We explore the top five myths and misconceptions around going abroad, and explain why there’s nothing stopping you from gaining international experiences!
Going abroad is too expensive
There is funding available from Erasmus+ and Santander Universities of up to £1500 to support study, volunteer and work abroad opportunities, as well as additional funding for widening participation students and students with disabilities. You will also still continue to receive your student loan while abroad.
Lauren Haley, a BA Anthropology student, said, “As a student from a low-income background with the stresses of rent to pay during summer break I would not have been able ‘Go International’, particularly as an unpaid volunteer, without this bursary.”
Going abroad takes too much time
We can fund opportunities to go abroad from as little as one week. In the past, we’ve funded students to participate in short-term opportunities such as conferences and language courses abroad. This is a great option if you have commitments that would stop you from going abroad for a longer period of time.
Jheng-Hao Lin, a BSc Computer Science student, said, “I had a great week in Berlin. Thanks to the sponsorship from Santander, I was able to fly to this beautiful city and meet so much interesting people during these few days. These experience definitely contributes to my resume and portfolio.”
The application process is complicated
The application process can seem daunting, but we are here to help! We have weekly drop-ins in the SPACE (RHB 180-181) every Wednesday from 9:30 to 12:30pm where we can talk you through the application process and answer any questions you may have. You can also make an appointment with us outside of this time by emailing goabroad@gold.ac.uk.
If you’re having difficulties finding a work or volunteer placement, we have guidance on the website here. We also have a list of summer schools here.
It’s difficult to adjust to a different culture
There is support available for learning a language for your time abroad, and our pre-departure guidance will prepare you for adjusting to another culture.
Going abroad is a great opportunity to develop intercultural awareness and communication skills that look great on your CV.
Alba Sirvent-Gonzalez, a BSc Psychology student, said, “This work placement has given me the opportunity to immerse myself in a completely different culture. I was required to adopt a Sri Lankan appropriate dress code and behaviour, not only at projects, but also at the homestays in which we lived with a Sri Lankan family. I gained invaluable cultural awareness.”
I can’t go abroad after Brexit
Despite the uncertainty regarding the UK’s departure from the EU we are still continuing to promote opportunities to study and work abroad. If the UK and the EU agree a deal, then there will be a transition period and students will still be able to participate in the Erasmus programme and study and work in the EU on the current terms and conditions.
If we leave the EU without a deal things are slightly more uncertain. The Goldsmiths Global Opportunities team are continuing to monitor the situation and provide updates as soon as possible. We still have funding available to support students and are continuing to promote Go Abroad opportunities over the summer holidays and into the 2019/20 academic year. Check out our webpage for the forthcoming deadlines.
If there are any changes to the situation we will update applicants as soon as we know and well in advance of their placements. For the latest information, please see our Brexit statement, and the UK government Technical Notice.
Applicants will also need to be aware of any changes to immigration requirements relating to their overseas placement as a result of Brexit. Please consult the FCO guidance and the Government passport guidance.