In addition to ERASMUS, most third level institutions offer students the chance to go abroad for a semester or year to continue their studies in an international setting as an exchange student. Exchange programmes are very popular as they offer you the chance to learn about a new culture and see the world from a new perspective while studying and living in a different country. Not only will you grow in independence, make new friends and experience a different academic system you may get the chance to study subjects or modules that are not offered or available to you at your home university or college. Studying part of your degree programme at a college or university overseas will give you an international perspective on your studies and employers may view this as added value when you start applying for jobs because it shows an openness to learn, an ability to thrive in an international environment and a familiarity with different cultures and outlooks.
Exchange programmes encourage the development of many transferable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, good communication and ability to apply yourself, organise your workload and remain focused. One way of making the most of your exchange programme and immerse yourself into a new country and a new way of living is to join in with as many extra-curricular activities as possible. Join as many societies and clubs as you can and get involved in both your student and local community environments: you are pretty much guaranteed to have a great time!
Living and working in a global environment will broaden your horizons and help you grow in confidence and independence. Exchange programmes separate to ERASMUS are usually to places that are not included in the ERASMUS scheme – anywhere from USA to Australia and Asia. The choice of programmes varies widely from one college or university to the next so it is well worth your while to thoroughly research what options are available to you early on in your third level academic career. You can usually find all this information within your subject department and also at the department of international studies.
Most exchange programmes are set up as a result of agreements and affiliations between certain universities and subject departments and therefore the exchange options available to you depends largely upon where and what you are studying.
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