Autor: esmoadmin

We think that the previous preparation of the participants for their internship is of great importance in order to live a successful mobility experience abroad.

The  VIRGIL-MOB online course  goes in that direction, as well as our personalized Welcome Meeting presentation.

Each group that steps into our office is welcomed by their ESMOVIA tutor in the Welcome Meeting.

During the years we have improved and adapted the information that participants receive in their first meeting with ESMOVIA, paying always attention to our participants’ profile as well as their feedbacks.

The Welcome Meeting presentation takes place the following day after participants’ arrival. It is composed of 4 different sections where the staff of ESMOVIA explain all necessary aspects connected with their stay in Valencia:

1.) What is this all about?

In the first section of the meeting with their Group Coordinator, participants are informed about:

  • Presentation of ESMOVIA
  • Programme
  • The people they will be in contact with and who to contact in different situations
  • Services foreseen
  • The ESMOVIA handbook and the documents to fill in

2.) Tips for free time

Participants are also informed about cultural activities and tips to enjoy their free time and take the most of their stay in Valencia.

3.) Traineeship Preparation

The Work Placement Coordinator leads the traineeship induction. With this completely interactive session, we prepare the participants for their internship, helping them to reflect on their value, the skills they possess, what they can offer to the company, make them conscious of their capacities and believe in themselves.

It foresees:

  1. Information on working places and foreseen tasks
  2. Self-awareness dynamics to identify participants’ objectives, skills and expectations
  3. Useful communication tools

We are always positively pleased and surprised to discover some hidden talents, passions and interests that this session brings to the surface.

4.) Easy Spanish

Finally, we involve students in a short language Spanish course with basic and necessary words and expressions, like a survival kit that all participants need to know for their daily life and in the companies. Students are involved in dynamic activities recreating real situations.

Now everyone is ready to start the internship experience!

At ESMOVIA, we are committed to continuous improvement, and our mobility management system, MASYMO, is no exception.

As we adapt to the ever-changing needs of students and teachers involved in mobility projects, MASYMO (MAnagement SYstem for MObility) is evolving with innovative features designed to simplify the coordination of mobilities.

Whether organizing Erasmus mobilities for students or facilitating professional development courses for teachers, MASYMO ensures smooth collaboration with our partner organizations.

Why MASYMO?

MASYMO was designed to meet the specific needs we’ve identified over years of managing student and teacher mobility programmes. It simplifies the logistical process for ESMOVIA and our partners, centralizing key information in one easy-to-access platform.

All mobility stakeholders—sending organizations, participants, and ESMOVIA staff—are invited to contribute their part by entering crucial data into MASYMO. From participant lists and flight details to uploading CVs or assigning host companies and accommodation, MASYMO collects it all in one place for a seamless experience.

How MASYMO Supports Mobility Stakeholders

MASYMO is the ultimate tool for organizing Erasmus mobilities, benefiting students, teachers, and ESMOVIA staff in multiple ways. Here’s how each group can take advantage of its features:

For Sending Organizations:

  • Simple participant registration process.
  • Assignment of flight details for each participant.
  • Uploads for insurance information and accommodation rooming lists 🆕
  • Real-time progress tracking as participants complete their online forms
  • Immediate access to accommodation details and internship placements 🆕
  • Downloadable information vouchers for smooth coordination 🆕
  • Downloadable information vouchers for smooth coordination 🆕

For Participants:

Those participating in internships in Spain or other mobility and training programs coordinated by ESMOVIA can:

  • Complete their online application forms with personal information, such as CV, passport photo, ID, dietary preferences, professional experience, and internship preferences.
  • Manage their application forms directly through the EsMobile app for a more convenient experience 🆕

For ESMOVIA Staff:

ESMOVIA staff benefit from MASYMO’s ability to quickly generate all essential mobility documents, from financial agreements and internship contracts to certificates and final reports, streamlining the entire process and reducing the chance of errors.

By consolidating all data in one place and automating the production of necessary documents, MASYMO minimizes organizational errors and enhances the overall mobility experience for everyone involved.

Ready for Your Next Mobility Adventure?

Thanks to MASYMO, ESMOVIA is fully equipped to support students and teachers participating in mobility and training opportunities.

Now, we’re all set for the next round of mobilities. See you in Valencia!

The Erasmus Plus mobility program has long been celebrated for its transformative impact on students and young professionals. However, in recent years, the program has expanded its reach to include seniors, recognizing the unique needs, opportunities, and benefits that mobility programs can offer older adults.

Erasmus Plus Mobility Programs for Seniors

Erasmus Plus offers a range of mobility programs specifically designed to cater to the needs and interests of seniors. These programs provide older adults with the opportunity to travel, learn, and engage in meaningful activities that promote personal growth and well-being. From cultural exchanges and language immersion programs to professional development courses and volunteer opportunities, Erasmus Plus mobility programs empower seniors to embrace new adventures and unlock new horizons.

Benefits of Mobility Programs for Seniors

Participating in mobility programs through Erasmus Plus offers seniors a multitude of benefits, both personally and professionally. These include:

  1. Lifelong Learning: Mobility programs provide seniors with opportunities for continuous learning and personal development, allowing them to explore new interests, acquire new skills, and expand their knowledge base.
  2. Social Connection: Engaging in mobility programs enables seniors to connect with like-minded individuals from different backgrounds and cultures, fostering friendships and social bonds that enrich their lives and combat social isolation.
  3. Cultural Enrichment: Mobility programs offer seniors the chance to immerse themselves in new cultures, traditions, and ways of life, broadening their perspectives and deepening their appreciation for diversity and multiculturalism.
  4. Health and Well-being: Participating in mobility programs promotes physical and mental well-being among seniors, encouraging them to stay active, engaged, and socially connected, which can have positive effects on overall health and quality of life.

ESMOVIA’s Commitment to Seniors

At ESMOVIA, we are dedicated to organizing inclusive and engaging programs for seniors that cater to their unique needs and interests. From educational workshops to outdoor activities and study visits, we strive to create memorable experiences that inspire, educate, and empower older adults to live life to the fullest.

Recently, ESMOVIA hosted two vibrant groups of seniors as part of tailored mobility programs in Valencia under the Erasmus Plus projects «Aktywny Senior” and «Senior open to the world”, supported by Fundacja na rzecz edukacji SMART. These participants engaged in a diverse array of activities, including digital workshops, outdoor adventures, and professional visits, all aimed at promoting healthy habits and an active lifestyle.

Among them was Jan, a retired employer with a wealth of experience from his career in a national public transport company. Despite being 86 years old, Jan’s enthusiasm for learning and exploring new horizons was palpable. Throughout their stay, Jan eagerly immersed himself in every activity, from exploring the historic city center and Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias to attending digital workshops and outdoor excursions in Turia old riverbed. Jan’s zest for life and curiosity served as an inspiration to everyone around him, underscoring the transformative power of mobility programs for seniors.

Erasmus Plus mobility programs have the power to transform lives and enrich communities in profound ways. By providing older adults with opportunities for learning, socialization, and cultural exchange, these programs empower seniors to embrace new adventures, forge meaningful connections, and lead fulfilling lives well into their golden years. As we continue to champion inclusivity and diversity within the Erasmus Plus program, we look forward to welcoming more seniors on their journey of exploration and discovery with ESMOVIA.

 

Reasons to spend your Erasmus experience in Valencia: Las Fallas

Valencia offers an ideal setting for your Erasmus adventure, boasting the status of Spain’s third-largest city with a pleasant climate and less congestion compared to other major cities like Madrid or Barcelona. The city’s year-round sunny weather and easy access to beaches make it an enticing destination. If you’re considering Valencia for your Erasmus experience, there’s one compelling reason that stands out: Las Fallas.

Las Fallas is a traditional festival in Valencia, renowned worldwide and recognized as a ‘Festival of International Tourist Interest’ and part of the ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.’ This celebration is a must-see experience, showcasing elaborate monuments and vibrant festivities.

Monuments of Fallas

Originally stemming from ancient carpenters’ traditions, Las Fallas has evolved into grand structures made of cork and wood frames, reaching heights of up to 30 meters. These monuments feature central figures surrounded by ‘ninots,’ incorporating elements of humor and satire reflecting current events.

What to Expect During Las Fallas

Las Fallas is not just a local event but a global spectacle, with unique aspects often overlooked. The festival’s name originates from medieval torches known as ‘fallas,’ used in the city’s watchtowers. While Valencia is the festival’s epicenter, other places like Argentina also celebrate their version of Las Fallas. The festival’s duration has expanded since 1932, spanning from March 15th to 19th, with activities starting as early as February.

Mascletàs and Other Highlights

The festival’s signature mascletàs offer a daily display of rhythmic firecrackers at Town Hall Square, reaching intensities exceeding 120 decibels. The plantà marks the official placement of monuments for judging, while the ofrenda sees ‘falleras’ presenting flowers to the ‘Virgen de los Desamparados,’ creating a stunning tapestry. The grand finale, cremà, involves burning the monuments to ashes, symbolizing the end of the festival.

Experience Las Fallas

For those embarking on an Erasmus journey in Valencia during Las Fallas, essential experiences include exploring the monuments, indulging in local delicacies like fritters or churros with chocolate, witnessing breathtaking fireworks displays, and strolling through illuminated streets in Ruzafa.

Key Activities During Las Fallas

  • Crida: Last Sunday of February
  • Mascletàs: March 1st to March 19th
  • Plantà: March 16th
  • Ofrenda: March 17th and 18th
  • Nit del foc: March 18th
  • Cremà: March 19th

 

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and unforgettable experiences of Las Fallas, making your Erasmus adventure in Valencia truly memorable.