A Blog about Education Abroad

Category: University of Strasbourg

  • Siphosihle Mzongwana at the AC21 World Student Forum

    Siphosihle Mzongwana at the AC21 World Student Forum

    PRE- DEPARTURE:

    My preparations were quite overwhelming at some point because it was my first time to travel abroad. Because of this I decided to book my flight through a travel agent so that I avoid unnecessary stress. I didn’t want to make any mistake or encounter a system error online that will cost me dearly. The travel agent booked for me my return ticket and also got me travel insurance. The most overwhelming one was the visa application process. I had to make sure that I get the relevant documentation for the visa. I had to get the acceptance letter from AC21, letter of proof of accommodation in France, return flight ticket, travel insurance, letter from the university validating that I am a registered student and I will resume my academic program after the Student World Forum, two passport size photos and a fee of R1200.

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  • Claire at the AC21 Student World Forum

    Claire at the AC21 Student World Forum

    RITUALISTIC PLANNING BEFORE I LEFT:

    After getting over the excitement and shock at being selected for such an incredible opportunity, I started planning. Before the travel bursary was discussed I started looking at flight prices and times. I used Travelstart to book my flights- that website really is the best way to find the cheapest flight. I was lucky to be able to extend my stay for three nights in Basel, where I had a friend. I bought train tickets online and they delivered it to my house- all very easy- google Eurorail South Africa and it is simple from there! I did not have to get a VISA because I am a British citizen, so that was another benefit for me . I suggest learning a few words of the country you visit, just to communicate in the shops. I had to resort to sign language very often.

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  • Francis at the AC21 Student World Forum

    Preparation:

    I first heard about the Academic Consortium 21 (AC21) through the monthly newsletter which I received form the International Office. The theme of the conference looked really appealing as I am studying International relations and the theme dealt with Local and Regional Democracy in Europe. Perfect right!
    After seeing this I immediately went onto the website to do some more research and the more I read, the more I became excited about this and just wanted to jump in and start my application.
    The application process was actually very easy and straight-forward. Initially it does seem daunting and I was especially worried about the VIDEO! I had never made a video before and the editing in itself seemed like a rather daunting task. It was actually so simple! I used the Windows Live movie maker programme and it was so self-explanatory. I even added a few affects here and there and added some music. (more…)