The international commission seeks to stay in touch with its exchange students, and after their return, it selects some for an interview to learn about their international journey and report on their learning experience.
The student interviewed for this edition participated in the AUI (UFPR International Agency | AUI) International Mobility program.
The interviewed student, Lucas Sigoli, a Production Engineering student at UFPR, completed an exchange program at the Universität Passau in Germany in April 2023.
Lucas enrolled at the university in 2019 and since then had the goal of participating in some of the mobility programs offered by UFPR. In 2023, he had the opportunity to complete his academic mobility through the international academic mobility program, staying in the city of Passau for 11 months.
“A unique opportunity, to be able to see and experience the world from another perspective,” were the student’s words when asked about his months abroad. During his exchange experience, he faced some difficulties, such as moments of loneliness, and also says that forming bonds was challenging due to the cultural and language barriers.
Despite the challenges, Lucas highlighted several positive aspects of the experience. He gained a new worldview by living with people from different cultures, practiced his English, acquired maturity, and learned through different methodologies, enriching his academic and personal experience.
For future exchange students, he recommends saving money to make the most of the experience and not hesitating to step out of their comfort zone, try new things, talk to people, and embrace different opportunities.
Regarding the cost of living, the production engineering student clarified that he spent about 700 euros per month, including expenses for housing, food, health insurance, cell phone plan, and leisure. This data is from an exchange student who lived in the city of Passau, Germany, in 2022.
This interview with Lucas Sigoli offers valuable insight into the challenges and benefits of participating in an academic exchange program, highlighting the importance of being prepared to face new experiences and make the most of this unique opportunity for learning and personal growth.
The international commission answers your questions:
What activities are expected of a student during their time abroad?
A: They are expected to fulfill the established agreements. The agreements vary from institution to institution according to the selection calls. In general, the agreements are linked to taking courses and/or participating in internships, research, and/or extension projects, when they exist.
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