After an exchange experience abroad, returning to your Home University can be challenging. While the adventure of living in a new country may have expanded your horizons and enriched your perspective, settling back into familiar routines can feel daunting. It’s important to give yourself time to readjust, stay in touch with the friends you made during your exchange, and actively seek out opportunities to continue incorporating your newfound skills and experiences into your academic life.
Upon returning to your Home University, you can join various activities and initiatives to continue your personal growth and maintain a global mindset. Not only can you look for language exchange programs and cultural organizations to continue practicing the language(s) of the country where you recently lived, but volunteering opportunities, networking events, and workshops related to intercultural communication can also help you stay engaged and contribute to your academic community.
For instance, you can join the ESN student association as a volunteer or you can join the Buddy program at your university, providing support, assistance, and information to help the newcomers adjust and feel comfortable in their new surroundings (see the Mobility support section for further details).
Other opportunities may include Erasmus fairs, where you can contribute to promoting the University where you completed your exchange and give first-hand information and tips to students interested in that destination.
Additionally, your Home University might organize initiatives involving former exchange students, who are invited to spread the “Erasmus culture” by sharing their experience in various ways (written tales/resumes, podcasts, workshops, meetings, tandem learning, etc.). You can refer to the International Relations Office at your Home University.
Upon your return, you may also have the opportunity to become an Arqus Ambassador or participate in initiatives such as the Arqus Café, contributing to the promotion of international experiences and intercultural exchange within your university community.