Socrates/Erasmus student

Age: 34

Originally from:
British Columbia, Canada.

Now living:
Aberystwyth, Ceredigion.

College or University:
University of Wales, Aberystwyth studying Law with French with the aim of becoming an international lawyer .Under the European Union’s Erasmus scheme, I spent a year between 1999-2000 studying Law in French at Universite Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium

Why:
I wanted to improve my French and learn about the law in another country. Belgium seemed like a good choice as it’s the HQ of the European Union. Economically it also made sense, since it was substantially cheaper, than spending another year in the UK… and to be honest, the coffee was much better over there than here!

How:
It wasn’t difficult. The university here was very well organised, along with the university over there. Organisation was largely done by these institutions. I did have to find accommodation, but I would have had to have done this anyway.

Experiences:
I met people from many European countries and gained an insight into their likes and dislikes. The college’s staff were very professional and helped to stimulate my curiosity.

Best of times:
Being able to sprawl out in the warm May sunshine, under the apple blossoms in the company of some friends.

Worst of times:
When I stood up in front of an audience of 400 Belgians and a panel of eminent jurists during the Belgian National International Humanitarian Law Mooting Competition, to deliver my team's opening remarks in a simulated War Crimes Tribunal. To stand up and say something in my second language... well, you get the picture! Also, I went for a haircut, but what we call No. 1 or No. 2 had very different names in Belgium. I asked for a tondeuse, which I thought to be a simple trim. Needless to say it was a full brush cut. It was a remarkably chilly January!

Advice:
I would recommend Erasmus. Speaking a language is one thing, but being able to function daily in it is another. You’ll find living abroad may teach you about another way of life but, more importantly, it forces you to come to terms with your own.