The International Relations and Mobility Office (IRMO) is organising their annual Go Abroad Fair for VUB students and staff set to take place on 18 October (Jette) and 19 October (Etterbeek). The Fair aims to help inform students about the different exchange programmes and show them the advantages of Going Abroad. Ultimately, the idea that one can achieve anything in life is largely enhanced by the opportunities they get – to be immersed in a new, unfamiliar setting is a challenge that can bring great rewards, both personally and professionally. IRMO and VUB academics have vouched for the benefits of travel and studying abroad, advising that it not only broadens your horizons on a personal level but it enhances future employment prospects.
Wim Gabriëls (IRMO) offers an overview of what the Go Abroad Fair is all about:
‘’The Go Abroad Fair presents all possibilities for students to Go Abroad during or outside of their studies. During the Go Abroad Fair students can find more information on the possibilities they have to study abroad, can attend sessions where the different programmes are presented and talk to the coordinators that assist the different programmes together with students that have taken part in this programme in the past. The Go Abroad Fair will take place on 18 October between 11h00 & 14h00 at the Brussels Health Campus and on 19 October between 10h00 and 16h00 at the Brussels Engineering, Sciences & Humanities Campus.’’
Who can apply to go abroad?
“All VUB students, Belgian and international, can go abroad during their studies one way or another. This includes students experiencing financial difficulties. The Social Services for Students are there to lend a helping hand to those wishing to fulfil their dreams of studying abroad. This is in addition to the well-known Erasmus Mundus scholarship programmes. More information can be obtained at the Going Abroad Fair."
What can they expect to gain from the experience?
‘’Students can gain a number of things from going abroad. It is the perfect opportunity for them to explore a different part of the world, discover their field of study from a different perspective, improve their intercultural communication skills and make friends all over the world.’’
More information on the Going Abroad Fair can be found through IRMO and MY.VUB.