What is the Erasmus+ Program?

Erasmus+ stands as the premier exchange program for students in Europe. Established in 1987, it has provided students studying in the European Union exceptional opportunities to immerse themselves in academic and cultural life across 33 participating European countries. With an impressive 90% of European universities engaged in the program, Erasmus+ offers a diverse array of courses and study programs, ensuring students have access to world-class higher education and subsequent career benefits. 

Why Do Students Go On Erasmus+? 

The Erasmus+ program has become a cornerstone of international education, offering students from across the globe an incredible opportunity to study abroad. Beyond academic pursuits, participating in Erasmus+ unlocks a wealth of personal and professional benefits. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, career development, or personal growth, Erasmus+ has something to offer.

What Are the Career Benefits of Going on Erasmus+? 

According to the Erasmus+ Higher Education Impact Study from 2019, 80% of Erasmus+ alumni found employment within three months of graduation, and 72% felt that their experience abroad was instrumental in securing their first job. Additionally, nine out of ten alumni reported utilizing the skills and experiences gained abroad in their daily work. 

Since 2020, the employment rate of Erasmus+ alumni has remained consistently high, with some positive trends emerging:

  • In 10 EU Member States, the employment rate for young adults aged 20-34 with tertiary education is 90% or above, with an above-average increase observed in Southern Europe.
  • Erasmus+ students are half as likely to experience long-term unemployment compared to those who have not studied or trained abroad.
  • Five years after graduation, the unemployment rate for Erasmus+ alumni is 23% lower than for students who study in their home country.
  • Long-term employment prospects for Erasmus+ alumni remain strong. Ten years after graduation, the vast majority of Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s graduates are employed or self-employed (88% as of the 2020/21 survey).
  • Erasmus+ graduates continue to have a competitive edge in the job market, with 92% of employers valuing personality traits boosted by the program, such as tolerance, confidence, and problem-solving skills. 

Following are five reasons why going on Erasmus+ benefits students’ careers.

5 Ways Erasmus+ Can Prepare You For Your Career

1. Experience a New Culture and Gain a Global Perspective

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Erasmus+ program is the chance to immerse yourself in a new culture. Studying in a different country means experiencing its traditions, cuisine, and social norms firsthand. This cultural exchange fosters a deeper understanding of diversity, making students more globally aware and empathetic.

According to the Erasmus Impact Study (see previous link) conducted by the European Commission, over 90% of students reported that participating in Erasmus+ increased their understanding of other cultures. Moreover, the program allows you to build friendships with students from all over the world, creating lifelong memories and connections.

Key Benefits of Cultural Immersion:

  • Develop a broader worldview.
  • Learn to appreciate and navigate cultural differences.
  • Build meaningful global relationships.

2. Grow Your Language Skills

Language skills are critical in today’s interconnected world, and Erasmus+ provides a natural environment to learn or improve a foreign language. Whether you’re studying in Spain, Germany, or France, surrounding yourself with native speakers accelerates your language-learning process.

The Erasmus+ program often includes language preparation courses, making it easier for students to adapt to their new environment. Learning a new language boosts your confidence and enhances your employability in an increasingly multilingual job market.

Ways Erasmus+ Enhances Language Skills:

  • Daily interaction with native speakers.
  • Exposure to academic terminology in a different language.
  • Opportunities to learn informal and colloquial expressions

3. Boost Your Career Prospects

Employers highly value the skills developed through international programs like the Erasmus+ experience. Adaptability, problem-solving, and cultural sensitivity are just a few of the qualities that make Erasmus+ graduates stand out in the job market. Additionally, having international study experience on your resume signals to employers that you’re proactive and capable of working in diverse environments. Furthermore, many participants receive job offers from international companies or through connections they make during their Erasmus+ program.

Career Advantages of Erasmus+:

  • Build a global professional network.
  • Gain an edge in competitive industries.
  • Learn soft skills like adaptability, communication, and resilience.

4. Develop Life Skills and Independence

Living and studying in a foreign country pushes you outside of your comfort zone. From navigating a new city to adapting to a different education system, every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Subsequently, Erasmus+ students consistently report increased self-confidence and independence after their experience abroad.

According to the European Commission, over 90% of Erasmus+ students say the program helped them build a stronger sense of resilience and problem-solving skills. These attributes are invaluable, not only during your studies but throughout your life and career.

Personal Growth Highlights:

  • Learn to manage finances and daily responsibilities independently.
  • Build resilience by adapting to new situations.
  • Develop a sense of self-reliance and confidence.

5. Gain Access to a Global Network

The Erasmus+ program connects you with an international community of students, educators, and professionals. As a result, this global network can lead to lifelong friendships, mentorships, and even career opportunities. In addition, the Erasmus+ Alumni Association is a vibrant community that keeps former students engaged long after their programs have ended.

Networking is a vital aspect of career development, and Erasmus+ provides countless opportunities to meet influential people in your field. Many universities also offer Erasmus+-specific networking events and alumni meetups to help students stay connected.

Networking Benefits of Erasmus+:

  • Join a community of over 10 million alumni worldwide.
  • Participate in professional events and conferences.
  • Forge connections that can lead to internships and job opportunities.

Erasmus+: Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

Studying an Erasmus program offers life-changing experiences that extend far beyond the classroom. From cultural immersion to enhanced career prospects, the benefits of Erasmus+ are undeniable.

Whether you’re seeking personal growth, professional development, or global connections, Erasmus+ is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to elevate your life and education. If you’ve been considering studying abroad, Erasmus+ might just be the perfect program for you. For more information about the Erasmus+ program, visit the official Erasmus+ website and explore the possibilities awaiting you.

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