Each year, over 60 staff members from the University of Limerick (UL) take part in the Erasmus+ Staff Mobility programme, venturing to different countries to exchange knowledge, foster collaboration, and broaden their professional perspectives. For some, like Nicole Campbell, Senior Administrator at the Cooperative Education & Careers Division, and Professor Witold Kwapinski, Course Director of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, these experiences are more than just academic—they are deeply personal journeys that lead to newfound confidence, valuable connections, and fresh insights into education systems across Europe.
Nicole and Witold share how their respective mobility experiences in Germany and the Netherlands not only enriched their understanding of dual education systems and teaching methodologies but also inspired them to embrace new challenges and contribute more fully to their roles at UL. Their stories highlight the power of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, exploring new cultures, and engaging with colleagues from around the world.
Nicole Campbell - Senior Administrator, Cooperative Education & Careers Division DHBW Mannheim, Germany (April '24)
“Completing this Erasmus+ Staff Mobility was my first experience traveling abroad on my own, and it significantly boosted my self-confidence. Navigating new and unfamiliar areas without feeling overwhelmed was a key takeaway, and I returned with a sense of independence I hadn’t had before.
During my time at DHBW Mannheim, I had the opportunity to connect with colleagues working in Cooperative or Dual Education. Despite the differences in how work placement programmes are structured, there was much to learn from their approaches, particularly how DHBW alternates students between the workplace and university throughout their degrees, unlike UL's block-release system.
I found it inspiring how similar our goals were in employer outreach, programme development, and providing overseas work placement opportunities. These similarities allowed me to bring fresh perspectives back to UL, which I’ve shared with my colleagues.
I would highly recommend staff mobility to anyone—it’s an invaluable way to meet like-minded professionals, expand your views, and perhaps even discover something new about yourself. The chance to explore some of Germany’s beautiful regions, like the Black Forest, Stuttgart, and Heidelberg, was an added bonus!”
Professor Witold Kwapinski - Course Director, Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Netherlands (March '24)
“My Erasmus+ experience in Eindhoven broadened my perspective on chemical engineering education. Interacting with both faculty and technicians provided invaluable insights into innovative teaching methods and laboratory practices that I’ve since incorporated into my work at UL.
I particularly enjoyed the laboratory demonstrations and discussions with colleagues, which offered a deep dive into the practical applications of engineering education. These interactions weren’t just informative—they were inspiring, allowing me to bring back fresh ideas on curriculum development and student engagement strategies.
For anyone considering Erasmus+ Staff Mobility, my advice would be to prepare thoroughly. Familiarising yourself with the host institution’s curriculum and methods will help maximise the experience. It’s also crucial to actively network with staff and students to build meaningful connections. Most importantly, be open to learning and sharing—it’s a two-way street that can lead to rich, collaborative opportunities.
Being adaptable is essential as well. Flexibility in a new environment can open doors to unexpected opportunities, making the experience even more rewarding.”
Both Nicole and Witold’s stories show how participating in Erasmus+ Staff Mobility is a transformative experience, offering not only professional enrichment but also personal growth. From building confidence in navigating foreign environments to learning from international colleagues, the benefits of staff mobility reach far beyond the classroom. It provides an opportunity to gain fresh perspectives, foster new ideas, and return with a renewed sense of purpose.
For those at UL considering Erasmus+ staff mobility, these experiences are a powerful reminder of how valuable it can be—not only for personal and professional development, but also for fostering a global network of educators and innovators.
