NVSU student has returned from the University College South Denmark

3rd year NVSU student Elena Fomenko, studying at the Faculty of Humanities, won the university competition to study at the University College of Southern Denmark - UCSYD in Aabenraa.  Elena spent 5 months (February - June 2016) studying the college program of Crossing Borders: Cultural Diversity in Early Years Education.

The student was awarded Erasmus+ scholarship, which is the most prestigious European student grant. It covers all costs of stay and study at a EU university (cost of travel, accommodation, visa costs and insurance).

Elena’s biggest dream was to study abroad and get to know how people from all over the world live. Thanks to NVSU international seminars, she learnt about mobility programs offered by the University College South Denmark and seized the opportunity to participate in the Erasmus+ program. Within the program, Elena completed four training modules:

• Crossing Borders, an introductory course to introduce the students to the Danish education system and the Danish language;
• Cultural Diversity in Education, a theoretical study and research in schools and pre-schools related to certain topics, such as inclusive education of children;
• Educational Development Project, an independent student project involving three school classes on a particular subject. NVSU students made a photo project with a display of photographs made by children;
• Practical Training Period in schools and pre-schools, with a portfolio on teaching techniques and educational system.

At the end of each module, Elena took various tests and oral examinations, wrote essays and filled out feedback indicating pros and cons of the course covered. Since practical training is an essential part of the Erasmus + course, Elena also did her practical training in Danish schools which focused on improving overall teaching profession capabilities.

Elena also shared the impressions about Denmark. According to her, Denmark is country of natural beauty, diverse scenery and great history. The happiest place on Earth offers many attractions, but Elena was impressed by the GeoCentre Møns Klint.

Elena wishes perspective international students to be more determined, open-minded and self-motivated as living and studying abroad is an exciting opportunity not to miss, because it helps international students to learn to cope with problems on your own, work under pressure, develop teamwork skills, meet new people and make friends, learn about other cultures, improve language skills and simply  travel and have fun!