Erasmus Generation in Action - Focus Group

20 ESN volunteers discussed about international mobilitie opportunities such as Erasmus+ and EU rights and freedoms for their citizens.

The main outcomes of this activity were as follows:

1. Motivations for Going on Mobility: Participants expressed various reasons for pursuing international mobility, including cultural exploration, embracing diversity, learning new languages, challenging stereotypes, and experiencing personal freedom.
2. Considerations for Decision-Making: When deciding to go abroad, participants emphasized the importance of considering financial aspects, language factors, and the cultural aspects of the destination country.
3. Awareness of Erasmus+ and Other EU Programs: While Erasmus+ was well-known among the participants, not everyone was familiar with the other programs offered by the European Union.
4. Knowledge of Rights and Freedoms: Participants demonstrated awareness of certain rights and freedoms as European citizens, such as freedom of movement, the use of a single currency, and the right to vote in European elections.
5. Barriers to Participation: Financial constraints and a lack of information were identified as the primary barriers to accessing international opportunities.
6. Benefits of International Opportunities: The identified benefits included academic enrichment, personal and professional growth, development of intercultural competences, and language acquisition.
7. Role of International Opportunities in the European Union: Participants recognized that international opportunities like Erasmus contribute to fostering a broader vision of Europe, providing firsthand understanding of challenges faced by other European countries, facilitating personal growth, and establishing meaningful cross-cultural friendships. Additionally, such programs highlight the privileges and advantages of one's own national identity.

These outcomes reflect the discussions and insights gathered from the focus group, shedding light on the perspectives and experiences of the participants regarding mobility and its impact within the European Union.