus can even lead to higher-level qualifications and specialist skills.
Business and Language Opportunities
The Erasmus Programme also offers abundant business and language opportunities. This is because, as well as the culture immersion, it also offers students the chance to learn new languages and business acumen. Often, a student will have the opportunity to take part in a project or internship that requires the use of foreign languages, which helps to build confidence in their language skills. It also introduces them to the world of enterprise, which can make a decisive influence on their future career.
Not only does such practical learning give students the confirmation that their academic knowledge is being put to use, but it also helps them to develop interpersonal, problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills that are necessary for any job position.
Networking Opportunities
In addition to the aforementioned benefits, the Erasmus Programme also provides students with ample networking opportunities. It connects students from all countries and gives them a platform to build strong relationships with their peers. Not only does this provide students with more knowledge and confidence when talking about different subjects, but it also helps them to develop meaningful contacts for the future.
Moreover, many of the universities where Erasmus students study can provide additional opportunities to network with professionals in their chosen industry. Attending events such as conferences, seminars, and lectures is an invaluable way of adding to their professional networks and creating lifelong entrepreneurial relationships.
As evidenced by the many personal growth, academic, business, language, and networking opportunities that the Erasmus Programme provides, it is clear that it has a positive and lasting impact on students. By learning new skills and exploring different cultures, the programme helps to develop individuals’ confidence, knowledge, and self-esteem. In addition, the programme also enables students to gain international recognition for their qualifications, access higher-level qualifications, and make invaluable professional contacts for their future. Erasmus is thus an irreplaceable programme for students worldwide and should be strongly considered by all.
