Erasmus celebrates its 25th anniversary

"Students return more positive, more confident and more independent"

Over the past 12 years, Maria Hadjimatheou had heard stories from students about their time on the Erasmus programme. Working in the University of Cyprus’ Erasmus Office, she had only seen other universities through the internet. When the opportunity came to apply for an Erasmus training visit she was accepted and travelled abroad for the first time. Her time in Vienna was ‘unique and unforgettable. It was a chance to get the same sort of experience that the students described.’ Her experience has helped her to empathise more with the students. ‘Worrying about being away from my family, feeling strange, feeling insecure, phoning home to say I had arrived – all the things that the students talk about.’

As so many students from the University of Cyprus live at home while they study, she realised what a huge change it was for them to live by themselves and organise their own finances. Having seen this for herself, it gave her a much better insight into the students’ situation. It also explained why so many students returned to Cyprus ‘more positive, more confident and more independent.’

Back at the University of Cyprus, she has used the knowledge acquired through her training visit to help students use the Erasmus online enrollment systems and provide a better service to the university. ‘I have also encouraged other staff to take part in Erasmus training as it is a unique and unforgettable experience.’

 

Home institution:

University of Cyprus, Cyprus (Πανεπιστήμιο Κύπρου, Κύπρος)

Field of study/job title:

Administrative Assistant in the Life Long Learning International Programmes Office, Research and International Relations Service

Year became active in Erasmus

1999