What is Erasmus?
The Erasmus Programme is a European Union funded programme which encourages students in higher education to spend part of their studies in another European country. Students have the opportunity to undertake a study placement at a partner University, and on some courses, the opportunity to undertake a work placement or a British Council Assistantship in another European Country.
Why should I participate?
‘I am a citizen of the world’ – Desiderius Erasmus
Studying overseas can be a life changing experience. Immersing yourself in another culture will help your learn more about yourself and help you develop your personal skills, as well as help you develop and deepen your understanding of the academic subject which you are studying.
Below are just some of the benefits to be gained from participating in the Erasmus programme:
- Stand out in the job market
- Return more motivated, independent and confident
- Acquire new or improved language skills
- Learn a range of life-skills not taught in the lecture theatre
- Gain new perspectives on an academic subject
- Gain an international network of friends
- It counts towards your degree – it is not a gap year
- It is a fun and challenging experience
Read other students accounts of their time studying overseas in Flying Solo (PDF: 205MB), a magazine written by students from the School of Modern Languages at Newcastle University.