ERASMUS+ PROGRAMME FOR OUTGOING STUDENTS 2018/2019 INDEX INDEX

Transcription

1 ERASMUS+ PROGRAMME 2010/2011 academic INFORMATION year GUIDE FOR OUTGOING STUDENTS 2018/2019 INDEX INDEX International Office, University College Cork March 2018

2 CONTENTS Page 1. ABOUT THIS GUIDE NOTE ON THE ERASMUS+ PROGRAMME INTERNATIONAL OFFICE PLACEMENT PROCESS ERASMUS PARTNER UNIVERSITIES INFORMATION GUIDES ON UCC S PARTNER UNIVERSITIES HOW TO APPLY UCC INTERNATIONAL OFFICE REQUIREMENTS OF THE ERASMUS YEAR ABROAD ACADEMIC MATTERS... 5 A. MODULE CHOICES/ECTS... 5 B. LEARNING AGREEMENT... 6 C. LANGUAGE COURSES EXAMINATIONS AT HOST UNIVERSITY ERASMUS ONLINE LINGUISTIC SUPPORT FINANCIAL MATTERS... 8 A. FEES... 8 B. ERASMUS GRANT... 9 C. LOCAL AUTHORITY GRANTS... 9 D. COST OF LIVING YEAR ABROAD ACCOMMODATION INSURANCE A. EUROPEAN HEALTH INSURANCE CARD B. TRAVEL INSURANCE ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CARD (ISIC) BANKING MAKING TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS ARRIVAL AT YOUR DESTINATION SETTLING IN BEING ABROAD PERSONAL SAFETY COMMUNICATION CODE OF CONDUCT ERASMUS PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION USEFUL GUIDELINES FORMS TO BE COMPLETED/RETURNED TO UCC... 23

3 28. MAKING THE MOST OF THE YEAR ABROAD: YOUR FUTURE CAREER ERASMUS STUDENT CHARTER CHECKLIST FINAL MESSAGE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL OFFICE APPENDIX A. UCC ERASMUS DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATORS B. UCC CONTACT DETAILS C. UCC EMERGENCY CONTACT DETAILS... 32

4 1. ABOUT THIS GUIDE This guide is intended to help UCC students who are due to undertake an Erasmus academic placement in a European partner university prepare for their semester/year abroad. It provides general information and practical advice regarding the Erasmus exchange programme. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information provided in this guide is comprehensive and accurate. If you find any incorrect or out-of-date information, or you come across additional information which would be useful to future students, please inform the International Office. The International Office is happy to try to answer any non-academic questions you might have about your forthcoming exchange. (For academic questions, we suggest that you speak to your Departmental Erasmus Coordinator) 2. NOTE ON THE ERASMUS+ PROGRAMME General UCC is an active participant in the ERASMUS+ programme, an EU programme which facilitates student exchange with partner institutions across the EU and in the Associated Countries. The programme allows students registered at UCC to spend a semester or year abroad at one of UCC s partner institution and to obtain full academic credit for so doing. Academic programmes at UCC which provide for a compulsory period abroad are as follows: BA Criminology International BA Digital Humanities International BA Drama and Theatre Studies International BA Economics International BA English International BA Film and Screen Media International BA (Geography - Archaeology) International BA International BA Music International BA World Languages BCL Law and French / Law International BComm International English/French/German/Italian/Spanish//Irish 1

5 In a number of other degree programmes, such as BMus, BSc etc., special provision may be made for students to avail of a semester abroad at a European university. Under the ERASMUS+ programme, UCC has partner institutions in virtually all countries of the EU. During the 2018/2098 academic year, over 300 UCC students will study at institutions in France, Germany, Italy and Spain (the key partner countries ) but also in lesser subscribed destinations such as Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, The Netherlands, Norway and Portugal. In all cases students are officially registered at the host institution and take courses on the same basis as domestic students in that country, along with other Erasmus students from all over Europe. Benefits of ERASMUS+ The academic, cultural, social and personal benefits of participating in the ERASMUS+ programme are enormous. Feedback from returned students shows that the intellectual challenge of studying in a European environment is exceptionally rewarding and that language skills improve dramatically. A highly valued aspect of the experience is the European cultural awareness which it provides. For many UCC students, it will be their first time to operate successfully in an international learning situation and this along with the practical demands of living away from home is immeasurably beneficial in terms of personal development and maturity. The career benefits of having studied abroad have been well documented. Recent studies prove that employers are likely to be particularly impressed by graduates who have shown that they possess the curiosity, strength of character and adaptability to obtain at least part of their education at a foreign university. Young people with a knowledge of another culture and language are in great demand in the workplace of the 21 st century. Therefore, the ERASMUS experience may be seen as giving a competitive advantage in the workplace to graduates who have been fortunate enough to avail of the programme. Many students preparing to participate in the Erasmus programme voice concerns about the financial aspects of the Erasmus experience. Whilst students are not charged for tuition at the host institution, they will need to budget for flights, food, accommodation and other general expenses. The Erasmus grant is intended as a contribution to the overall cost of the year abroad, to cover the cost of living differential associated with living abroad. The Erasmus grant will be from between per month. Students thinking of participating in the Erasmus programme should weigh up the cost factor against the inestimable value of living and studying in a European university in terms of their personal and academic development. 2

6 3. INTERNATIONAL OFFICE The International Office in UCC assists students in preparing for the year abroad. The International Office will confirm your nomination with the host university and they in turn will all the relevant information to you. If your chosen University does not contact you and you do not receive any information about how to apply to them, then you should come to see us at the International Office. We have application forms for some of our partner institutions or we can contact the host university for you. Some of our partner institutions can be a little slow in providing forms, information, and subsequently there are destinations about which we have very little information. For such places, it is nearly always a good idea to contact them yourselves; a personal approach will often yield greater results. Students should contact Clare Murphy ERASMUS Coordinator, International Office, Tel: (021) ; Fax: (021) claremurphy@ucc.ie Web: 4. PLACEMENT PROCESS All students will meet with their Departmental Coordinator (see appendix) at the end of Teaching Period 1 of their second year to obtain details of partner universities of the department. Students will then be asked to choose a host university in order of preference. In most cases students will be given one of their top four choices. Departmental Coordinators will forward the final list of placements to the International Office in February/March. The International Office will then contact you by to inform you of the next steps. 5. ERASMUS PARTNER UNIVERSITIES Full details of UCC s partner institutions in the EU may be found at: Please click on the relevant university for further information regarding their application procedures, semester dates, accommodation etc. 3

7 6. INFORMATION GUIDES ON UCC S PARTNER UNIVERSITIES The International Office has compiled Information Guides on some of UCC's partner universities. These guides are based on information provided by students who have participated in the Erasmus programme. We are in the process of compiling guides on our other partners and hope to have these online shortly. Please click on the link below to download the guides: 7. HOW TO APPLY UCC International Office Students are required to complete an online application form for the International Office. A link to the online application will be ed to students when the placements have been confirmed by the academic coordinator. NB: You will be required to provide your bank account details when completing the online application form. Please ensure that you submit correct bank account details as any error will cause a delay in payment of the grant. Once your application has been received and processed your nomination will be sent to the relevant host university. The host university will advise you of their application procedures (you will be required to complete separate application forms for your host university). 8. REQUIREMENTS OF THE ERASMUS YEAR ABROAD The main requirements of the Erasmus year abroad are as follows: Student may only study at a European destination Period abroad is part of the student s studies at UCC (i.e. will receive academic credit) Student completes the relevant academic requirements set by the sending academic department(s)/school(s) Minimum duration is three months and maximum duration is one academic year Student completes the required/agreed period abroad at host university Payment(s) of the grant may be withheld where required documents are not returned to UCC by the stated deadlines 4

8 Examination Results/Appeal travelling Students are advised not to travel until end-of-year examination results are known. Students, who travel abroad before repeat results are known, should be aware that they will be required to return to UCC should they fail. Students who decide to appeal their results are also advised not to travel before the result of their appeal is known. Again, students who travel to their host destination before appeal results are known will be required to return to UCC should their appeal be denied. No exceptions are made. Please note that there is a time limit for travelling. Students are not advised to arrive at their host university more than two weeks late. Termination of year abroad Students who wish to withdraw from the Erasmus+ programme are advised to contact UCC before making a decision. Students should be aware that there are a number of consequences to withdrawing (depending on the time of withdrawal): The year abroad is compulsory for many degree programmes. Therefore, student would be required to withdraw from the relevant degree programme. Any student who withdraws during the academic year will be required to reimburse the Erasmus grant to UCC. Fee implications for following year of studies. 9. ACADEMIC MATTERS a. Module Choices/ECTS The European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) is a grading system used by most European universities in an effort to standardise recognition of academic achievements between European institutions. ECTS credits are a value allocated to course units to describe the student workload required to complete them. They reflect the quantity of work that each course requires in relation to the total quantity of work required to complete a full year of academic study at the home institution; that is lectures, practical work, seminars, private study (both in the library and at home). Your period of study at the host university will be fully recognised by UCC as part of your study for your degree programme. A typical annual UCC course load is 60 ECTS credits so you should plan to obtain around 30 ECTS credits per semester whilst away. 5

9 You need to be very clear about what is going to be required of you while you are at your host university, in terms of choice of courses, attendance requirements, submission of written or practical work, projects and passing of exams. You will have to bear in mind that methods of teaching, learning and examining may differ in a number of ways at the host university from those you are familiar with. Your UCC academic coordinator should be in a position to advise you on all of issues above. You must take courses in your degree subjects while abroad, as agreed between you and your UCC departmental coordinator(s). You should consult with your departmental coordinator (s) before departure to establish the agreed workload. Please keep in close contact with your departmental coordinator (s) regarding your courses when you are abroad. If you encounter any problems, it is important that you contact UCC immediately. b. Learning Agreement The learning agreement is an important document. It is the contract of study agreed between the student, the UCC academic coordinator and the host university. The learning agreement outlines the modules that the student intends to study at the host university, along with the ECTS credit weighting of each module. The European Commission requires that each student is in possession of a complete learning agreement prior to departure. Before Departure Agree on suitable courses for study at your host institution in liaison with your UCC academic coordinator (course information should be available from all partner institutions well in advance). On your Learning Agreement (before section), fill in your personal details and information relevant to your study period. List the details of all agreed courses on page two. The learning agreement needs to be signed by you and your academic coordinator and then sent to your host institution to be signed. Before submitting this form to your host information, ensure you have a copy of it. Please also ask for the form to be returned to you as soon as possible. When the signed learning agreement is returned to you please submit a copy to the International Office (UCC) 6

10 During Study Period Abroad When you arrive at your host university, you may need to make changes to your choices and hence to the Learning Agreement. Should this be the case, please liaise closely with the academic coordinators both at your host university and with UCC to ensure your choices meet your UCC course requirements. Please complete the During section of the learning agreement. The learning agreement will need to be signed by you and the coordinator at your host university. The signed learning agreement must then be returned to the International Office at UCC. The International Office will arrange for your learning agreement to be signed by your academic coordinator and then be returned to you for your records. The learning agreement is available online at (under academic requirements) c. Language Courses Many host universities offer language courses to Erasmus students. These courses may take place before the start of the semester or during the semester. If the host university offers a language course, it is advisable to take this. There may be a fee for some of these courses. 10. EXAMINATIONS AT HOST UNIVERSITY Examination results from your year abroad should be submitted to the International Office as soon as they are available. Students studying in Germany should ensure that they collect their scheine at the end of semester 1 and 2. Students studying in Italy should ensure that they collect their results at the end of the academic year. Any student who is taking a language course in a university language centre must collect the results and return them to the International Office. Some institutions forward transcripts to UCC, others do not. Please ensure that you are clear about the procedure at your host institution before you return to Ireland. It is the responsibility of the student to prove that they have successfully achieved the required number of credits at their host institution. 7

11 11. ERASMUS ONLINE LINGUISTIC SUPPORT The Online Linguistic Support (OLS) has been designed to assist students in improving their knowledge of the language in which they will study so that they can make the most out of their Erasmus period abroad. The OLS is currently available in the following languages: Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, French, German, Greek, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish and Swedish. Students will be required to complete the OLS language assessment before the study period abroad. It will help you to determine your proficiency in the relevant language. The results of the assessment carried out will not impact on students acceptance at the host university. Based on their assessment results, students may be granted access to an online language course before and during their stay abroad, in order to improve their language competences. Access to the course includes tutoring, forums, tips from former Erasmus+ participants, and more. Upon return, students will be required to take the final assessment which will allow you to measure the progress you made during your study period abroad. Language licenses are expected to be available in May. The International Office will contact all students at that time with all the relevant information. 12. FINANCIAL MATTERS a. Fees All students are required to register at UCC and pay the registration fee. You will also be required to register with your host university but please note that you will not be expected to pay any registration fees. 8

12 b. Erasmus Grant Students participating in the ERASMUS+ programme are entitled to receive the Erasmus grant (provided that period abroad is recognised by UCC). The Erasmus grant is intended as a contribution to the overall cost of the year abroad, to cover the cost of living differential associated with living abroad. Erasmus Grant for the current academic year 2017/2018 is as follows: Amounts are per month Confirmation of the Grant Amounts for the 2018/2019 academic year is expected to be available in June. Austria: 270 Lithuania: 220 Belgium: 220 Malta: 220 Czech Republic: 220 Netherlands: 220 Denmark: 270 Norway: 270 Finland: 270 Poland: 220 France: 270 Portugal: 220 Germany: 220 Slovakia: 220 Greece: 220 Spain: 220 Iceland: 220 Sweden: 270 Italy: 270 UK: 270 Students are required to provide their bank account details when completing UCC s online application form. The Erasmus grant will be paid over three instalments. Students will receive the first payment in September/October (when online registration has been completed), the second payment in February/March (when relevant forms have been returned to UCC) and the final instalment at the end of the study period. c. Local Authority Grants If you are entitled to a local authority grant, this entitlement continues for the period of your stay abroad. Your local authority should be informed of your year abroad. The International Office will provide a supporting letter. Students are requested to contact the Fees Office (North Wing, Main Quadrangle) to complete the necessary forms in order to receive their local authority grant whilst abroad. 9

13 d. Cost of Living Year Abroad Living abroad as an exchange student does not come free, and the costs vary from country to country, and according to the period of time you spend abroad. While you are not charged for tuition at the host university, you will need to budget for flights, accommodation, food and other general expenses. Some countries are more expensive than others, as are some cities, and the extra expenditure involved will also depend on whether you are currently living at home. If you are, you will find that accommodation will become a major cost. However, if you are already paying rent in Cork, you will probably find that accommodation costs are cheaper abroad than they are in Ireland. In some countries you may be entitled to some financial assistance towards the cost of your rent. For example, in France you may be able to get a substantial rent rebate of approximately 50% and maybe more. Your host university will have details on the procedure for applying for this. The average cost of living in most countries of the EU is fairly standard. In many European countries student restaurants are subsidised and provide good meals at excellent value. Shopping at food markets is good value and helps you practise the language. Your Student Discount Card (ISIC card) may entitle you to discounts in shops. Calculate how much money you will need and plan for higher costs at the beginning. You will probably be required to pay a month s deposit for your accommodation as well as a month s rent in advance. Extra money is also likely to be needed for a travel pass, for other deposits, student discount cards, etc. You may need to purchase extra household items if those supplied are insufficient. Please see table (next page) outlining estimated cost of living in the relevant countries. 10

14 The figures hereunder are a guideline only to the cost of living in the relevant country. These figures are based on the experiences of previous students who have studied abroad. Figures are based per month Accommodation Electricity Phone Bills Food Transport Austria 260 (Private) 315 (University) Included in rent Belgium 220 (University) Included in rent Czech Republic 250 (Private) 145 (University) Included in rent Denmark Finland France Germany Greece DKK2,500-4,000 (Private) Included in rent (Private) Included in rent 650 (Private) (Private Paris) 265 (University) (Private) 230 (University) Included in rent (Private) DKK DKK 1,500-2, DKK Textbooks & Stationery DKK Student Life (Social functions, sport, etc.) DKK 1, Total (per month) 680 / / 510 DKK5600/ DKK / / / /

15 Accommodation Italy Malta Netherlands Norway Portugal 450 (Private) 250 (University) 500 (Private) 425 (Private) 420 (University) 415 (University) 450 (Private) 230 (University) Scotland/ UK 400 (Private) 450 (University) Slovakia (Private) (University) Spain 330 (Private) 275 (University) Sweden SEK SEK4800 (Private) Electricity Phone Bills Food Transport Included in rent Included in rent Included in rent Included in rent 60 Included in rent Included in rent 30 Included in rent SEK SEK SEK550 Textbooks & Stationery Student Life (Social functions, sport, etc.) SEK400- SEK SEK1000 Total (per month) 560/ / / / / / 670 SEK7750/ SEK

16 13. ACCOMMODATION It is the responsibility of the student to organise accommodation, in consultation with the accommodation services at the host university. Students should be aware that partner universities cannot guarantee accommodation to all Erasmus students. If you wish to apply for university accommodation (if offered) then you will be required to complete an accommodation application form in advance. In a lot of cases, student accommodation is allocated on a first come, first served basis. It is imperative that you return the completed application form as quickly as possible. Please note that it is common practice for university residences to request a deposit in advance. Many student residences are quite basic and may consist of bathroom and cooking facilities that may be common not only to one apartment, but to one floor. If you have any special requests concerning accommodation, you should communicate these to the host university. For example, you should specify if you wish to be located close to a friend or if you wish to be placed in a single room. Students should also inform the university of any medical conditions, allergies etc. If you wish to rent accommodation on the private market, you should only do so after having viewed the premises in person: never pre-book over the internet, especially where a deposit is requested, unless you know that the person with whom you are dealing is bona fide. Research your options thoroughly and speak to returned Erasmus students before you make a final decision. Where student accommodation is either not available or not your preferred option, it is strongly advised that you make appropriate arrangements in advance. This may mean booking into a hotel or hostel and arriving a week or two before the teaching terms starts in order to give yourself time to search for private accommodation. Most universities have an Accommodation Office or an International Office that will be able to assist you and give you advice. Try to find out about different neighbourhoods in terms of their safety and their proximity to the university, and get an idea of the going rates for monthly rent. You are advised to be careful signing contracts read the small print. While it may seem convenient and comforting to share accommodation with other English-speaking students, former Erasmus students have often commented that this was not always advantageous from the points of view of language learning and integration into the new environment, and you should consider all of this when you are looking for somewhere to stay. 13

17 Students who live at home in Cork may find the search for accommodation very daunting. However, with careful and early planning most students don t have any major problems. Consider carefully the following points: What types of accommodation options are available? The cost of each option? What forms are needed to book accommodation? What is the deadline for the return of all necessary forms? Remember, accommodation is usually reserved on a first come first served basis so don t delay returning the required forms. What deposit, if any, is required in advance? What facilities (toilet, shower, cooking etc) are available? Are they shared? Is bed linen etc supplied or will you need to bring your own? From what date will accommodation be available? Will you be bound by a contract, and for how long? What are the opening hours of reception in student residences? (If you are arriving late in the evening or at a weekend, you may need to make special arrangements to gain access to your room.) It is the student s responsibility to maintain contact with the host university during the summer months. It is also the student s responsibility to secure confirmation of accommodation from the host university. 14. INSURANCE All students going abroad are advised to have comprehensive health and travel insurance policy. a. European Health Insurance Card Students will need the European Health Insurance Card which is obtainable from the relevant local health board. This card may entitle the holder to free accident and emergency treatment in EU countries. The card does NOT cover all medical expenses and is not a substitute for travel insurance. You will be required to provide your PPS number. Full information on the EHIC is available on the European Health Insurance Card website: 14

18 b. Travel Insurance Students are required to take out travel insurance. The EHIC does not cover the cost of repatriation (that s the cost of bringing a person home in the event of illness or death). In addition, illness or an accident abroad may mean extra travel and accommodation costs. There are special health/travel insurance packages available for students studying abroad. It is very important that you are covered for emergency medical treatment and repatriation, and it is also advisable to insure your belongings against theft. A good policy will offer a range of benefits and will give you peace of mind. Make sure you keep a record of any emergency numbers that the insurance company give you, in case you have to make a claim. 15. ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS In most cases you will need the following items for registration purposes in the host university. Take plenty of copies as you will probably have to present them on various different occasions: Copies of your birth certificate A supply of passport photographs Your passport and plenty of copies A letter from the International Office stating that you will be studying abroad under the ERASMUS+ programme (this will be posted to you) A confirmation of your acceptance at the university, if applicable. Your European Health Insurance Card 16. INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CARD (ISIC) The ISIC is internationally accepted as proof of your student status. Although you are not required to carry an ISIC card, some of the benefits of ISIC are: Access to special student air fares Student prices on coach, rail and ferry travel aboard Access to the world-wide student travel office network Savings on accommodation, sightseeing and entertainment Access to the ISIC 24-hour free helpline - this can help with health, legal and general emergencies Students can apply for the International Student Card (ISIC) from any USIT office. 15

19 17. BANKING In general, it is important to bring sufficient funds, in readily usable form, to tide you over for the early part of your stay abroad. It is advisable to open a local bank account when you get there. The use of internet banking is also a convenient way for you to access your Irish bank account details while abroad. You should speak to your local branch about this. 18. MAKING TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS Consider all travel options and shop around for the best fares. Check with USIT, local travel agents and airlines/ferry services for the best deals. Booking in advance sometimes gives financial advantage. You will need a valid passport for all destinations except the UK. Make sure that your International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is valid for the duration of your stay as it can enable you to gain significant discounts on both travel and leisure activities as well as on shopping. 19. ARRIVAL AT YOUR DESTINATION Get your dates right! Do not arrive on public/bank holidays or during the weekend unless you have made arrangements with your host university in advance; otherwise there may not be anybody to greet you or show you to your accommodation. It is generally best to arrive a few days before beginning of term and during office hours on a weekday. Students should arrive in time for orientation/language courses if these are offered; it is highly recommended to attend these in order to understand the host institution s system; otherwise arrive in time for first day of term. Notify the International Office of the university in advance of your arrival date, place and time of arrival and notify your contact person if any changes occur. Occasionally a university representative will meet students upon arrival. It is more likely, however, that you will be finding your own way. 16

20 Find out in advance where you should go first, i.e. to the Accommodation Office / International Office / Coordinator s Office or directly to your accommodation base. Seek directions from your host university in advance, so that you will have at your disposal the best advice on travelling from the airport or ferry terminal. A map is always useful. Most airports and train stations have an information desk, where you will find somebody to advise you. Take note that on the continent it is often necessary to validate your travel ticket by punching it in a machine, e.g. before you board a train or on a bus. Failure to do so can result in heavy fines. If things do not go according to plan and you cannot reach your accommodation by the required time, book into a hostel overnight. Rates are usually very reasonable. Tell your family that you have arrived! They could be worrying about you while you are enjoying yourself! 20. SETTLING IN Don t judge your destination until you ve settled in properly and this will probably take a few weeks. It will take a while to adapt to a new university system, the language, new culture and customs and to make new friends, so you may experience some homesickness at first. Be open-minded about people and new experiences. Don t judge everything in terms of the manner in which it compares with Ireland. You will experience some advantages and some disadvantages. You will gradually adapt to new ways and what seems strange at first will soon become quite familiar so much so that when you return home you will miss aspects of being abroad. If you persist to have personal problems, you should in the first instance go to the Counselling Office at your host university. However, if your circumstances are extreme you should still feel free to contact the Counselling and Development Office at UCC (see page 28 for contact details). 21. BEING ABROAD It is important to keep in touch with your Academic Department(s) and the International Office while abroad. Students are also asked to leave an address that they check regularly with the International Office and with academic coordinators and this will be used to provide you with important information about grants, important documentation etc. Prior to departure the International Office will provide all students with a Contact Details Form. 17

21 You should establish who your point of contact is at the host institution as soon as you arrive. In many cases this will be an office similar to the International Office at UCC; it can however be the academic adviser in your department. Registering at every university differs and you will need to establish how this is done as soon as you can after arrival and be prepared for differences in practice to UCC. You may be pleasantly surprised or incredibly frustrated but in the majority of cases it will soon sort itself out and you can settle down to your studies. If you experience any significant problems at your host university with registering and choosing modules you must contact your academic coordinator who should be able to help, for example if you still can't register after week two. If you don t have a clear idea of how many credits/ courses you should take, refer back to your Learning Agreement or information provided by your department before you left Cork. You should keep a record of all academic records whilst you are abroad and submit them to the International Office on your return to Cork. Culture Shock Culture shock is to be expected! Don t worry if it happens to you. Many students are surprised by how homesick they feel in their first few weeks overseas. It can be quite stressful getting used to interacting in a new language, not being able to go home for the weekend and getting used to the often less personal academic environment of the bigger European universities. In most cases getting over it is simply a matter of time and nothing to worry about. It is recommended that you get involved in activities planned for Erasmus students at your university and also join clubs and societies. These are the best ways to meet other people in a similar situation and to immerse yourself in the environment of the host country. You will cope well with culture shock if you: Have prepared well for your journey Know how to sort out various practical problems on your arrival and who can help you Make yourself aware of any obvious culture differences Make use of your host university s support system; e.g. International Office, Counselling Service (if available) 18

22 22. PERSONAL SAFETY Students are advised to consider carefully their own personal safety. Follow the same precautions as you would at home. Hold on tightly to your bags, especially in a crowd, and keep your wallet close to your body so that it cannot be taken without you noticing. Watch out for pick-pockets, especially in large crowds and at train and bus stations. Do not try and retaliate should someone try to mug you; your personal safety is more important than any amount of money you may have on you. If you are robbed, you should report it to the police immediately. If you lose your credit cards or bank cards then get in touch with your bank as soon as you can to have them cancelled; banks at home and abroad provide emergency numbers for use in the event of loss or theft, so be sure to make a note of the numbers and keep it separate from the cards themselves. Remember that the less conspicuous you look; the less interest you will attract. If, for example, you have to consult a map, it is better to do it in a café than to advertise that you are unsure of your surroundings. If you lose any personal belongings or documents go directly to the police and report it. If you are finding your own accommodation, talk to other students in the same areas that you are looking at and who have been through the same process. Speak to a local or the host accommodation office about where the dangerous places are in the area. For safety, take someone with you when you go flat hunting. Also have an idea what the going rate is in the area to avoid being overcharged. Watch out for the cultural differences in relation to socialising at night in your host country. Young people in Europe do not in general drink to get drunk so ensure that you check the behaviour of your peer group in bars, cafés and discos. If you find yourself without any access to cash, without your passport, or in any other serious kind of trouble, the Irish Embassy/Consulate in your host country will try to help. In the unlikely event of you being arrested for a serious offence, insist on the Consulate being informed: you will be contacted as soon as possible by a consular officer who can advise on local procedures, etc. 23. COMMUNICATION To telephone Ireland while abroad, dial the international access code of the host country the area code (less the 0 ) + local number. A guide to emergency services and international telephone codes: 19

23 COUNTRY INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY POLICE AMBULANCE ACCESS CODE CODE Austria /122 Belgium Czech / /112 Republic Denmark Finland France Germany Italy Netherlands Norway Portugal Spain Sweden UK is the universal emergency number for EU member states. As they are not required by law to use this number exclusively most states continue to use their existing emergency numbers as well as CODE OF CONDUCT Remember that, while you are away, you are ambassadors for your country and for UCC. As a registered student of UCC while abroad, you will be subject to the regulations of both UCC and of your host university. You are expected to observe the regulations and the code of conduct of the university in which you are staying. 25. ERASMUS PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION Each year the International Office organizes a Photographic Competition for UCC students studying abroad as part of their degree programme. Theme Photographs should relate to the experience of studying abroad. There are a number of different categories: Fieldtrips, holidays, landscapes of your host country Everyday life on campus Life in your host city/town Every picture tells a story! 20

24 All entries are welcome. The photographs will be widely circulated so please be selective in relation to what images you submit! Rules and Regulations Photographs should be submitted in high resolution jpeg format. The size of each photograph entered must be at least 600kb. Photographs in landscape format will only be considered. Please do not submit photographs in portrait format. Each entry must include the name and address of the entrant photographer, and a description of the photograph subject matter, including where and when the photograph was taken along with a caption. No limit to the number of photographs entered. By submitting an entry, you are giving the International Office, UCC the rights to use and publicize your photograph in various media. How to enter By Clare Murphy: claremurphy@ucc.ie By Post: Post a CD Rom containing photographs to: Clare Murphy, International Office, University College Cork, Roseleigh, Western Road, Cork. Prizes The prizes which will be awarded to the top three successful entrants are cash prizes, and are as follows: 1st Prize: 300 2nd Prize: 200 3rd Prize:

25 Plus, the fourteen best photographs (as decided by our panel of judges) will be included in a calendar which will be produced for Deadline All entries should be submitted by August Here are some photographs we received last year: Clara Hurley, Studied in The Netherlands Claire Joyce, Studied in France Sarah McCann, Studied in The Netherlands (2 nd Prize) 26. USEFUL GUIDELINES Book your flights well in advance to ensure the cheapest rates, and check the academic calendar of the host university to ensure that you will arrive in time for the beginning of term. If an orientation programme or language course is offered, it is recommended that you attend these, and make your travel arrangements accordingly. Most airlines have luggage weight restrictions and if you go over the limit you will end up being charged substantially for every additional kilo. Check the airlines websites for exact details of weight restrictions and charges. Find out about other students that may be going to the same destination as you. Try to travel in pairs or in a group, as this will make it cheaper for taxis and also safer in terms of luggage supervision. Be vigilant at rail and bus stations and keep a close eye on your luggage. Have a list of important telephone contact numbers and the number of your credit/bank card as well as the bank s emergency number, and keep these details about your person, in case you are unfortunate enough to lose your wallet or mobile phone. 22

26 Be aware that in many countries, local bus or tram tickets purchased from a machine must be punched to validate them if you are caught travelling without a valid ticket, you may have to pay a substantial fine. If you have pre-booked accommodation in a university residence, check its opening hours for key collection (reception might be closed in the evenings or at weekends). Make sure that when you arrive in your host country you have sufficient funds for your initial expenses. Note that, in relation to accommodation, you may have to pay a deposit plus a month s rent in advance. If, at the time of moving into your accommodation, you notice anything broken or damaged in the room/apartment, make sure the owner or caretaker is aware of it, or you could find yourself liable for repairs when you are leaving. When opening a bank account abroad you may need to produce the following documents: a translated birth certificate, your passport, proof that you are a student, evidence of your address in the host country. Former Erasmus students have indicated that they found it very useful to have an Irish student credit card. If you keep this in credit you will not be charged for withdrawing cash at ATM machines abroad. You should also set up internet access to your Irish bank account. Most universities will have an International Office. Remember to check their office opening hours and contact details before departure. You may find that administrative procedures are excessively bureaucratic in some countries. Remember that it is the same for all other students and that you shouldn t get too bothered by it all. Stand up for yourself and don t be afraid to ask questions if you don t understand something. Try to find out as much as you can in advance about the culture and customs of the host country. 27. FORMS TO BE COMPLETED/RETURNED TO UCC Prior to Departure: Online application form (including your bank account details) Online Linguistic Assessment Grant Agreement Learning Agreement (before section) Bank account details to the Fees Office, UCC (if you are in receipt of a local authority grant) On arrival at Host University: Contact Details Form (contact details at host institution) Certificate of Arrival 23

27 Learning Agreement (during section) Before you depart Host University: Examination results/attendance forms: Some institutions forward transcripts to UCC, others do not. Please ensure that you are clear about the procedure at your host institution before you return to Ireland. It is the responsibility of the student to prove that he/she has successfully achieved the required number of credits at their host institution. Certificate of Attendance (to be completed by your host university and returned to the International Office before you leave your host university at the end of the year. Online Erasmus Final Report the link to the Erasmus final report will be ed to you at the end of your study period. Online Linguistic Second Assessment 28. MAKING THE MOST OF THE YEAR ABROAD: YOUR FUTURE CAREER A year studying abroad is a unique opportunity to improve your employment prospects as employers recognise the added value a year abroad gives to your degree. While you are abroad, there are many activities you can become involved in that will enhance your employment prospects on your return. Improve your Language Skills Arrange to commit to at least one weekly language exchange session with a native speaker (i.e. you undertake to exchange structured conversation practice with each other for an agreed time). All language departments notice boards display such ads. Take every opportunity to speak to local shopkeepers etc. See if you can volunteer to act as translators in local hotels, travel agencies etc. 24

28 Network Contacts made during the year abroad can be very helpful later on in your career. Talk to local recruitment agencies and see how vacancies are advertised. Visit the Commission of European Communities (depending on where you are) and see if you can make appointments with staff in Human Resources or in the Stagiaire Office. If you are interested in returning to the country on graduation to pursue postgraduate study or take up teaching assistantships; enquire on the ground, how best to go about this. See if you can work shadow in local commercial, industrial or financial institutions. Work Experience Use the vacations to gain some relevant work experience, either paid or unpaid, to gain some insights into future careers you may have an interest in. Returning to Cork In addition to planning your time abroad, it is also advisable to plan for when you return and what lies ahead of you on graduation. If you are returning to your final year, there are a number of early closing dates that you need to be aware of for both employment and further study. The Careers Service finds that many students on their return take some time re-adjusting back to being in UCC. They find it hard to balance their return to Cork and career planning at the same time. Erasmus students are advised to visit the Careers Service before they go abroad and have a chat with an advisor on their tentative career plans. All students on their return should have a Careers Advisor review their updated CV. Most important of all, students should check out the Careers Service website, especially the EVENTS Section to be aware of early closing dates and Recruitment Fairs. Careers Service, UCC 3/4 Brighton Villas, 25

29 University College, Western Road, Cork. Telephone: Fax: Website: Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday: pm Friday: pm Open throughout lunchtime 29. ERASMUS STUDENT CHARTER Each student is given a copy of the Erasmus Student Charter. This charter should be kept for reference and details exactly what a student can expect from the Erasmus programme, and also what is expected from each student: The status of Erasmus student applies to students who satisfy the Erasmus eligibility criteria and who have been selected by their university 1 to spend an Erasmus study period abroad at a partner university in Europe. Both universities must have an Erasmus University Charter awarded by the European Commission ( As an Erasmus student, you are entitled to expect: Your home university and your host university to sign a learning agreement with you before you leave. This agreement will set out details of your planned studies abroad, including the credits to be achieved. A transcript of records at the end of your studies abroad, signed by your host university. This will record your results with the credits and grades achieved. Full academic recognition from your home university for credits achieved during the Erasmus study period, in accordance with the learning agreement. 1 University means any type of higher education institution, according to a national legislation or practice, which offers qualifications or diplomas at that level, whatever such establishments may be called in the participating countries. 26

30 Not to have to pay fees to your host university for tuition, registration, examinations or access to laboratory and library facilities during your Erasmus studies. Your student grant or loan from your home country to be maintained while you are abroad. As an Erasmus student, you are expected to: Respect the rules and obligations of the Erasmus contract with your home university or your National Agency. Ensure that any changes to the learning agreement are agreed in writing with both the home and host university immediately they occur. Spend the full period as agreed at the host university, including examinations or other forms of assessment, and respect its rules and regulations. Write a report on your Erasmus study period abroad when you return. If you have a problem: Identify the problem clearly and check your rights and obligations Contact your departmental co-ordinator and use the formal appeals procedure of your home university If you remain dissatisfied, contact your National Agency Higher Education Authority Marine House, Brooklawn House, Shelbourne Road, Dublin 4. erasmus@hea.ie 27

31 30. CHECKLIST Complete and return all requested documents to the host university before the required date e.g. university application forms, accommodation forms and deposit if required; booking forms for special language courses or orientation programmes Complete and sign the Erasmus grant agreement sent to you by the International Office (UCC) Completed the Erasmus online language assessment Complete and return the signed Learning Agreement to the International Office (UCC) Ensure that you have registered online with UCC before you go abroad. Obtain the name, address, phone/fax numbers and of your contact persons abroad Have details of your accommodation and make sure that you will have access to it at the time of your arrival. Have a valid passport and bring it with you, together with travel tickets Bring your European Health Insurance Card and details regarding your travel insurance Have several photocopies of all your documentation. Photocopies of your Birth Certificate Bring plenty of passport photos Bring your USIT Card and your UCC ID Card Organise money matters before you go and make sure that you have sufficient funds to cover initial expenses. Leave your contact details with your family don t forget to contact your family when you arrive at your destination Please ensure that Certificate of Arrival and Certificate of Attendance are completed by your host university and returned to the International Office before you leave your host university at the end of the year. Check your UCC regularly while you are studying abroad 28

32 31. FINAL MESSAGE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL OFFICE We hope that you enjoy your exchange. Please remember that the Erasmus exchange is not just for academic purposes but is also an opportunity to experience and enjoy a new culture whilst making friends from all over Europe. Throw yourself into your new life and be willing to meet new people at any events organised for you by your Host University. You will not be the only person alone in a new country so do not be scared, just be proactive. This will make the transition period easier for you. Remember E is not only for ERASMUS but also for enjoyment, experience, exploring and education! If you are experiencing any difficulties, please contact the International Office at the details below: Clare Murphy, International Office, University College Cork. Tel: Fax: claremurphy@ucc.ie Enjoy your exchange! 29