The impact of Erasmus exchange program on student’s personal and professional development
Session
Psychology
Description
Background: Studying abroad comes with many possibilities for students among them being enhancing their professional skills as well as personal growth. On the other hand, this experience can come with challenges especially in cultural aspect.
Goal: This study aimed to understand the experience, challenges, opportunities students from Social Work Department, University of Prishtina “Hasan Prishtina” had during the Erasmus exchange program and after their return in Kosovo.
Methods: A targeted sample of 27 participants (n=27), among them 89% females and 11% male withing age range of 18-26 years old were selected. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the data was analyzed using thematic analysis, and through the coding process various categories were identified.
Results: Students reported that Erasmus exchange program shaped them in the personal aspect by giving more independence and competences on personal and professional life, as well as on changing their perceptions regarding career plans. Among challenges, the different culture, different social and educational system, and family longing were emphasized.
Conclusion: Students who followed Erasmus exchange program reported it as a positive experience which helped them have a stronger formation of their personal and professional identity. However, based on recognized challenges it is crucial to offer student support programs during their semester abroad and especially after their return (readaptation) in their home country.
Keywords:
exchange students, studying abroad, students’ development, Erasmus+, Social Work.
Proceedings Editor
Edmond Hajrizi
ISBN
978-9951-550-50-5
Location
Lipjan, Kosovo
Start Date
29-10-2022 12:00 AM
End Date
30-10-2022 12:00 AM
DOI
10.33107/ubt-ic.2022.29
Recommended Citation
Llullaku, Njomza and Selimi, Rita, "The impact of Erasmus exchange program on student’s personal and professional development" (2022). UBT International Conference. 29.
https://knowledgecenter.ubt-uni.net/conference/2022/all-events/29
The impact of Erasmus exchange program on student’s personal and professional development
Lipjan, Kosovo
Background: Studying abroad comes with many possibilities for students among them being enhancing their professional skills as well as personal growth. On the other hand, this experience can come with challenges especially in cultural aspect.
Goal: This study aimed to understand the experience, challenges, opportunities students from Social Work Department, University of Prishtina “Hasan Prishtina” had during the Erasmus exchange program and after their return in Kosovo.
Methods: A targeted sample of 27 participants (n=27), among them 89% females and 11% male withing age range of 18-26 years old were selected. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the data was analyzed using thematic analysis, and through the coding process various categories were identified.
Results: Students reported that Erasmus exchange program shaped them in the personal aspect by giving more independence and competences on personal and professional life, as well as on changing their perceptions regarding career plans. Among challenges, the different culture, different social and educational system, and family longing were emphasized.
Conclusion: Students who followed Erasmus exchange program reported it as a positive experience which helped them have a stronger formation of their personal and professional identity. However, based on recognized challenges it is crucial to offer student support programs during their semester abroad and especially after their return (readaptation) in their home country.