ESN Castelo Branco

ESN Castelo Branco is a non-profit organisation that belongs to the Erasmus Student Network (ESN), the largest student organisation in Europe, recognised and supported by the European Commission.

ESN Castelo Branco has a team of dedicated volunteers working to create a more mobile and flexible education environment by supporting and developing youth exchanges. Each year, the section provides guidance and assistance to international students participating in mobility programmes within its local community.

The section organises a variety of recreational, cultural, social, sportive, and civic activities, focused on causes such as environmental sustainability, social inclusion, health and wellbeing, culture, employability, and education.

These activities aim to facilitate the integration of international students into the local community, helping them navigate their stay and ensuring a smooth and enriching mobility experience. At the same time, ESN Castelo Branco promotes intercultural experiences for students who cannot study abroad, contributing to an inclusive internationalisation-at-home approach, and supports the reintegration of returning mobility students.


Aim

  • Work in the interest of international students
  • Improve social and practical integration of international students
  • Represent the needs and rights of international students locally
  • Provide relevant information about mobility programmes
  • Motivate students to study abroad
  • Support the reintegration of returning students
  • Contribute to improving accessibility and quality of student mobility
  • Foster volunteering and active citizenship among members


Mission

Enrichment of society through international students.


Vision

"To provide the best possible experience for international students while fostering intercultural understanding, self-development opportunities, and positive change within the local community."


Values

  • Unity in diversity: Valuing different backgrounds while sharing common goals
  • Students helping students: Volunteering for the benefit of others
  • Fun in friendship and respect: Building relationships based on mutual respect
  • International dimension of life: Embracing mobility, openness, and cooperation
  • Love for Europe as a space of peace and cultural exchange
  • Openness and tolerance: Learning from others and accepting differences
  • Cooperation in integration: Supporting international students holistically