ABSTRACT
The objectives of the Erasmus Programme have changed over time, but persistent themes emerge: a European identity, the competitiveness of Europe in global markets, employability, language skills, and ‘truly European citizens’. For some students, Erasmus represented a manageable adventure: out of the comfort zone, but in a controlled and safe way. The Erasmus experience has the reputation of being one long party. The Erasmus Programme is promoted as having multifarious objectives. The ‘Erasmus bubble’ is legendary and the phrase quoted by several of the students interviewed. Some universities had societies aimed specifically at Erasmus or international students, organising outings. Who students lived with during their Erasmus period, and their living arrangements, profoundly affected who the students mixed with and the quality of their interactions and friendships. The availability of English-medium teaching was often a factor in the decision where to go on Erasmus.
