ERASMUS+ PROGRAMME INFORMATION GUIDE FOR OUTGOING STUDENTS 2014/2015 2010/2011 academic year

INDEX International Education Office (Operations), University College Cork

May 2014

INDEX Page 1.

ABOUT THIS GUIDE .............................................................................................................. 1

2.

NOTE ON THE ERASMUS+ PROGRAMME...................................................................... 2

3.

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION OFFICE (OPERATIONS) ........................................... 3

4.

PLACEMENT PROCESS ........................................................................................................ 4

5.

ERASMUS PARTNER UNIVERSITIES ............................................................................... 4

6.

INFORMATION GUIDES ON UCC’S PARTNER UNIVERSITIES................................. 5

7.

HOW TO APPLY (INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION OFFICE) ...................................... 5

8.

REQUIREMENTS OF THE ERASMUS YEAR ABROAD ................................................. 8

9.

REGISTRATION FEES AT UCC & HOST UNIVERSITY ................................................ 9

10. ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS ................................................................................................... 9 11. FINANCIAL ASPECTS ........................................................................................................... 9

ERASMUS GRANT.............................................................................................................9 LOCAL AUTHORITY GRANTS .............................................................................................10 12. COST OF LIVING – YEAR ABROAD ................................................................................ 10 13. ACCOMMODATION AT HOST UNIVERSITY................................................................ 12 14. BANKING ............................................................................................................................... 13 15. HEALTH & TRAVEL INSURANCE ................................................................................... 13 16. INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CARD (ISIC) .................................................................... 14 17. MAKING TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS ............................................................................ 14 18. ARRIVAL AT YOUR DESTINATION ................................................................................ 14 19. WHAT IS ECTS? .................................................................................................................... 15 20. APPROVAL OF COURSES .................................................................................................. 15 21. LEARNING AGREEMENT .................................................................................................. 16 22. EXAMINATION RESULTS .................................................................................................. 16 23. SETTLING IN ......................................................................................................................... 16 24. BEING ABROAD ................................................................................................................... 17 25. PERSONAL SAFETY ............................................................................................................ 18 26. COMMUNICATION .............................................................................................................. 18 27. CODE OF CONDUCT ........................................................................................................... 19 28. ERASMUS PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION............................................................... 19 29. CHECKLIST ........................................................................................................................... 21 30. FORMS TO BE RETURNED TO UCC ............................................................................... 22 31. ERASMUS STUDENT CHARTER ...................................................................................... 23 32. MAKING THE MOST OF THE YEAR ABROAD: YOUR FUTURE CAREER ........... 25 33. FINAL MESSAGE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION OFFICE .............. 27

ANNEX A: (1) UCC ERASMUS DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATORS ................................................ 28 (2) OTHER UCC CONTACT DETAILS ................................................................................... 30 (3) OTHER USEFUL WEB ADDRESSES................................................................................. 31 (4)

EMBASSIES ABROAD ........................................................................................................ 32

(5) COUNTRY SPECIFIC WEBSITES ..................................................................................... 33 ANNNEX B: CONTACT DETAILS (ABROAD) ........................................................................ 34 ANNEX C: CERTIFICATE OF ARRIVAL ................................................................................ 35 ANNEX D: CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE ....................................................................... 36

1. ABOUT THIS GUIDE This guide is intended to help you through the preparations for studying abroad under the Erasmus programme, and to give you some useful advice for when you arrive. Read through it once to get an overview, and then go through each section in order to make sure that you have covered everything.

This guide has been produced by the International Education Office (Operations). We are the office within the University that administers the Erasmus Programme, and are 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 and/or your Director of Studies.)

Every effort has been made to provide both accurate and comprehensive information. If, whilst away, you find any information in this guide which is inaccurate or out-of-date, or you come across extra information which would be useful to future students, please pass it on to us so that we may improve our service.

Clare Murphy, Erasmus Administrator, International Education Office (Operations), University College Cork. Tel: (021) 4904726 Email: [email protected]

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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 year abroad are as follows: 

BA International o Includes the European Studies Pathway, Language and Cultural Studies Pathway and the Chinese Studies Pathway



BA Arts-Music European



BA Drama and Theatre Studies International



BA Film and Screen Media



BCL Law and French / Law International



BComm International – English/French/German/Italian/Spanish//Irish

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. In the 2014/2015 academic year, almost 200 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, 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. 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. 2

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 21st 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 between €200 - €250 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.

3. INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION OFFICE (Operations) The International Education Office (Operations) in UCC assists students in preparing for the year abroad. The International Education Office will contact the host university on behalf of the student and will offer them details of the placement. The host university will in turn email 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 Education 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, etc, 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 Administrator, International Education Office (Operations), Tel: (021) 4904726; Fax: (021) 4904735 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ucc.ie/international/erasmus-out/preparing/ 3

4. PLACEMENT PROCESS All students will meet with their Departmental Coordinator (see attached at Annex A) at the beginning of Teaching Period 2 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 their first or second preference. Departmental Coordinators will forward the final list of placements to the International Education Office in February. The International Education Office will then contact you by email to inform you of the next steps (see page 5).

5. ERASMUS PARTNER UNIVERSITIES Full details of UCC’s partner institutions in the EU may be found at: https://ucc.moveonnet.eu/moveonline/exchanges/search.php Please click on the relevant university for further information regarding their application procedures, semester dates, accommodation etc. Reports from students who have previously studied abroad are listed under each university (we may not have received reports for all universities).

Example: Université de Provence - Aix-Marseille I

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6. INFORMATION GUIDES ON UCC’S PARTNER UNIVERSITIES

The International Education 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: www.ucc.ie/international/erasmus-out/preparing/partner-universities/

7. HOW TO APPLY (International Education Office) Students are required to complete an online application form for the International Education Office. The application form is available at: http://ucc.moveonnet.eu/moveonline/outgoing/welcome.php NB: You will be required to provide your bank account details when completing the online application form.

Instructions for completing online application The application form has 5 sections: 1. Personal data This section requires you to enter your personal details. Please ensure you provide all the information requested. 2. Current Studies Please enter the details about your current programme of study at UCC. 

Field of Study/Department: please click on main subject area



Study Area (main subject areas are as follows): o o o o o o o

Arts-Music= 212 – Music and performing arts Drama and Theatre Studies= 212 – Music and performing arts European Studies=313 – Political Science and civics Language and Cultural Studies = 222 – Foreign languages BComm International= 340 – Business and administration (broad programmes) Government= 313 – Political Science and civics Law = 380 - Law 5

3. Host Destination Please enter details regarding your host destination. 

Mobility programme: o Erasmus Study – Please choose this option if you will be studying in Europe as part of your degree programme at UCC o Erasmus: Leave of Absence – Studying taking a leave of absence from UCC in order to study abroad should choose this option o Exchange (Non-EU) – Please choose this option if you will be studying outside Europe (e.g. students going to Guadalajara in Mexico)



Start Semester: If you will be beginning your studies in September/October 2014 please click on WS 2014/15. Students travelling from January 2015 should click on SS 2015.



Duration (Months): If you are going for one semester, you will go for between 3 and 5 months. If you are going for the full academic year, then you will go for 9 months.



Start of mobility: If you are not sure of the dates please enter: 1 Oct. 2014



End of mobility: If you are not sure of the dates please enter: 30 Jun. 2015

4. Language Skills This is straight forward – please enter the required details.

5. Mobility Grant 

Have you previously received an Erasmus grant? Please tell us if you received an Erasmus grant before.



Do you wish to apply for a grant? If you received a grant before, you cannot get a second one. Please select ‘no’. However, if this is your first Erasmus study visit then you are entitled to a grant. Please select ‘yes’.

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

Bank Details: Please have your bank account details with you when completing this section. You must provide the correct details here or you will not receive your Erasmus grant. o Bank Name: i.e. AIB, BOI, Ulster Bank etc. o Account/IBAN number: Generally an 8 digit number. Your account number will be written on your bank statements. Students who have an International Bank account should provide the full IBAN number. o Sorting Code/SWIFT: Generally a 6 digit number. Will be written your bank card or on your bank statement. Students who have an International Bank account should provide the swift code. o Account Holder: This is the name of the owner of the bank account.

Please ensure that you submit correct bank account details as any error will cause a delay in payment of the grant.

The completed online application form should be printed and signed by you and then submitted to: Clare Murphy International Education Office, University College Cork, Roseleigh, Western Road, Cork.

Deadline for Applications: Closing date for receipt of signed application forms is 21 March 2014.

Once the signed copy is received by the International Education Office 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).

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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

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.

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9. REGISTRATION FEES AT UCC & HOST UNIVERSITY 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. Be prepared for the level of bureaucracy at your host university during the first few weeks. You will be expected to complete form after form. Just remember to carry all your documents, bring with you numerous photocopies of these documents and countless passport photos.

10. 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 Education 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 stamped by the relevant health board

11. FINANCIAL ASPECTS 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 2014/2015: Amounts per month / Academic year = 9 months Austria: €250 Belgium: €200 Czech Republic: €200 Denmark: €250 Finland: €250 France: €250 Germany: €200 Iceland: €200

Italy: €250 Lithuania: €200 Netherlands: €200 Norway: €250 Portugal: €200 Spain: €200 Sweden: €250 UK: €250 9

Students are required to provide their bank account details when completing UCC’s online application form (see page 5). The ERASMUS grant will be paid in three instalments. Students will receive the first payment in October, the second payment in January/February and the final instalment in June/July.

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 Education 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.

12. COST OF LIVING – YEAR ABROAD Many students preparing to participate in the ERASMUS programme voice concerns about the financial aspects of the year abroad. Whilst students are not charged for tuition at the host institution, they will need to budget for flights, accommodation, food and other general expenses. Living abroad costs vary from country to country. 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, accommodation will be a major cost, but if you are not, you will usually find that accommodation costs are cheaper abroad than they are here in Ireland. In some countries you may be entitled to some local financial assistance towards the cost of your rent. For example, in France you will 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.

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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 Austria Accommodation

Belgium

€260 (Private) €315 (University)

Czech Republic €300 (Private)

€220 (University)

France

Germany

Italy

Netherlands

Norway

Scotland

Spain

€394 (Private)

€285 (Private)

€370 (Private)

€425 (Private)

£200 (Private)

€310 (Private)

€600-€1000 Private Paris

€225 (University)

€200 (University)

€420 (University)

€415 (University)

£450 (University)

€250 (University) €62

€20

€30

€30

€60

€25

Included in rent €25

£6

€28

Included in rent €20

£18

€30

Phone Bills

Included in rent €30

Included in rent €25

Included in rent €20

Food

€200

€150

€100

€136

€150

€125

€310

€250

£200

€155

Transport

€35

€50

€10

€30

€30

€25

€40

€50

£50

€50

Travel

€200

€50

€100

€120

€80

€80

€60

€150

£100

€85

Textbooks & Stationery

€20

€20

€20

€25

€20

€50

€60

£20

€20

Student Life (Social functions, sport, etc.)

€150

€60

€200

€115

€110

€80

€150

€275

£250

€135

Total (per month)

€895 /€950

€615

€730

€905/€761

€724 /€674

€755 /€585

€1270 /€1435

€1120

£794 /£1044

€815

Electricity

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13. ACCOMMODATION AT HOST UNIVERSITY Students should be aware that student accommodation is not always offered or made available by UCC’s partner universities. While University College Cork will try to advise in relation to your accommodation abroad, you should note that UCC’s contract with the host universities is an academic contract only. Where student accommodation is not offered by the partner university, it is strongly recommended that you make suitable arrangements before term commences in order to secure reasonable accommodation for your stay abroad. In relation to university accommodation, we would ask you to keep in mind that UCC on-campus accommodation tends generally to be of a higher standard than that which is offered abroad. Students should complete Accommodation Application Forms (which will be forwarded by the host university) as soon as possible, as accommodation is often allocated on a “first come first served” basis. The host university does not guarantee accommodation for any student. Please note that it is common practice for university residences to request a deposit in advance. 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. In the case of private accommodation, you are advised to be careful signing contracts – read the small print. 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. 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? Is bed linen etc supplied or should you bring your own? From what date will accommodation be available? Opening hours of reception etc.

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14. 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. AIB Internet banking, for example, offers the following 24hour on-line services: View account balances and statements, order a statement, organize a funds transfer, pay bills online, mobile phone top-up, account maintenance.

15. HEALTH & TRAVEL INSURANCE All students going abroad are advised to have comprehensive health and travel insurance policy. European Health Insurance Card Students will need the European Health Insurance Card which is obtainable from the relevant local health board. The EHIC entitles holders to full medical treatment in any European Union country, for any condition, whether or not it is of an emergency nature. When applying for the EHIC you will need to present a letter from the International Education Office confirming your placement (this will be sent to your home address). You will also be required to provide your PPS number. Full information on the EHIC is available on the European Health Insurance Card website: http://www.ehic.ie

Private Health Insurance If you are covered by your parents’ private Health Insurance plan, you should confirm the actual level of cover you will have while abroad. Make sure that you keep a record of any emergency numbers that they give you in case you have to make a claim.

Travel Insurance Students are advised to secure private travel cover for the duration of the period abroad. Just because you have emergency health insurance it does not mean you will be covered for delayed or cancelled flights, loss of luggage or money while you travel. Students should consult the web along with health insurance companies.

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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. http://www.isic.org/

17. 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.

18. 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. 14



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!

19. WHAT IS ECTS? Most European institutions use the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) in order to provide common procedures to guarantee academic recognition of studies abroad. ECTS provides a way of measuring and comparing academic merits, and transferring them from one institution to another - 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). A typical annual UCC course load is 60 ECTS credits so you should plan to obtain around 30 ECTS credits per semester whilst away. Please talk to your Departmental Erasmus Coordinator and/or Director of Studies for advice on course requirements.

20. APPROVAL OF COURSES You will be required to take courses of a certain type and of a certain standard during your year abroad. Full information on these courses will be provided by your departmental coordinator (s) in advance of your departure. Students should consult with their 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.

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21. LEARNING AGREEMENT Students should complete a Learning Agreement (available online) listing the courses they wish to study at the Host University. This should be done in consultation with your departmental coordinator(s). The Learning Agreement should be signed by the departmental coordinator(s) at UCC and returned to the Host University for approval. Should you change this Learning Agreement on arrival at your host university, please complete page two of the Learning Agreement. This should be signed by the host institution and then returned to your UCC departmental coordinator (s) for approval. 22. EXAMINATION RESULTS Examination results from your year abroad should be submitted to the International Education 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 Education 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.

23. 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 home-sickness 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).

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24. BEING ABROAD It is important to keep in touch with your Academic Department(s) and the International Education Office while abroad. Students are also asked to leave an email address that they check regularly with the International Education 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 Education Office will provide all students with a Contact Details Form (Abroad) (see annex B). You are required to complete and return this form to the International Education Office [include name, address, email and telephone number(s)]. 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 Education 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 Education 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 17



Make use of your host university’s support system; e.g. International Office, Counselling Service (if available)

25. 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. 26. COMMUNICATION To telephone Ireland while abroad, dial the international access code of the host country + 353 + the area code (less the ‘0’) + local number. A guide to emergency services and international telephone codes: 18

COUNTRY

INTERNATIONAL ACCESS CODE

COUNTRY CODE

POLICE

AMBULANCE

Austria Belgium Czech Republic Denmark Finland France Germany Italy Netherlands Norway Portugal Spain Sweden UK

00 00 00

43 32 420

133 101 158/112

144/122 100 115/112

00 990 00 00 00 00 00 00 07 009 00

45 358 33 49 39 31 47 351 34 46 44

112 10022 17 110 112 112 112 115 091 90000 999

112 112 15 112 118 112 113 112 061 90000 999

112 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 112. 27. 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.

28. ERASMUS PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION Each year the International Education 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! 19

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 2mb. Photographs in landscape format will only be considered. Please do not submit photographs in portrait format. Each entry must include the name and email 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 Education Office, UCC the rights to use and publicise your photograph in various media.



 

How to enter By Email: Clare Murphy: [email protected] By Post: Post a CD Rom containing photographs to: Clare Murphy, International Education 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: 2nd Prize: 3rd Prize:

€250 €150 €50

Plus, the fourteen best photographs (as decided by our panel of judges) will be included in a calendar which will be produced for 2016.

Deadline All entries should be submitted by August 2015.

20

29. 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 return your Learning Agreement (obtainable from your UCC departmental coordinator/International Education Office) for the courses you will study abroad to your host university before the required date.



Find out as much as you can about you destination before you depart (e.g. from the International Education Office/ other students / embassies / tourist offices)



When booking your flights, make sure that you have checked the start and end dates of the academic year at the host university



Notify your contact persons of your date and approximate time of arrival



Obtain the name, address, phone/fax numbers and email of your contact persons abroad



Have a valid passport and bring it with you, together with travel tickets



Have details of your accommodation and make sure that you will have access to your accommodation at the time when you arrive



Bring your European Health Insurance Card, private insurance cover and travel insurance (if applicable)



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 Education Office before you leave your host university at the end of the year.



Check your email regularly while you are studying abroad 21

30. FORMS TO BE RETURNED TO UCC Prior to Departure:  

Online application form (including your bank account details) 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 Learning Agreement – to be returned to your sending academic department at UCC to record your subjects for the year

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 Education Office before you leave your host university at the end of the year.



Submit your Student Report to the International Education Office – this will be forwarded to you during the second semester of your year abroad and is a questionnaire based on your study period abroad.

22

31. 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 university1 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 (http://europa.eu.int/comm/education/erasmus.html). 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.



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.

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. 23

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. Email: [email protected]

24

32. 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. 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.

25

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, University College, Western Road, Cork. Telephone: 021 4902349 Fax: 021 4903558 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ucc.ie/careers Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday: 9.30 – 5.00pm Friday: 9.30 – 4.00pm Open throughout lunchtime

26

33. FINAL MESSAGE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION 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 Education Office at the details below: Clare Murphy, International Education Office (Operations), University College Cork. Tel: +353 21 490 4726 Fax: +353 21 490 4735 Email: [email protected]

Enjoy your exchange!

27

ANNEX A

(1)

UCC ERASMUS DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATORS

PROGRAMME

COORDINATOR(1)

COORDINATOR(2)

LCS FRENCH

Dr. Martin Howard Department of French Tel: +353 21 4902702 Fax: +353 21 4903284 Email: [email protected]

BCOMM FRENCH

Professor Patrick O’Donovan Department of French Tel: +353 21 4902887/2702 Fax: +353 21 4903284 Email: [email protected]

LAW FRENCH

Dr. Seán Ó Conaill Department of Law Tel: +353 21 4903811 Fax: +353 21 4270690 Email: [email protected]

LCS GERMAN

Ms. Ditte Bellettre Department of German Tel: +353 21 4902078 Fax: +353 21 4903245 Email: [email protected]

BCOMM GERMAN

Dr. Siobhan Mortell Department of German Tel: +353 21 4902179/2078 Fax: +353 21 4903245 Email: [email protected]

Mr. Daniel Blackshields Department of Economics Tel: +353 21 4903515/3574 Fax: +353 21 4273920 Email: [email protected]

LAW GERMAN

Dr. Seán Ó Conaill Department of Law Tel: +353 21 4903811 Fax: +353 21 4270690 Email: [email protected]

Dr. Gert Hofmann Department of German Tel: +353 21 4902283/2078 Fax: +353 21 4903245 Email: [email protected]

Dr. Paul Hegarty Department of French Tel: +353 21 4903287/2702 Fax: +353 21 4903284 Email: [email protected]

28

ANNEX A

LCS ITALIAN

Dr. Silvia Ross Department of Italian Tel: +353 21 4903169/2335 Fax: +353 21 4903263 Email: [email protected]

BCOMM ITALIAN

Dr. Mark Chu Department of Italian Tel: +353 21 4902486/2335 Fax: +353 21 4903263 Email: [email protected]

LCS SPANISH

Dr. Stephen Boyd Department of Hispanic Studies Tel: +353 21 4902509/2240 Fax: +353 21 4903264 Email: [email protected]

BCOMM SPANISH

Dr. Cara Levey Department of Hispanic Studies Tel: +353 21 4903268/2240 Fax: +353 21 4903264 Email: [email protected]

BCOMM IRISH

Máiréad Ní Loingsigh Department of Modern Irish/ Roinn na Nua-Ghaeilge Tel: +353 21 4903308 Fax: +353 21 4903102 Email: [email protected]

BCL INTERNATIONAL

Dr. Claire Murray Department of Law Tel: +353 21 4903809 Fax: +353 21 4270690 Email: [email protected]

EUROPEAN STUDIES

Ms. Katherine McGarry Department of History Tel: +353 21 4902446 Fax: +353 21 4270191 Email: [email protected]

Dr. John Doran Department of Accounting, Finance and Information Systems Tel: +353 21 4902555/3345 Fax: +353 21 4903346 Email: [email protected]

29

ANNEX A

(2)

OTHER UCC CONTACT DETAILS

International Education Office

Clare Murphy Erasmus Administrator Tel: + 353 21 4904726 Fax: +353 21 4904735 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ucc.ie/international

Careers Office

Tel: + 353 21 4902121/2500 Fax: + 353 21 4903558 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ucc.ie/careers

Fees/Scholarships/Grants Office

Tel: + 353 21 4902365/2847 Fax: + 353 21 4903459 Email: [email protected] Web: hwww.ucc.ie/en/financeoffice/fees/

Student Counselling & Development

Mr. Paul Moriarty Head of Student Counselling and Development Tel: + 353 21 4903565 Text: 087 2453840 Fax: + 353 21 4903222 Email: [email protected]/ [email protected] Web: www.ucc.ie/services/health

Student Records & Examinations Office

Fax: +353 21 4903448 Tel: +353 21 4902423 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ucc.ie/en/records-exams/

30

ANNEX A

(3)

OTHER USEFUL WEB ADDRESSES

The Irish Examiner

www.irishexaminer.com

The Irish Times

www.ireland.com/

The Irish Independent

www.unison.ie/irish_independent

Ryan Air

www.ryanair.com/

Aerlingus

www.aerlingus.com/

USIT

www.usit.ie/

VHI

www.vhi.ie/

Laya Healthcare

http://www.layahealthcare.ie/

Aviva

http://www.avivahealth.ie/

AIB

www.aib.ie/

Bank of Ireland

www.bankofireland.ie/

Ulster Bank

www.ulsterbank.ie/

Permanent TSB

www.permanenttsb.ie

National Irish Bank

www.nib.ie/

Irish Government Departments

www.irlgov.ie/

Irish Dept of Foreign Affairs

www.gov.ie/iveagh/

RTE

www.rte.ie/

Peoples Republic of Cork

www.peoplesrepublicofcork.com/

Rough Guides

www.travel.roughguides.com

Lonely Planet

www.lonelyplanet.com

myerasmus

www.myerasmus.com

CasaSwap

www.casaswap.com

Just Landed

http://www.justlanded.com/english?goto_url=http://www.ju stlanded.com/espanol

Witmeet

http://witmeet.com/

31

ANNEX A

(4)

EMBASSIES ABROAD

AUSTRIA

Embassy of Ireland and Permanent Mission of Ireland to the International Organisations in Vienna Rotenturmstraße 16-18, Fifth Floor, 1010 Vienna, Austria Tel: + 43 1 7154246; Fax: + 43 1 7136004; Email: [email protected]

Belgium

Embassy of Ireland Rue Weirz, 50 Wiertzstraat, 1050 Brussels, Belgium Tel: +32 2 2356676; Fax: +32 2 2356671; Email: [email protected]

Denmark

Embassy of Ireland Ostbanegade 21, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark Tel: + 43 35 423233; Fax: +45 35 431858; Email: [email protected]

France

4 Rue Rude 75116 Paris, France Tel: +33 1 44176700; Fax: +33 1 44176736; Email: [email protected]

Germany

Friedrichstraße 200 D-10117 Berlin, Germany Tel: +49 30 220 720; Fax: +49 30 220 7229; Website: http://botschaft-irland.de

Italy

Embassy of Ireland Piazza di Campitelli 3, 00186 Rome, Italy Tel: +39 06 6979121; Fax: +39 06 6792354; Website: http://www.ambasciata-irlanda.it

The Netherlands

Dr. Kuyperstraat 9 2514 BA The Hague, The Netherlands Tel: +31 70 3630993; Fax: +31 70 3617604; Email: [email protected] Website: www.irishembassy.nl

Spain

Ireland House Paseo de la Castellana 46-4, 28046 Madrid, Spain Tel: +34 91 4364093; Fax: +34 91 4351677; Email: [email protected]

Sweden

Ostermalmsgatan 97 P.O. Box 10326, 100 55 Stockholm, Sweden Tel: +46 8 6618005; Fax: +46 8 6601353; Email: [email protected]

United Kingdom

17 Grosvenor Place London SW1X 7HR, United Kingdom Tel: +44 207 2352171; Fax: +44 207 2456961

32

ANNEX A

(5)

COUNTRY SPECIFIC WEBSITES

Austria

Austrian Embassy – Visiting/Living in Austria

www.austro.org/e/vis_inf/vis_frames.html

Belgium

Information resources

www.usembassy.be/belgium/belliving.htm

Denmark

Copenhagen on a low budget

www.useit.dk

France

Studying in France

www.edufrance.fr/en/

Housing Abroad (France)

www.housingabroad.com

Germany

German Academic Exchange Centre (DAAD)

www.daad.de/deutschland/en www.campus-germany.de/ www.hrk.de

Italy

Postoletto Accommodation

www.postoletto.com

Joglife Services Milan

www.joglife.com

Spain info

www.spain-info.com/Living-in-Spain-Directory.htm

Welcome Cultural Exchange

www.welcome.org.es

Living and Studying in Spain

www.arestudent.com

Barcelona Connect

www.barcelonaconnect.com

Official gateway to Sweden

www.sweden.se

Spain

Sweden

33

ANNEX B

ERASMUS Programme – Year abroad CONTACT DETAILS (ABROAD)

Please complete and return to Clare Murphy, International Education Office

Fax: 00 353 21 4904735

Email: [email protected]

Name: Name of Host University:

Degree Programme: (e.g. BA International, BComm International)

Address at host country:

Email address:

Telephone no.:

34

ANNEX C

ERASMUS PROGRAMME CERTIFICATE OF ARRIVAL To be completed by the Host Institution

Name of Student: Name of Home Institution: University College Cork, Ireland. ERASMUS Code:

IRL – CORK01

Name of Host Institution: ERASMUS Code:

We confirm that the above mentioned student arrived at this institution on: Date:

__ __ / __ __ / __ __ __ __ dd / mm / yyyy

Name: ___________________________________________________________ Official function: _________________________________________________ Signature:________________________________________________________ Date: _________________________

Stamp:

Please return certificate to the International Education Office, University College Cork, Ireland Fax: 00 353 21 4904735.

35

ANNEX D ERASMUS PROGRAMME CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE To be completed by the Host Institution

Name of Student: Name of Home Institution: University College Cork, Ireland. ERASMUS Code:

IRL – CORK01

Host Institution: ERASMUS Code:

We confirm that the above mentioned student was a registered student: From:

__ __ / __ __ / __ __ __ __ dd / mm / yyyy

To:

__ __ / __ __ / __ __ __ __ dd / mm / yyyy

Name: ___________________________________________________________ Official function: _________________________________________________ Signature:________________________________________________________ Date: _________________________

Stamp:

Please return certificate to the International Education Office, University College Cork, Ireland Fax: 00 353 21 4904735.

36

This brochure has been published with the financial assistance of the European Commission.