Erasmus Exchange Students at Växjö University : Network formation and utilisation of resources

• Main Author: Schütze, Carolin
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: Växjö universitet, Institutionen för vårdvetenskap och socialt arbete 2009
• Subjects: Erasmus exchnage students; social network; resources; conditions of life; Social work; Socialt arbete
• Online Access: http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:vxu:diva-2548

The aim writing this thesis was to get an understanding about how Erasmus exchange students find their way in their new environment. Furthermore, to see what kind of resources are available for them and which they eventually use if they have a problem or just to make themselves feel more comfortable. The students' ages are between 20 and 23. The thesis analyzes the strategies the exchange students are using. In detail, where they meet people and what is supporting them. It also analyzes resources the students are relying on and the satisfaction with the students' life at Växjö University. The data were collected with eleven interviews. With the interviews was also handed out a questionnaire to the interviewed student. The result shows that the living situation is a coefficient when it comes to socializing, in this case living in a corridor. Also, going out to the students' pub and attending Växjö International Students (VIS) activities. Erasmus exchange students tend to rely on resources in the home country which are the family or friends or they are likely to rely on other students from the same country or foreign students as well. The overall satisfaction of the students' life is on the upper third of the certailnly measurement.