Between the 25th and 28th of July 2024, one of the most important training events of Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Romania took place in Bucharest. Over 60 volunteers from across Romania gathered for the Local Boards’ Training to learn more about their positions and develop skills essential for their new mandates.
The event opened at the University of Economic Studies, featuring motivational speeches to inspire the newly elected local boards. We were honored by the presence of Professor Constantin Marius Profiroiu, Vice-Rector for International Relations at Bucharest University of Economic Studies, and Mihai-Ștefan Găiculescu, Mobility Projects Expert from the National Agency for Community Programs in the Field of Education and Vocational Training (ANPCDEFP). They spoke about mobilities, advocated for the Erasmus+ Programme, and highlighted the growing relationship between their institutions and ESN Romania.
Additionally, Robert Ardelean, President of ESN Romania, made a surprise appearance via video conference, delivering an encouraging opening speech. He emphasized the importance of unity, growth, and dedication to the mission of ESN — enriching society through international students. He inspired the volunteers to embrace their responsibilities, highlighting the challenges and rewards of their roles.
“All of us here are brought together by a common goal, which is also the mission of ESN - the enrichment of society through international students. We all work towards creating that magical, unforgettable Erasmus experience, advocating to better the program and making it more accessible while also having a positive impact on local communities.
We are the voice of the Erasmus Generation. Take everything you can from these sessions, ask questions, engage with each other, even build the foundation for future sections cooperations. Then take it back to your city, to your volunteers. Show them how much we can do in ESN and how much ESN can do for us. I also encourage you to not stop here. There are many levels to this org, many events to be discovered and memories to be made. And they are all waiting for you. You are the future of ESN Romania and you are the future of the Erasmus Generation.”
Robert Ardelean, president of Erasmus Student Network Romania
During the event, participants had the opportunity to interact with Local Board members and ESN volunteers from different sections, sharing best practices and learning together. They attended workshops designed to provide practical knowledge for their future activities in ESN, as well as action-planning sessions and reflection groups.
Friday's common sessions focused on ESN’s governance, GDPR, and internal communication. On Saturday, participants engaged in two tracks of sessions covering Education, Communication, Events, and Finance. These sessions addressed both soft and hard skills, including:
- Brand Identity & Content
- Analytics & Growth of Social Media
- Project Planning
- Crisis Situations
- Collaboration with Stakeholders
- Recruitment, Motivation, and Retention of Volunteers
- Grants and Other Funding Opportunities
- Website Management
- HR & Teambuilding
- Budgeting & Finances
On Sunday, local boards worked on drafting their section’s action plans, creating strategies and receiving feedback from the National Team. This dynamic session helped them refine their plans through shared insights, practical advice, and collaborative discussions.
This event marked the beginning of a promising journey for the new local boards, setting the stage for a year of impactful change and continued dedication to the values and goals of ESN. The future of ESN Romania looks bright with these passionate and well-prepared leaders at the helm. ESN Romania aims to enrich society through international students by promoting intercultural understanding, self-development, and the benefits of studying abroad. Currently, there are 14 local sections across major universities and over 300 active volunteers, supporting around 1,000 to 1,500 international students annually through various initiatives.
Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Romania is a part of the largest student association in Europe, dedicated to supporting and developing student exchange programs. We operate through a network of local sections, organizing over 100 events, including cultural activities, social gatherings, and training sessions, along with national events such as the National Assemblies, National Trainings, and for Erasmus+ students, events like Escape to Vama Veche, National Erasmus Games, and Halloween in Transylvania.
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