The Erasmus Mundus Association (EMA) organised a pre-departure orientation event for the new cohort of the Environmental Contamination and Toxicology (ECT+) programme. The online session took place on 27th July and aimed at easing the transition for new students.
This significant event was organised by EMA's Programme Representative for ECT+ Luis Mauricio Galvez Ortiz and Adaleta Omerbasic, the Country Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The event also featured Nikshan Paudel, Director of the Students & Alumni (S&A) Unit, who provided an insightful presentation on the Erasmus Mundus Association, highlighting its vital role in connecting Erasmus Mundus students and alumni.
The orientation saw active participation from the Students and Alumni Board (SAB) of the ECT+ programme, who joined the initiative to address questions from the incoming cohort. The new ECT+ cohort comprises students from diverse countries including Brazil, Australia, Spain, Argentina, and Peru. The event provided a platform for these students to gain essential information about joining the ECT+ community, and the EMA, and becoming active members of both. It also covered a comprehensive range of topics crucial for the new students.
It began with a warm welcome from Adaleta Omerbasic, coordinator of the ECT+ Students and Alumni Board. Adaleta then introduced Luis Mauricio Galvez Ortiz, who shared his experiences and activities within the Erasmus Mundus community. Mauricio welcomed the new students and invited them to connect with other students and alumni through various online groups and platforms. Following Mauricio’s introduction, Nikshan Paudel took the stage to present the Erasmus Mundus Association. He provided an overview of EMA’s membership statistics and ongoing projects, portraying EMA as an essential first step for students to familiarise themselves with the Erasmus Mundus world. Nikshan’s presentation highlighted the importance of EMA as a support network and resource hub for Erasmus Mundus students and alumni. Adaleta proceeded to present the Students and Alumni Board within the ECT+ programme, explaining the various roles and activities available. She encouraged the new students to join the board and become active members of the ECT+ community, emphasising the value of their involvement in shaping the programme's future.
The event then moved to a crucial segment led by Winny S., a member of the SAB. Winny provided detailed information about the first semester at the Université de Pau et des Pays de l'Adour (UPPA) in France. Her presentation covered practical aspects such as arrival procedures, life in France, administrative requirements, visa processes, and financial management. Winny's tips and insights were invaluable for the new students preparing for their move to France.
The orientation concluded with an interactive Q&A session. During this session, new students had the opportunity to ask direct questions about their upcoming experiences. Alumni and current students shared their firsthand experiences, offering tips and answering queries about academic and social life within the Erasmus Mundus framework.
The event underscored the collaborative spirit of the Erasmus Mundus community,
This session promoted a sense of community, providing new students with a support network before their journey even began. This pre-departure orientation marked an important milestone for the new ECT+ cohort, offering them a head start in their Erasmus Mundus journey. It not only facilitated connections between new students, alumni, EMA members, and current students but also equipped them with essential knowledge and resources for their academic and personal success. The event underscored the collaborative spirit of the Erasmus Mundus community, setting a positive tone for the new students as they embark on their educational adventures.
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