Erasmus Mundus Programme – European Union Invites Australian Students to Study in Europe
The European Union is dedicated to advancing education and offers a variety of scholarships to both EU and non-EU citizens, promoting global cooperation in academia and research. One of these initiatives, Erasmus Mundus programme, turns 20 this year! For this occasion, we would like to inspire Australian students and young graduates with the story of Marco Lupoli, Erasmus Mundus representative from Australia, who shares his insights and first-hand experience within this unique programme.
What inspired you to apply for the EU scholarship Erasmus Mundus to study in Europe?
Marco: I wanted to gain a global experience and to connect with colleagues from all over the world through an international academic programme. A scholarship to study in some of the highest ranked universities in Europe represented a unique opportunity to do it and I am very grateful for it.
What surprised you at European universities?
I studied in some of the oldest academic institutions in Europe where the exchange with lecturers and academic staff is slightly more formal compared to Australia. Unlike Australia, academic education is accessible and affordable in Europe. All the European universities where I studied are connected through international academic networks that can provide students and staff with several opportunities of training, academic mobility and professional development.
What were the main advantages of studying in Europe under Erasmus Mundus Programme?
The possibility to travel around, to learn new languages, to make new friends and to observe how different governments and academic institutions tackle the complexity of global social issues. Erasmus Mundus allowed me to be part of solid international professional networks that I would have not been able to access to from Australia.
What were the main challenges as an international student in Europe?
I have lived in four countries over the last 18 months. Moving around is a fun adventure but it can be challenging. Most of the challenges are linked to different bureaucratic systems across European countries (residence permits, healthcare, housing, etc); however, the support received from my host universities and from my international colleagues ensured that everything went smooth.
In what ways do you believe this scholarship opportunity [Erasmus Mundus] will shape your future career aspirations and personal growth?
It is an incredible experience at both personal and professional level. I have learnt so much about myself and about what I want from my professional future. I feel much more confident in exploring international opportunities and have gained incredible knowledge, social capital and global citizenship because of Erasmus Mundus.
What advice would you give to other Australian students who aspire to pursue similar opportunities to study abroad in Europe?
I would highly recommend to apply for an Erasmus Mundus scholarship. The first step is to consult the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue, available on the European Commission website. Erasmus Mundus has no age limit and there are opportunities in all disciplines. I created a Facebook Group called Erasmus Mundus Association (EMA) Australia, where alumni and candidates can exchange advice and experiences. It is a life changing opportunity, do not miss it!
About Marco, Erasmus Mundus Country Representative for Australia:
I completed my social work training at Western Sydney University and I am currently an Erasmus Mundus Scholar enrolled in ADVANCES, an international master program on advanced development in social work. I am travelling for two years with a group of 28 international social workers from 26 different countries across a consortium of five European universities: Lincoln University (UK), Aalborg University (Denmark), Lisbon University (Portugal), Paris Nanterre University (France) and Warsaw University (Poland).
I am currently based in Paris, from where I am supporting the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) as Community Education Curriculum Development mentor, while also volunteering with the Erasmus Mundus Association as country representative for Australia.
