study and work abroad guide 2019-20 and work... · 4 university of kent / study and work abroad...

The UK’s European university

STUDY AND WORKABROAD GUIDE2019-20For students on a study or work placementin Europe

CHECK LIST 3

Essential things to do before you leave campus

Complete required documents promptlySee your Academic Co-ordinator about courses p6Make contact with other students p11Read this Guide carefully!

Essential things to do before you depart for your placement

Make sure that your Learning Agreement is signed by the host before you arrive p6Ensure that you have a valid passport p11Register for Kent’s free, compulsory insurance p18Obtain a visa, if necessary p11Make sure your contact details are correct on your Kent student record(SDS) p11Book your travel and accommodation p12Make sure you know where to go and what to do on arrival p15Make financial arrangements p16Pack this Guide! You will need it during your stay.

Essential things to do when you arrive

Get your arrival certificate signedSee the Academic Co-ordinator at the host university to update yourLearning Agreement p6Keep in touch! p21

“Without a doubt, it has been the toughestyear of my life. However, I have learned somuch and therefore it has actually becomethe best year ever. Thank you so much forthis amazing opportunity.”

Wishwara HiddalarachchiGermanUniversity of Freiburg

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INTRODUCTION

Studying or working abroad is an exciting opportunity to expand youracademic and employment horizons, to experience other cultures in depthand to develop as a person.

Contents

Introduction 1

Personal preparation 3

Attending a university– what to expect 5

Attending a university– studying abroad 6

Assistantships and other workplacements 9

Attending two placements 10

Pre-departure procedures 11

Accommodation 12

Travel 13

Arrival 15

Finance 16

Insurance 18

Health and Welfare 19

Personal safety 20

Keeping in touch 21

Problem solving and emergencies 22

Returning to Kent 23

Employability Skills 24

Regulations 25

This Guide is intended to give you general advice tohelp you prepare for your time abroad. It is anessential supplement to your own research and theinformation you will receive from your host institution,school or employer.

Please read this guide in its entirety before leavingKent. If you have any further questions, please donot hesitate to contact the Erasmus Team.

The Erasmus Team is responsible for:• Information about and help with all organisationalaspects of the time abroad

• Liaison with partner universities• Support for students before and during the periodabroad

• Collection of Year Abroad marks

Lastly we wish you the best of luck with yourplacement and encourage you to make the most ofall of the opportunities that will come your way.Remember that you are also ambassadors for theUniversity of Kent, so do us proud!

With best wishes

Janet Wilson-Sharp, Brechje Klok-White andFrançoise McKeeErasmus Team

International Partnerships, The RegistryUniversity of Kent, CanterburyKent CT2 7NZ, UKT: + 44 (0)1227 827818 or 824042E: [email protected]/goabroad

www.kent.ac.uk/goabroad

“It was definitely the bestexperience of my life, it’s verydifficult accepting the fact thatit’s over now! Ireland feels likea second home now thoughwhich is amazing, and I willbe going back very soon.”

George RayHistoryUniversity College Cork

2 University of Kent / Study and Work Abroad Guide 2019-20

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PERSONAL PREPARATION

Your time abroad will be anunforgettable experience, which willbe made even more fulfilling if youprepare well before you leave.

ConsiderThe more you put into your time abroad, the moreyou are likely to get out of it!

• What do you hope to get out of your time abroad?• What skills do you want to develop?• What attitude will you take with you? Going with arealistic attitude can make a big difference.

Cultural awarenessOn arrival you will need to learn new skills and beready to adapt to the host country’s culture. You willprobably encounter a range of differences over theperiod, some may be more obvious, or easier to getused to, than others.

There will of course be obvious cultural differences– history, language, religion, etc – but you may findthat some differences are subconscious:assumptions about nationality, age, howrelationships work, attitudes to authority etc.

Communication differences do not just affect thosewho are studying a foreign language: you might findthere are differences of writing or speaking style,body language, or expectations of formality. Forexample, in some countries, calling an academic byhis/her first name would be frowned upon.

You may also find that your expectations vary oreven conflict with the expectations of those aroundyou. This could be something as simple asexpectations of personal space or as broad as thedivision of tasks between students and universitystaff. The latter can be a challenge as many hostuniversities expect students to find information bythemselves or to organise their own moduleregistration and timetable. In some cases, this mightbe done in a low tech/high effort way rather thanthrough an online system.

• Kent student questionnaires: Completed by Kentstudents during their time abroad, these cover arange of important topics from accommodation tofinance to socialising. (Available in InternationalPartnerships)

• Other students: The Erasmus Team can help youcontact Kent students who are at/have been atyour destination and incoming students from thatcity/country

• Academic Co-ordinator in your Kent school:He/she will help you with academic mattersrelated to the time abroad

• This guide

Culture shockWhilst the best advice from our students is to‘embrace the differences’, it can take time to do soand many experience culture shock in some formduring the time abroad. This is normal and can bevaluable as you develop new skills and self-awareness to deal with the changes. Allow yourselftime to adjust: some adapt very quickly (or appear todo so!), for others the process is much more gradual.

ResourcesMake the most of the resources available to helpyou prepare for the time abroad.


“Best year of my life, neverhave change and educationinmy life been so significant,also met some of the bestfriends I will ever have.”

Ryan GoodgeDrama and FilmUniversiteit Utrecht


“I have learnt so much this yearand developed and grown somuch in ways I don’t thinkI could have if I had not beenpushed out of my comfort zoneby this year abroad! The yearabroad was very beneficial tomy personal development.”

Tobi Kolawole-OlutadePolitics and International Relations with a Yearin Continental EuropeUniversity of Tampere

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ATTENDING A UNIVERSITY – WHAT TO EXPECT

Our partner universities have been hand-picked by your schools to allow you tohave a useful and interesting academic experience. Some may be bigger andmore bureaucratic than Kent, others may be surprisingly laidback! In mostcases, the exchanges have been running for many years so the Erasmus Teamand your Academic Co-ordinator know the partner well and have good contactswith staff there.

Language coursesMany universities offer a pre-sessional or term-timelanguage course. Although these courses are notusually compulsory, they are a useful way to improvelanguage skills and an opportunity to make friendsand start finding your way around. There may be afee to cover tuition. Course information will beprovided by the host universities.

If the course takes place before the start of term,make sure that you have accommodation for thatperiod. In some cases, participants are awardedECTS credits for successful completion of thecourse. If so, ask your Academic Co-ordinator atKent whether these credits can be counted towardsthe 60 ECTS credit total for the year.

The host university will give you details of usefuladministrative and academic contacts there.Exchange students often get additional help withprocedures or have sightseeing trips or partiesarranged especially for them.

Don’t forget that adapting to the culture of studyingin another country is part of the experience of theperiod abroad! The first few weeks may bechallenging, but this can be overcome with an openmind and positive attitude. A few notes are givenbelow to help you prepare for the differences:

Registration proceduresThese can seem complicated and frustrating as thesystems may not be what you are used to at Kent.(Incoming exchange students to Kent sometimesfeel the same way!) Be prepared to devote time andenergy to registration and don’t be afraid to ask localstaff or students for help. Do participate in anyorientation programmes offered by the universitybecause these will often include help withregistration.

Style of teachingThere is a wide variation in teaching styles. Someare similar to Kent, having lectures and seminarswith an emphasis on discussion and analysis.Others teach primarily through lectures with anemphasis on the student learning from lecturers andset texts. It can be difficult to get used to the latter,but the knowledge obtained can be put to excellentuse in adding depth to your work at Kent. (In somecases, lecture halls are packed and it is necessaryto arrive early to get a seat.)

AssessmentAgain, procedures may not be the same as in theUK. Invigilation may be more relaxed and notificationof exam dates given at short notice. Universities inScandinavia sometimes use ‘book exams’. Manyuniversities, particularly in Italy, use oralexaminations with a panel of examiners as well as(or instead of) written examinations for manydifferent subjects, not just language modules. Somestudents appreciate this style of exam because lessemphasis may be placed on grammar and, ofcourse, spelling and writing style!

University staffExchange students will have an Academic Co-ordinator who can be contacted about academicproblems. He/she may be more accessible thanother tutors, who may not have office hours or anoffice in the university, and will be used to queriesfrom exchange students. Contacting class tutors isbest done by speaking to them after the class or byemailing to arrange an appointment.

The academic yearMost mainland European universities have a twosemester system with exams at the end of eachteaching period. A few universities have ‘blocks’ ofteaching with students taking one or two courses ineach block and then being assessed immediately.Term/semester dates will be made available by yourhost university either online or in the information theysend you.

Social lifeThere is a greater distinction between study andsocialising at most partner universities than at Kent.In some countries, like France, students will socialiseat bars and clubs in the city where they are basedand will keep the residences as places to study andsleep. The student questionnaires in InternationalPartnerships give lots of information about the sociallife at each university, whether for all students or forexchange students in particular. Exchange studentsare often in the fortunate position of having parties,events and trips arranged especially for them by thelocal International Office.

OrientationMany universities offer orientation meetings andevents to help students to settle in. Orientationevents are highly recommended: some include toursand events and help is often given with registration.Most universities also provide language classes forexchange students either before or during theacademic year.

Your host university may arrange mentoring withlocal students or a Tandem language programme.Both are highly recommended for language learningand making friends. Information will be sent by thehost university.


“Get out of your comfort zone!I cannot stress it enough. It is going to be the best yearof your life.”

Eugenie ValentinEuropean Studies (Combined Languages)Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna

If you have any questions after reading thisinformation, please contact your Kent Academic co-ordinator or the Erasmus Team in InternationalPartnerships.

All students must fill in a Learning Agreement andkeep it updated throughout the study placement.The Learning Agreement is an obligatory academiccontract between you, Kent and your host university.

Choosing coursesYou should meet with your Academic Co-ordinator todiscuss a provisional study programme and prepareyour Learning Agreement in the summer term. A listof Academic Co-ordinators will be sent to you byemail.

Before you go to see your co-ordinator, get as muchcourse information as you can from your hostuniversity’s website/documentation or from thereference Learning Agreements in InternationalPartnerships. Your co-ordinator at Kent will adviseyou about specific course requirements. Please notethat many universities publish their course informationmuch later than at Kent. In some cases, particularlyin Spain and Italy, courses may not be finalised untilshortly before the start of the academic year!Therefore, the Learning Agreement is provisionaluntil arrival when you will be able to make changes.

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Your time abroad is an integral part of your degree. Because of this, you areexpected to attend classes and obtain credits and marks.

CreditsYou should choose and register courses worth 30ECTS per semester (60 ECTS in total). A fewuniversities have agreed with us a different totalnumber of ECTS which your co-ordinator will discusswith you. If, at any stage, you think it will not bepossible to get 30 ECTS in total per semester, pleasenotify the co-ordinator and the Erasmus Team.

1 ECTS is equivalent to 2 Kent credits; so 30 ECTSis equivalent to 60 Kent credits, the normal workloadfor a term.

European Credit Transfer andAccumulation System (ECTS)The University has adopted ECTS in the context ofour European connections and activities.

ECTS was developed by the European Commissionin order to provide common procedures toguarantee academic recognition of studies abroad.It provides a way of measuring and comparinglearning achievements, and transferring them fromone institution to another.

Completing a Learning AgreementWhen you have chosen your courses, write themon your Learning Agreement and get it signed byyour Academic Co-ordinator. It is easiest to do thisbefore you leave Kent. Students who will split theyear between two placements should prepare twoLearning Agreements.

When it has been signed by the Kent co-ordinator,send it to the host university for signature, keeping acopy for yourself. Please ask them to return thesigned Agreement to you. You should then give usan electronic or paper copy. You will take the originalwith you to the host. If there is any delay/difficulty,please notify the Erasmus Team,[email protected].

If your host university expects you to fill in theirversion of the Learning Agreement, that will be fine.It is not obligatory to fill in the Kent version as well.The important things are that you have a complete,correct, signed Learning Agreement and that theErasmus Team has a copy of it.

Changing coursesOn arrival you may find that your agreed courses areno longer available or clash with other modules. Ifyou find yourself in this situation, you should followthe host university’s procedures for choosing newcourses. (In many cases, the partner universityallows several weeks for students to attend lots ofdifferent courses before deciding which ones theywant to register for!)

When you have decided, make sure that you amendyour course registration – following the hostuniversity’s procedures – and then update yourLearning Agreement. Fill in the ‘During the mobility’section of your Learning Agreement, get it signed byyour host co-ordinator and then return it by email orpost to Kent. You should repeat this process if youmake changes later in the year.

University of Kent / Study and Work Abroad Guide 2019-20

ATTENDING A UNIVERSITY – STUDYING ABROAD

“It is very different to the studiesin the UK. However, this is theentire point of travelling abroadand experiencing new teachingand assessment methods. It ishard to get used to the constantmonitoring (exams – mid terms )but it becomes second natureonce you have settled.”

Wendy NevesPolitics and International Relations (Language)Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

7www.kent.ac.uk/goabroad

Course registrationAlthough the Learning Agreement is obligatory, itmay not complete your course registration. You mustcomplete the host university’s process as well andregister your modules with them.

You may find that the host university registers younot simply to a module but to a particular class andtutor as well. If you attend the right class but with thewrong tutor or do not register your modulescorrectly, it may be impossible to get your marks atthe end of the year.

Academic stresses

The beginning of the time abroad can be stressfuland it takes time to adapt to the new lifestyle andacademic differences. Some find that their firstmarks are not what they have been used to or thatthey are struggling to adjust to the new system. Thisis a normal part of the study abroad experience andusually students find that the marks improve in thesecond semester when they are feeling much moresettled and confident.

If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry! If you have specific concerns, contact your coursetutor or Academic Co-ordinator at the partneruniversity for advice. Try to get to know otherstudents in your class: they may be able to help youwith notes and understanding the local systems. Ifyou are very concerned about marks or settling in,notify your Academic Co-ordinator and the ErasmusTeam at Kent.

Disruption of studiesDo your best to undertake all the classes andassessment in order to achieve the required marksand credits. If your work/exams are adverselyaffected by strikes, ill health etc, it is essential thatyou notify your Academic Co-ordinator and theErasmus Team at Kent as soon as possible. In caseof prolonged or serious illness, please ensure thatyou get a medical certificate from thedoctor/hospital because it will be needed by yourhost university and by Kent.

Marks and transcriptsBefore you leave the host university, check that youhave completed the necessary procedures to obtainyour marks. You should follow their procedures verycarefully and submit any required documentation(eg Scheine or Libretto). You must also request atranscript before your departure. Bear in mind that itis much easier to sort this out while you are still atthe partner university!

Students in Italy may be given a ‘Libretto’ whichmust be presented at the International Office at thehost university at the end of the stay/exams so that aTranscript of Marks can be issued. The completedLibretto may be returned to you, in which case youshould bring it to the Erasmus Team at Kent at thestart of your final year. Students in Germany must prepare any required‘Referat’ or ‘Klausur’, in order to obtain a‘Leistungsschein’ or ‘benoteter Schein’ for eachcourse. However, increasing numbers of universitiesare producing an ECTS transcript rather than issuingScheine. Students at Lausanne should request theirmarks from each tutor.

Submitting your transcriptIt is your responsibility to ensure that the ErasmusTeam at Kent has received your transcript by Week 2of your final year, whether from you or your hostuniversity. Check that all courses attended and themarks and credits attached to them are recorded onthe transcript. The transcript should include thegrade normally awarded by the local institution, theequivalent ECTS grades and the ECTS credits.

If you think a mark is wrong or a course is missing,you must contact the relevant office at your partneruniversity to request an amended transcript. Youmust notify the Erasmus Team at Kent about this.

Important note about failing coursesIf you find that you have failed exams or otherassessment, please notify your Academic Co-ordinator at Kent and, if possible, re-sit the exam.

Students who do not take sufficient credits or do notachieve the required credits and marks without anadequate reason risk failing the Year/Term Abroad.

“The teaching was great, with aremarkable competence for theEnglish Language. As were thefacilities, seminars and lecturesand all people concerned with mylearning around campus. (...)

A wonderful experience that Iwould strongly recommend, havemet some extraordinary peopleand had a great time living in aforeign city.”

Eliot McGowanClassics and Archaeological StudiesVrije Universiteit Amsterdam


“If you go for it, it can be the bestyear of your life. My expectationsin September were that I wouldimprove my French and havesome fun in the meantime but Idid not realise the immenseimpact living abroad can have onyour life perspective, independenceand wellbeing. I feel trulyhumbled that I was lucky enoughto spend a year learning andliving in a country with suchgreat people and an amazingculture different to my own.”

Amelia WilliamsFrench and HistoryUniversité de Génève

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ASSISTANTSHIPS AND OTHER WORK PLACEMENTS

Working abroad is an exciting and challenging opportunity, providing aninsight into potential careers and a chance to make useful contacts.

AssistantshipsAssistants will find that most information will comefrom the British Council information packs and frompre-departure webinars and induction meetingsheld at the start of the year. It is highlyrecommended that you visit the Council’s website assoon as possible for information on practicalities aswell as reports from previous assistants:• www.britishcouncil.org/study-work-abroad/outside-uk/english-language-assistants

• Essential teaching advice, downloadablematerials and a web forum are available at:www.teachingenglish.org.uk

If you have not already done so, speak to assistantswho have come back from the year abroad. They willoften be very willing to pass on advice or helpfulinformation or just have a chat about the year.Questionnaires completed by previous assistantsare available in International Partnerships.

As soon as you are sent your school or localauthority’s contact details, contact them. The BritishCouncil website has advice on how to do this. Makesure that you are aware of, and arrive in time for, anyorientation meetings given by the local or nationalassistantship organisation. These meetings can benot only a helpful source of information, but also anopportunity to meet other assistants in your region.

Work placementsIf you are undertaking a work placement, you mustget approval from your Kent School and acontract/internship agreement signed by youremployer. If you do not already have a signedcontract, please contact the Erasmus Team urgently.

You should contact your employer for informationabout the work involved and documents you mayneed. Find out as much as you can about your job,the local area and the company you will be workingfor, before you go.

Make sure you know:• What is expected of you (eg tasks, responsibilities,confidentiality, behaviour and dress)

• What your hours of work will be and your holidayentitlement

• Will the company help you to findaccommodation?

• What salary are they offering you, if any, andwhen will it be paid?

• Will you be expected to pay taxes or socialsecurity payments?

• Will the company’s insurance cover you at work?

Contact the Careers and Employability Service andyour School’s Placement Officer for more advice.

Essential documentsIn the event of No Deal, you will be notified by theErasmus Team or the British Council (assistants), if it appears that work permits will be needed towork in the EU.

Work requirementsAll students are expected to fulfil the terms of theircontract and submit the work set by Kent. You willbe given details of any required academic work,usually an essay or project, by your School’sPlacement Officer.

Problems during the placementIf you have any difficulties or queries during the timeabroad which affect your ability to do your job, youmust speak to the staff member responsible for yourplacement at the school/company. The BritishCouncil’s website also gives advice on personalsafety and the recommended process for problemsolving.

If you do not feel able to speak the staff memberresponsible for your placement, try speaking toanother colleague who you trust. Alternatively,assistants can contact the local assistantship office.The Erasmus Team and your School’s PlacementOfficer are also available to offer advice andsupport.

In the case of prolonged illness, you should obtain amedical certificate from the doctor/hospitalconcerned (See also page 19). You should alsonotify the Erasmus Team and your academic co-ordinator or Placement Officer at Kent.


“My only advice would be to enjoyevery second because it goes by ina flash. Homesickness wassomething that I worried aboutbefore I arrived, but apart frommy first day here I have felt so athome and comfortable in Poitiers.Take every opportunity that comesyour way and try to visit as manyplaces as possible. As anassistant, you get the schoolholidays which is great! Make themost of the free time and travel.There will always be someonearound to help you if you areunsure of anything – don’t beafraid to ask! Have fun!”

Maria PerryFrench and HistoryBritish Council Assistant

https://www.britishcouncil.org/study-work-abroad/outside-uk/english-language-assistants

https://www.britishcouncil.org/study-work-abroad/outside-uk/english-language-assistants

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ATTENDING TWOPLACEMENTS

If you split the year between twoplacements, remember to keep track ofany preparation you need to do for thesecond placement during the firstsemester. If your first placement iscoming to an end and you have notheard from the second placement for awhile, please contact them directlyand let the Erasmus Team know if youhave any concerns.

If you will study at a (different) university in thesecond semester, make sure that you follow anyinstructions they give for pre-registration, arrival etc.

Many universities offer language courses ororientation programmes just before or during thesecond semester so make sure you take these intoconsideration when planning your arrival.

DocumentationDon’t forget to return all the necessarydocumentation to the Erasmus Team for bothplacements. The Departure and Arrival certificatesare particularly important but it is easy to forgetthem in the rush of moving between placements.Make sure that you let the Erasmus Team know yournew address as soon as possible after arrival.

Work requirementsMake sure that you know the work requirements foreach placement, particularly if you will split the yearbetween a university placement and a workplacement. The Work Requirements information willbe published on Moodle or given to you by yourSchool’s placement officer.

Term dates and examsAlthough every effort has been made to avoid aterm date clash in the case of two universityplacements, you may find that the start of yoursecond placement starts before the first placement’sexams have finished. If this is the case, find out ifyour tutors would be willing to set you an alternativeassessment or allow you to sit the exams earlier. Thisis unfortunately not guaranteed as it is dependenton the host university’s regulations and the goodwillof your tutors.

If it is not possible, you must then contact the secondsemester placement to find out if you can postponeyour arrival for a few days in order to complete yourexams. Notify your Academic Co-ordinator and theErasmus Team at Kent if neither option is viable.

Remember…Allow yourself time to adjust to the new placementbecause you may experience culture shock again!Ask local staff and students if you’re not sure whatto do and don’t hesitate to contact the ErasmusTeam if you have any concerns/problems.


“It’s a great opportunity anda lot of fun. The city is abeautiful place and the peopleare welcoming and slightlycrazy (but in a good, fun way).I highly recommend doing ayear abroad here!”

Charles HallBiomedical Science, Bogaziçi University

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PRE-DEPARTUREPROCEDURES

Make contactsDo get in touch with other students who are at/goingto the same destination as well as the incomingexchange students from there. The Erasmus Teamcan help you do this.

You can also get in touch on facebook:UniversityofKentGoAbroad.

Please feel free to contact the ErasmusTeam for advice and help with any ofthese procedures.

The team is a useful source of information and cangive more specific information on what is required bydifferent countries or partner universities.

Essential documentsMake sure you have the following documents:• Passport, valid for at least six months after theend of your time abroad. If you hold a UKpassport, the Government advice is that ‘youshould renew it now if, on the day you travel, yourpassport either: has less than six months left’or ‘is more than nine years and six months old’.

• Insurance (see page 18)• VisaThe host country's embassy or consulate canadvise on entry requirements as well as visaapplication processes and costs.

• Residence requirementsCheck with your host if you need to register withlocal authorities/police on arrival and whatdocuments are required, This might include yourpassport, proof of your financial support (eg aStudent Finance statement or letter from parents),an accommodation or employment contract,student ID.

• International Student Identity Card (ISIC)These cards can be extremely useful and canentitle you to discounts for travel and activities.Cards can be obtained from STA Travel. You willneed a passport photo and your Kent ID.

• Learning Agreement for study or workWe will send this to you by email with instructions.

• Arrival certificateWe will email this, and other documents, to youwith instructions.

• Passport photos• PhotocopiesTake copies of all the documents listed above aswell as the originals. Do not hand over theoriginals to anyone in case they get lost.

Information and formsWe have nominated all those undertaking a studyplacement to the appropriate partner university/ies.You should expect to hear from them aboutregistration and other matters by email in the nextcouple of months.

Assistants will receive instructions from the BritishCouncil, and possibly the local authority/school. It isreally important to contact your school as soon asyou receive the details. Those on work placementsshould check with their employer about forms thatmay be required in addition to the work placementcontract.

It is essential that you meet any deadlines given sothat you do not jeopardise your placement.

Your contact detailsPlease ensure that your home and emergencycontact details are correct on SDS before and duringyour time abroad.

www.kent.ac.uk/student


“So far it has been a unique andmind-opening experience as it hasallowed me to meet many peoplefrom all over Europe, which hasgiven me much insight intocultural differences. I have alsopartaken in activities I wouldusually not do such as visitingmuseums with friends andtravelling around the city takingin the sights and sounds whilstadapting to a new culture.”

Ryan Earnshaw European Studies with Spanish Universidad Carlos III Madrid

12

ACCOMMODATION

Study placementsSome universities provide accommodation and willsend information or links by email. Universitieswithout their own residences may offer help infinding private accommodation. Remember mostuniversities have limited accommodation andallocate rooms on a ‘First come, first served’ basis;it is therefore crucial to complete forms, signcontracts and pay deposits/administrative chargeson time.

Read the contract carefully before signing and followany residence regulations out of consideration forother residents.

Please note: Accommodation situations may varyfrom year to year. A university that could offeraccommodation in previous years may be unable todo so due to an unexpected problem. In thissituation, the Erasmus Team at Kent will endeavourto get university accommodation for thoseconcerned; however, students should be preparedto look for private accommodation.

Work placementsIf you are doing an assistantship or work placement,the onus is on you to find accommodation. It is agood idea to research the town where you will beworking and ask your school/employer for advice.Some students like to go out to the placement earlywith family so that they can visit possible rooms.

If you will be an assistant, it is worth attending anyintroductory briefing/training in your area as manystudents have found flat mates among the otherlocal assistants. Some have been offered temporaryaccommodation by a member of staff while theylooked for permanent accommodation.

Finding private accommodationContact the Erasmus Team of Kent and the localInternational Office, school or employer for advice.Some may be able to help more than others. Thestudent questionnaires are highly recommended:many offer advice on flat hunting techniques, goodsources of information and occasionally givea landlord’s address.

Important advice:• Find out about the safe/unsafe areas of the townbefore starting your search

• Avoid visiting flats/rooms on your own: take afriend as security and an extra pair of eyes tospot problem areas. If this is impossible, leave theaddress, your mobile number and expectedreturn time with a friend

• Be careful what personal details you give inadverts or to potential flatmates

• Arrange meetings in a public place• Be businesslike and confident• Find out who might have access to theaccommodation (landlord, landlord’s agent, etc)

• Read the contract carefully and if you have anyconcerns ask a native-speaker to check it on yourbehalf before signing.

ScamsUnfortunately, scams are increasingly frequent evenon social media sites for exchange students. Makesure that the properties advertised do exist beforeyou pay any money towards renting them.

Living in FranceA lot of French landlords require tenants to have aFrench guarantor.

All those resident in private accommodation inFrance will be required to pay the Taxe d’Habitation.Please be aware that you may not receive thepayment demand until your final year. You may beeligible for a rent rebate (the Aide au Logement)through the CAF (www.caf.fr).

When you have found accommodation• Make sure you know the dates of your lease• Check what is or isn’t included in your contract:utility bills, furnishings, wifi, cooking and laundryfacilities etc

• What will you need to take with you? Bedding,kettle...?

• What will you buy there? Find out where the localsuperstores are

• Do you need to get insurance before you move in?• Internet access may not be automatically offered.Check the student questionnaires for adviceabout getting it installed as this can take sometime.


“Very glad I decided to do anErasmus year! Having a greattime, and don’t really want itto end…”

Hannah SmithComparative Literature-FilmUniversité Paul Valéry Montpellier 3

13

TRAVEL

Safety when travellingThe following tips will help you to have a safe journey:• Always keep your passport, money and valuablessecure, but make sure that you can access thethings you will need during the journey easily

• Keep your luggage close to you at all times sothat it cannot be tampered with or stolen

• Act confidently and be aware of what ishappening around you

• Plan your journey in advance so you do not haveto refer frequently to a map/guidebook, whichcould mark you out as a stranger

• Make sure you know where to go and what to doon arrival (see Arrival section)

• If you have to travel at night on public transport,sit near the bus driver if you can or with otherpeople on the train

• Have some spare cash with you in case youneed/want to take a taxi to your accommodation.

If you are a UK national and/or will betravelling from the UK, make sure youare aware of any travel changesfollowing Brexit.

Allow plenty of time to clear passport control andcustoms, particularly if you will have a connectingjourney. Remember that UK nationals will gothrough separate border control lanes to EUnationals and may need to show a return ticketor funds for their stay.

See the Government website for details:www.gov.uk/visit-europe-brexit

OptionsThere are many options for cheap travel and studentdiscounts for tickets. Various companies offerbooking services for train or coach travel inmainland Europe, including for exampleEurorailways, The Trainline, Eurolines (part ofNational Express Coaches). STA Travel is a travelagent specialising in student travel, which has abranch in Canterbury.

Booking in advance is a good way to get cheapertickets, but be aware that the ticket may be valid fortravel at a specific time or have additional chargesfor cancellation or changes. Take this into account ifyou will have a connecting journey in case there areunexpected delays.

International Student Identity CardAn ISIC card provides some discounts itself,including at the time of writing the Gatwick Expressand Heathrow Express, but also is useful evidenceof your full-time student status for accessing studentbenefits abroad. You can apply for one online orthrough STA Travel.

DrivingIf someone will drive you to your placement, or youintend to drive during your time abroad, make sureyou are aware of the differing regulations andrequirements in your host country and any othercountries that you will drive through.

If you hold a UK driver’s licence, make sure you alsoobtain any new documentation which may berequired, for example and International DrivingPermit. See the Government website.

Your insurance company may provide advice abouttaking a car abroad.

Luggage Whether you plan to travel by air, train or coach, yourluggage will be limited either by baggageallowances or by how much you can carry.

Find out what is provided in your accommodationbefore you travel to avoid taking unnecessary items.If you will need to provide your own bedding orcooking equipment, consider whether you need totake things with you or can buy them on arrival.

If you will take a lot of things with you, ask a friend orfamily member to travel with you so that you can usetheir baggage allowance too. Alternatively, find out ifsomeone can post some items to you.

Remember to abide by the current hand luggageallowances and restrictions.

Travelling with others You may wish to consider travelling with other Kentstudents. Although you may be the only studentgoing to that area from your School, there may beother Kent students travelling there. The ErasmusTeam can help you contact them or even contactother UK universities to see if they also havestudents going to your destination.


“A year abroad gives youknowledge and language skillsyou simply can’t get in class, Iloved every second of my yearabroad and wish this wouldnever end!”

Carla BiondiAsian Studies and Hispanic StudiesTeach Argentina


ARRIVAL

At your accommodationFind out from your residence manager or landlordhow to get your key and when you can move in.Don’t arrive after office hours or during aweekend/local public holiday unless they say this ispossible. Have an alternative plan, eg the details ofa local hostel or hotel, in case your journey isdelayed.

At your university/placementIf the host has not already told you what to do orwhere to go on your first day at university/work,contact them for advice.

Make sure that you arrive in time for any inductionmeeting or orientation/welcome programme. Atuniversities, this will often include advice aboutregistration, modules and opening bank accountsas well as the chance to make friends.

For assistants, induction meetings may give adviceabout the work but also provide an opportunity tomeet other assistants, which can sometimes lead tofinding flatmates.

Please get your Arrival Certificate signed by the hostand return it to the Erasmus Team within two weeksof arrival. (The Erasmus Team will email a blankcertificate to you before the placement starts.)

In your areaIf you have to register with the local council or police,make an appointment or join the queue at therelevant office, taking all the required documents,plus photocopies, with you.

“As wonderful and amazing as ayear abroad is you have toremember that it is a massivechange. You don't have to bedoing things and feeling 100%amazing all the time. I found itquite like freshers again,everyone expects you to be doingfabulously all the time but that'snot always the case....So myadvice would be – don't rush!You have the whole year toexplore. And remember whatyou're doing is a big step in yourlife, it's ok to feeloverwhelmed...It is an amazingexperience and I've very glad Idid it.”

Alexandra FowlerBA in English and American LiteratureUniversity of Copenhagen


FINANCE

With careful preparation and budgeting, it is possible to pay for essentialexpenses and still enjoy nights out and weekends away.

Be prepared for initial expenses for travel andaccommodation, particularly if the academic yearwill start before your loan is due to be paid. In somecases, there may be a higher cost of living but otherexchange students are usually a good source ofinformation about the best supermarkets, cheapcinema tickets and rail/bus passes. The studentquestionnaires also give some very usefulinformation on these matters.

See also the costs and funding information at:www.kent.ac.uk/goabroad/cost.html

[The following information is correct at the time ofgoing to press.]

Erasmus+ GrantIf the UK continues within Erasmus+, the ErasmusTeam will provide the relevant documents andinformation by email. A information session will alsobe held in the summer term.

Swiss-European Mobility ProgrammeStudents at Swiss universities are normally eligiblefor the SEMP grant. This is paid through the Swissuniversity. They will advise you about therequirements and procedure. If there are anychanges in the event of a No Deal Brexit, theErasmus Team will notify you.

Tuition feesUndergraduate students pay a reduced tuition fee toKent if they spend a full year abroad. The fee isexpected to be 15% of the normal Home/EU rate fee(currently £1,385) for both Home/EU and Overseasrate fee-payers.

Undergraduate students pay the normal tuition feesto Kent if they spend one term abroad.

Postgraduate students pay the normal tuition fees toKent for a year or term abroad.

Tuition fees are not payable to any of the hostinstitutions.

German universities charge a small semester feewhich often provide benefits through studentdiscounts and public transport passes. There maybe similar small charges at other universities formembership of a student union, for study materialsor other items.

Student Finance EnglandIf you are eligible for funding through StudentFinance, notify them as soon as possible that youwill study or work abroad. This is particularlyimportant if you have recently changed from a 3year to 4 year degree programme.

Download your Study Abroad form from the StudentFinance website, and bring/send it to the ErasmusTeam for completion.

This should ensure that you get your funding at theright time. It may also be possible for studentswhose semester starts in August to receive thefunding a bit earlier but this is not guaranteed.

Failure to notify Student Finance could result in yourfunding being delayed or in Student Finance notarranging funding for your final year.

Travel grantsYou may be able to claim for some travel expensesthrough the Student Finance travel grant. You willneed to have submitted your Course Abroad formand to have evidence of the expenditure.Information is given on the Student Finance portal.

Emergency fundingIf your Student Finance funding is significantlydelayed or you need additional support after takingout your full entitlement, you may be eligible foremergency funding through Kent:www.kent.ac.uk/student/finance/emergency.html

Benefit entitlementsIf you receive benefits, including DSA, tell thedepartment responsible about your study/workabroad placement and check if it will affect yourpayments.

Cash and bank accounts abroad

Your bankInform your bank that you will be spending the nextacademic year abroad. Failing to do this could resultin your card being stopped: the bank might assumethat your card is being used fraudulently!

The bank will be able to advise you on managingyour finances. Exchange rate inequalities andbank/card fees (often surprisingly high) make itessential to manage your money in the mosteffective way possible. If using internet banking,make sure the necessary security precautions arein place.


Local banksWhether, and when, to open a bank account abroaddepends very much on individual circumstances.Check the student questionnaires forrecommendations but bear in mind that there maybe new regulations for UK nationals after Brexit.

Speak to students on arrival for advice on the most‘student-friendly’ banks. When opening an account,remember to take proof of identification and, ifapplicable, university registration. You may also berequired to pay some money in immediately.

Immediate costsYou will need a fair amount of easily available fundsduring the first few weeks of your stay, to pay at leastthe first month’s rent, plus a deposit, and for food andtravel expenses. However, it is never sensible to carrylarge amounts of cash.

MoneyIf you plan to use your debit/credit card abroad ormake transfers, find out what the charges will be.Make sure that your cards are widely accepted inyour host country.

Pre-paid travel currency cards can be used like adebit card but are not linked to your account sothere is less risk in case of loss or theft. Somecharge fees for cash withdrawals so shop around fora good deal.

EmploymentIf you are considering part-time work to supplementyour income, check that you have permission towork in that country and the hours allowed.

Remember your official placement is the priority sopart-time work must fit in around it. Universities oftenhave much longer hours in class than in the UK, sogive yourself time to settle in before committing to apart-time job.

Teaching English privately can be a good way toearn some money. If you are an assistant and areasked to do some private tutoring, check that yourschool is happy with this.

Safety when looking for employmentThe following points are aimed at helping you to finda suitable job safely:• Speak to friends or colleagues who may be ableto put you in touch with potential clients forlanguage tutoring

• If advertising, be very careful about the kind ofadvert you write: ask a native speaker to adviseyou on the wording and do not give your homeaddress

• Arrange to meet potential students/employers in a public place NOT your/their home

• Take someone with you or give the meetinglocation/time and contact’s name to a friend

• Dress smartly and behave in a businesslike way• Keep the conversation off personal/social topics• If you feel at all uncomfortable, excuse yourselfpolitely and leave.

The majority of people are genuine but there havebeen some problems reported. This is not meant toput you off: it is simply to say that it is important tobe vigilant.

“You meet so many people fromeverywhere and the views thatyou get on topics are so vast. It isnot difficult to lose yourself it thebeauty of the city... Comingabroad has opened my eyes in alot of ways and has made meenjoy my degree more than Ithought I ever could.”

Kashmeera Poona English & American Literature and Creative WritingCharles University Prague


INSURANCE

Insurance is an essential part of your preparation. It is always better to haveinsurance and not need it, than to not have it and get into difficulties!

Personal liability insuranceSome universities (particularly in France) requirestudents to take out personal liability insurance,sometimes offering a policy which can be taken outon arrival. In addition, some French residencesrequire students to take out a ‘multi-risques’ coverfor their room before they can move in. Check withthe host university if the Kent insurance policy isaccepted. If it isn’t, allow plenty of time to buy therequired insurance on arrival before you get yourkey. It is usually inexpensive.

Note for students on assistantshipsand work placementsAsk the British Council, local assistantship office oryour employer if you will be entitled to local socialsecurity and accident cover.

Please note different countries have differingregulations on insurance provision for workplacement trainees, and these should be checkedwell in advance of travel, to ensure that youunderstand and are satisfied with their arrangementsregarding accident and liability insurance while youare commuting, at work or travelling for the employer.

Health and risk assessmentsIt is most important that you read and comply withthe University’s Travelling and Working OverseasPerformance Standard. You will be asked to fill in theOverseas Travel health questionnaire by theErasmus Team.

Foreign and Commonwealth OfficeFinally, before embarking on any overseas journey,please read information available from the UKGovernment Foreign and Commonwealth Office –www.fco.gov.uk.

How do I register for insurance cover?Complete the online travel notification form on theabove website, no later than 10 working days beforeyou leave. Cover will start when you leave home totravel to your host university/placement and willremain in force for the period of your officialstudy/work placement.

It covers a wide range of benefits and providesextremely generous insured sums compared withother stand-alone travel insurance policies.

Information on claiming is given on theaforementioned website.

Incidental holidaysPlease note this insurance cover applies forincidental holidays taken within your host country.Cover can also apply for holidays taken away fromyour host country during vacation breaks, but youmust disclose these when first registering online forinsurance purposes or by confirming the holidaydestinations and travel dates by email to –[email protected] for cover to be agreed. If theperiod of holiday exceeds the overall officialstudy/work abroad period, you will have to arrangeseparate insurance for the extended holiday.

Evidence of coverWhen you submit travel notification form, pleasedownload the evidence of cover.

Retain printed and electronic copies of your coverinformation so you know exactly what to do in theevent of an emergency. A copy may also berequired by your host university or employer.

Illness and injuryIf you suffer from illness or injury while overseas, youmust contact Chubb immediately for help and advice:Assistance Helpline: +44 (0)207 173 7796E: [email protected]

Further guidance about what to do in an emergencyis available in the cover information document.

Important note about SpainIf you need treatment at a hospital or medicalcentre, make sure that you go, or are taken to, onewhich is public/state-run. Private hospitals havemuch higher charges than a public hospital.

European Health Insurance CardEligible students should obtain the European HealthInsurance Card (EHIC) or equivalent from their homecountry. In addition to providing cover for somemedical expenses it will almost certainly be a pre-requisite for university or police registration.

UK nationals are not expected to be eligible for theEHIC in the event of a No Deal Brexit.

If UK nationals are still eligible, the Erasmus teamwill email you information about applying for astudent EHIC.

What does the EHIC cover?The EHIC enables EU nationals to access state-provided treatment during your stay, often at areduced cost and sometimes for free. Bear in mindthat state provision and EHIC entitlements vary fromcountry to country. Private treatment is not covered:eg in some countries, this might include a journey byambulance.

Health insuranceUK nationals may wish to obtain health insurancebefore going abroad.

This may be obligatory in some countries, in whichcase students may be directed by the host universityor employer to buy a policy from specific localinsurers. There will be a (monthly) charge for this.

Any student who has a pre-existing health conditionor disability is recommended to take out healthinsurance, even if it is not required in the hostcountry, as this would provide more cover for routineappointments, treatment etc.

Kent’s travel and personal accidentinsuranceAll students who do an official study/work placementas part of their degree, are required to register forthe free travel and personal accident insurancewhich is arranged by the University of Kent with aleading travel insurer, currently Chubb Insurance:www.kent.ac.uk/finance-staff/services/insurance/travelstaff


HEALTH AND WELFARE

Health questionnairesYou will be asked by the Erasmus Team to fill in anOverseas Travel Health Questionnaire as part ofyour preparation. If you declare a healthcondition/disability, you may also have to get a‘Fitness to Travel’ certificate from the MedicalCertificate. This procedure is obligatory butcompletely confidential.

PrescriptionsMake sure that you have supplies of any necessaryprescription medicines before you leave. Check thatyour medicine is allowed in the host country:www.gov.uk/controlled-drugs-licences-fees-and-returns

It can also be useful to have a small first aid kit withthe basics (eg aspirin, plasters, antiseptic cream,antihistamines…) for the start of the year. You mayalso want to stock up on your favourite toiletries!

Medical FacilitiesIt is recommended that you register with a localdoctor during your time abroad, particularly if youwill be there for a year or have a pre-existingmedical or mental health condition.

In some countries, patients can go directly to ahospital for treatment by a specialist rather thanhaving to be referred by their GP. Some hostuniversities have their own medical centres or clinicsfor students’ use, which could simply be access to adoctor or nurse or cover a whole range of servicesincluding clinics and psychologists. Assistants andthose on work placements should contact theiremployer for advice about the local medical facilities.

Pre-existing conditionsIf you have a pre-existing health condition, it is veryimportant that you meet with your doctor, specialistor Student Support (www.kent.ac.uk/studentsupport/)to discuss your plans. This will help you to work outany practical, psychological or medical support youmight need there. Even if you do not currently needsupport or a prescription, it is worth discussing thisin case your circumstances change while you areabroad. Having a back-up plan will mean that ifsomething does happen, you will be prepared andit can be dealt with promptly.

Please notify the Erasmus Team as soon as possibleif you become ill or need assistance, so that we canadvise you appropriately and liaise with your hostuniversity/school/employer on your behalf (if this isnecessary). All information is kept confidential.

You may wish to get a letter from your GP confirmingdetails of your condition and current treatment incase you need further treatment or prescriptionswhile abroad. However, local doctors might decideto run their own tests before prescribing medicationor treatment.

Disability support abroadAlthough most host universities will have a disabilitysupport service, they may not offer exactly the samefacilities or support that Kent offers. Many servicesare focused primarily on assisting students whohave mobility, vision or hearing impairments, forexample with accessible rooms, note-takers, etc.

‘Unseen’ disabilities and conditions like dyslexia orautism are not always recognised abroad or coveredby these services. In some cases, this is becauselocal students get support through their own doctorsor social services.

Awareness and support is growing, but it isimportant that students contact the Erasmus Teamand Student Support early so that we can find outwhat support you need and what is offered at yourplacement.

Home sickness and the difficulty making yourselfunderstood, or understanding others, can makesmall difficulties seem much worse! Many studentsfeel anxious, lonely or stressed in their first few daysor weeks.

Fortunately, these feelings do not usually persist, andthe long term results are often closer friendships withother students and an improved sense of your owncapabilities. Past experience suggests that with timeand a positive attitude the adventure just gets better.Most students are sad to leave.

Dealing with stress – Don’t suffer insilenceIf you do find you are suffering from culture shock,anxiety or home sickness, talk to someone about it;you may well find that other students have similarfeelings and you can help each other get through it.Remember to keep in contact with friends and familyat home but don’t spend too much time doing thisbecause it can make home sickness worse.

Don’t forget…• Allow yourself time to settle in• Make sure you eat and sleep well• Get to know other students• Take time to do things you enjoy• Keep yourself busy

Don’t hesitate to contact the Erasmus Team at Kent.We are here to help and can empathise with theanxieties and problems faced having all studied orworked abroad ourselves! In addition to our Team,you can also get help from the local InternationalRelations Office, your employer or a teacher at yourschool, or the local assistantship office.

Counselling supportKent’s Student Wellbeing team(www.kent.ac.uk/studentwellbeing/) is also availableto you while you are abroad if you feel you wouldbenefit from this. They are happy to arrange free,confidential appointments by phone for Kentstudents who are abroad. You must be registeredwith a doctor in your host town to access this service.

“Don’t put pressure on yourself.Be free. It is the most incredibleexperience, embrace it. Embracethe differences between you andyour new international friends.It’s OK to be homesick but try andget as stuck in as possible. Havefun.”

Elizabeth AsherGerman and Business AdministrationUniversity of Freiburg

The period after arrival abroad can be disorientating as you adjust to adifferent culture.


PERSONAL SAFETY

The following information is aimed athelping you to make the most of yourtime abroad!

Many issues can be avoided simply by raising yourawareness of the world around you and using yourcommon sense.

In your communityBe aware of local norms of behaviour and clothing:what is acceptable in the UK may give the wrongimpression in other countries. Blending in with localyoung people can help you to avoid attractingunwanted attention or causing offence. Goodguidebooks may give some useful informationabout this.

It may sound cynical and unfriendly but don’t takestrangers at face value: be cautious aboutaccepting/offering invitations, lifts or unsolicitedoffers of help. Remember that some countrieshave more strict/formal social norms than the UK;for example, in some areas, inviting someone youhave just met to your accommodation can give thewrong signals.

Young people in mainland Europe go out to enjoythemselves and have a few drinks, but do not ingeneral drink in order to get drunk. If you becomeunwell on a night out, go home with a friend, ifpossible, or book a reputable taxi. Don’t accept a liftfrom someone you have just met. If a friend becomesincapacitated, help them to get home safely.

It is best to avoid areas where protests ordemonstrations are taking place.

Getting aroundBe aware that places or routes which are ok duringthe day may be less safe at night. Avoid poorly-lit,deserted or isolated areas or short-cuts. If you’regoing to a new place, try to arrive during the daytime. When out late, try to avoid travelling alone andmake sure you have a plan B for getting home just incase, eg details of a reputable taxi firm. If you thinkyou are being followed, go to a populated placewhere you can get help, so the person does not findout where you live.

See also the safety notes on pages 12 and 13.

AttitudesYou may come across attitudes to gender, race,ethics, religion or other issues which are differentto those common in the UK, or might even beunacceptable here. Some countries are very liberal intheir prevailing views, others are much moreconservative, and this can sometimes lead todiscomfort.

Keep your bank’s emergency numbers, a note ofyour card numbers (not your PIN!) and photocopiesof your insurance documents in safe places. Keepthem separate from your purse/wallet in case of lossor theft.

In the event of crime or loss…Report the loss/theft of any personalbelongings/documents to the police immediatelyand get a police report. Notify your bank at once ifyour credit/bank cards are stolen or lost so that theycan be stopped and replaced. If your passport ornational ID card is stolen or lost, the police will writeout a temporary form, and you should then obtain anemergency passport/ID at the nearest BritishConsulate or the Embassy/consulate of your homecountry. Please also contact the Insurance Office ifyou need to make a claim (see page 18).

If you find yourself without your passport, any accessto cash, or in any other serious trouble, the Consulatewill try to help.

Bear in mind that something which gives offencemay be due to a cultural misunderstanding ratherthan being intended to hurt or demean. This canalso work the other way because it is easy to beinadvertently rude when you are still learninganother culture’s norms, particularly in countrieswhich are more formal than the UK. Personalitydifferences can also be a factor: one person’s poorattitude may be due to their own bad manners,personal history or lack of empathy, instead of beinga reflection on the wider community.

If however, you find that you are significantlyaffected by such an issue, please notify the ErasmusTeam. We expect you to receive fair and equaltreatment at your host university or place of workand for you to extend the same treatment to others.

Avoiding theftBe on your guard and follow the same precautionsas you would at home. Hold on tightly to your bagor sling it securely across your shoulder or in frontof you, especially in a crowd. Keep your documents,phone and money on your person, rather than in abag, which could be easily snatched. Only take out large sums of money when absolutelynecessary. Lock your room securely when you leaveit. If you do get into difficulties, remember that yoursafety is more important that any possessions.


KEEPING IN TOUCH

Once abroad, please keep in contactwith us. We like to hear from you –don’t wait for a problem before youget in touch! If you come to theUniversity during the year, pleasevisit the Erasmus Team and tell ushow you are getting on.

We do our best to keep in touch and contact youabout specific matters (most frequently by groupemail), but unless you contact us we assume that allis well. If you have not heard from us for a while andare concerned, please do not hesitate to contact us.You will find our contact details at the beginning ofthis guide.

Contact detailsPlease ensure that your home, term-time andemergency contact details are correct on SDS.You should list your contact details for your timeabroad in the term-time section. Update your detailsif you move or change your phone number or emailaddress.

This is very important because we and otherUniversity offices will need to contact you during yourtime abroad.

Using emailPlease let us know if it is difficult for you to accessemail at least once a week. If you want us to contactyou additionally at another email address let usknow.

You can access your Kent email from abroadthrough the University’s web mail service or you canhave your emails forwarded to another inbox. Thiscan only be done on a PC at Kent. Contact theStudent Helpdesk if you need assistance (seedetails below).

• T: + 44 (0)1227 824999• E: [email protected]• www.kent.ac.uk/itservices

Important note:If your inbox goes over quota, this will prevent youfrom receiving or sending emails. If you haveproblems with your Kent email address, contact theStudent helpdesk for assistance.

PhonesIt is often worthwhile getting a local SIM card forinternet and cheaper local phone calls.

Check with your provider regarding data roamingcharges whilst abroad.

Social MediaGet in touch with other students through the StudyAbroad Facebook page:UniversityofKentStudyAbroad.

Be very cautious about giving away personalinformation online – or to a stranger, unless they are inan official capacity.

While Facebook and Skype are great ways to keep intouch with home, please be wary of using them toomuch. Focusing on what is happening at home canmake home sickness worse and make it much harderto make friends in the new place.

The internetYou may find that access to PCs and/or the Internetis more limited at your host university than at Kent.There are often fewer PCs per student which canlead to queues and time limits for use. Students maynot be expected to use IT as much as at Kent.

Some students recommend buying a dongle toimprove internet access.

Staff visitsKent staff visit some destinations each year to meetstudents and monitor progress. If someone will visityour city or a place near you, we or the academicwill contact you about arrangements. If a visit is notpossible, staff can still be contacted by email orphone and can often arrange skype conversations.

“You get as much out of theexperience as you’re willing toput in... Be organised,responsible and proactive; it isthe best way to be prepared evenin unexpected situations.

The best way to meet people isjust to smile, be honest andintroduce yourself.”

Melodie TurnerHispanic Studies, British Council Assistant


PROBLEM SOLVINGAND EMERGENCIES

Basic advice• Read all the information sent to you by Kent andthe host university/British Council/employer andrefer to it during the year

• If you are unable to access the internet, let theErasmus Team know as soon as possible so thatimportant messages can be sent to you by post

• If you are not receiving information from Kent oryour host university that other students havereceived, contact the Erasmus Team.

Problems during the yearSpeak to your contacts at the host in the firstinstance if you have administrative or academicproblems. This could be the host university’sInternational Office and Academic Co-ordinator, thementor at your school or your supervisor at yourwork placement. This is particularly important if youhave problems with courses and exams. In the caseof unexpected absences (eg due to illness orbereavement), make sure you notify your tutors orfollow your school/employer’s procedures.

If you have a serious problem which the host cannothelp with (or you feel unable to speak to the hostyourself for some reason), please contact theErasmus Team as soon as possible.

In the event of a serious medical problem, pleasecontact the Chubb emergency medical helpline (seepage 18) and notify the Erasmus Team. Make surethat you obtain a doctor’s note. This may be neededfor an insurance claim, your employer’s sicknessabsence policy or for a concession application atKent. The Erasmus Team will provide advice andsupport, as appropriate.

Important noteIt is important to speak to the Erasmus Team andyour mentor, supervisor, or exchange co-ordinator asearly as possible about any problems. Manyproblems can be sorted out quickly once you havetalked to staff.

EmergenciesIn the event of a natural disaster, terrorist attack orother major incident, please follow the advice of thelocal authorities to keep yourself safe.

British Consulates provide advice and support forBritish nationals experiencing serious problemsoverseas, for example emergency passports, helpcontacting family/friends if you need emergencyfunding, advice about local legal/medical support. Ifyou are arrested for a serious offence, you shouldinsist on the Consulate being informed. A consularofficer will contact you to advise about localprocedures and help notify relevant parties whocould help you, but he/she will not bail you out oftrouble!

Please make sure that you inform your family andfriends that you are safe. The Erasmus Team willcontact you to make sure you are ok and to offersupport. We will monitor the situation, liaising withthe Insurance Office, the University authorities andpartner universities, and will advise you asappropriate.

The Wellbeing Team at Kent will also be available tooffer counselling support if you are registered with adoctor in the host country.

If you have been directly affected, you can contactyour home country’s embassy or consulate in thecountry for help and advice.

Consulates and EmbassiesYou can find details of British embassies andconsulates overseas at:www.gov.uk/government/world

If you are not a UK national, you should contact theembassy/consulate of your home country.

“Although I am less thanhalfway through my yearabroad, I would undoubtedly saythat it has been one of the bestexperiences of my life. It isn’tsomething that is always easybut I have no doubt that I havematured and become more self-sufficient than ever before.”

Victoria-Anne BulleyBA in Drama and English and American LiteratureUniversity of Porto


RETURNING TO KENT

Final year accommodationIf you will be away for the full academic year, youcan find private accommodation through:

www.studenttenant.com/kent

www.homestampkent.co.uk/Accommodation(Canterbury)

The off-campus housing pages give a lot of usefulinformation at: www.kent.ac.uk/accommodation

If you have medical or disability needs, you canapply for campus accommodation in the usual way.

If you are a Canterbury student and you will spend aterm abroad, you will be able to apply for campusaccommodation in mid-November.

Module registrationModule Registration for your final year will be onlinefrom March. It is very important that you register your module choices within Kent’s deadline.

RegistrationStudents returning to Kent after their time abroad willbe expected to register online. Check the StudentGuide for details.

Transcripts and year abroad essaysDon’t forget to complete any end of year/semesterprocedures at your host university, for examplehanding in your Libretto or Scheine to theInternational Relations office. You should bring theoriginal transcript to the Erasmus Team when youreturn to Kent. If you are expected to doa project/essay, submit completed work to yourSchool via Moodle by the deadline.

Culture shockMany students find the transition back to being athome can bring on culture shock. Having got usedto the culture of your host country, there’s a newtime of adjustment. This can be unsettling and likean anti-climax, as you are expected to slot straightback into your UK life. Just remember to giveyourself time to adjust again.

“Erasmus has encouraged me tolearn for myself and not for agrade which is a teaching I shallkeep with me for life. I haveengaged much more with mycourse at Kent since returningfrom Prague.”

Roxana WillisEuropean Legal Studies, Charles University Prague


EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS

Whatever your degree subject, it will be enriched by the experience of living,studying and/or working in another country. It will develop your languageabilities and cultural awareness as well as more general skills, like adaptabilityand initiative, which employers look for.

Skills development It is important to consider these things before yougo abroad, so that you are able to get the best fromit and can see your personal/skills developmentmore clearly.

Study and work abroad can be intense, so it is oftendifficult to see changes in language or other skillsday to day. Keeping a blog or journal to record youractivities and then taking time out to review themcan help you to see progress more clearly. It willalso come in useful when you prepare your CV andjob applications.

The following questions may help you to do this:• How is my time abroad helping me tocommunicate more effectively with others?

• How is it developing my transferable skills andattributes?

• Am I working on some skills more than others?• What am I learning about my own culture andview of the world, and those of the host countryor other students?

• What have I learnt through dealing withchallenges or difficulties?

Career planning If you don’t yet know what you want to do or want tofind out more about graduate opportunities in theUK or abroad, now is the time to do this. TheCareers and Employability Service (CES) at KeynesCollege offers appointments with Careers advisersand has information about working abroad, careerchoices and preparing C.V.s and job applications.

This is good starting point if you would like to returnto your host country for work or postgraduate study.The CES can help you prepare so that you can makethe most of your time abroad, carrying out careersresearch and making contacts.

The CES website (www.kent.ac.uk/ces) and theProspects website (www.prospects.ac.uk) haveuseful information about all these things.

“This is a fantastic way toimprove your language skills andto discover more about workexperience placements and jobopportunities in future.”

Marina IvanovaEuropean Economics, Université de Grenoble 2

Transferable skills

Communication (oral, written)Planning and organisationDecision makingTeam workingEnterprise/initiativeNegotiation and persuasionProblem solving and analysisReflection

Attributes

IntegrityAdaptability ReliabilitySelf-motivation and perseveranceResourcefulnessMaturity and confidenceResilience Cultural awareness Self-awareness and capacity to develop

Please note the following points before you leaveKent:• UK employers need staff who have language

skills and international experience. [Source:British Chamber of Commerce]

• Early preparation is vital. Now is the time to startthinking about what you want to do after yougraduate – not the beginning of your very busyfinal year. Many popular employers will haveclosing dates during the autumn term: some(such as solicitors’ firms) even before the start ofyour final year. Don’t miss the boat!

A great opportunity to enhance yourskillsIn the course of your degree, you will have manyopportunities to develop skills and attributes prizedby employers, through your studies andextracurricular activities, such as volunteering.Studying and working abroad enriches this,particularly in areas such as intercultural awareness,communication and perseverance.


REGULATIONS

Please ensure that you are familiarwith the following regulations.

In order to complete the year satisfactorily, you must:

1 Be aware of and comply with the regulationsregarding marks.

2 Be resident in the approved place for therequisite period, as agreed with Kent and thehost university, school or employer. Obviouslyshort visits home are permissible. If a majorpersonal difficulty seems to require a longerabsence you must get in touch with the ErasmusTeam and, if possible, receive confirmation ofapproval before acting.

3 Satisfy any requirements that go with yourplacement. Follow university courses seriouslyand take all exams wherever possible.Assistants and students on work placements areexpected to carry out their dutiesconscientiously and to comply with allinstructions given by the authorities in theirschool or their employer.

4 Conduct yourself, whether in a University, schoolor work placement, in a manner consistent withthe norms of your Host University, school oremployer and in a manner that will reflectcreditably on the University of Kent.

5 Promptly notify the Erasmus Team of any seriousproblems during the time abroad, whetheracademic or otherwise, which are affecting ormay affect your studies/work.

6 Do not leave behind any debts or other liabilities.

10 If dividing the year between two placements,transfer promptly to your second institution orwork place.

11 Submit any work required of you by Kent by thedue date.

12 Obtain a copy of the Transcript of yourExamination marks from your Host Universityand pass it on to the Erasmus Team on yourreturn to Kent or submit any required work withinthe deadline.

7 Where applicable meet the member of stafffrom the University of Kent who may visit youduring the course of the year.

8 Keep the Erasmus Team informed of youraddress and complete and return the forms sentto you.

9 Provide information on your placement for futurestudents by means of a questionnaire sent bythe Erasmus Team.

“My experience in Spain wascompletely unprecedented. Inevery aspect a person can grow,I have grown. And that's whyI recommend everyone to put allof their worries aside and just doit. You will be thankful and, likeme, you will return home witha whole bank of irreplaceablememories.”

Georgia Williams Hispanic StudiesBritish Council Assistantship

The RegistryUniversity of KentCanterburyKent CT2 7NZ, UKT: + 44 (0)1227 827818 or 824042E: [email protected]

Student enquiry hours:Monday-Friday10.00-12.00 and 14.00-16.00


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