In previous sections you learned about your Hero's Journey and how to draft a testimonial and make a presentation. These are all the elements you need to shoot a perfect testimonial video.

Practical advise

Be aware that a video should last between 3-5 minutes to really catch the attention of the audience.
be creative, tell the story just as you would to a friend or family member
make it visual, include photos or clips of your time abroad
make it personal and easily relatable
you can also use a souvenir or item from your mobility which reminds you of your host country. This will make your experience more real to your audience.

Tools you can use to present your testimonial:

For videos: Vimeo, youtube
For blogs: wordpress, blogspot
For presentations: powerpoint, prezi, powtoon

It is not obligatory to have a presentation when you are speaking to an audience, however it helps to structure your speech. In a moment of hesitation or stress, you can always relate to the slides and get back on track with what you intend to say. And of course, you can always use social networks, but be aware of the personal details you share.

These guidelines set out some helpful advice and tips for students who want to create a video about their experiences abroad. They will take about 10 minutes to read through. You will then be equipped to create your own video with simple tools. Follow the instructions, set up your studio, and... ACTION!

Download handout: How to make a video

Suggested topics

Review your answers from 11.1. A Hero's Journey and its Steps. This should give you some direction for the contents of your video. If you are still stuck or have a hard time getting started, here are some suggested topics for you to include in your because they are the typical things you yourself probably wanted to know before your departure. Now, by sharing your experience you can be of great help to future students by becoming an ambassador of international mobility. And, once you are back at your home University, you could be a mentor for international students and help them to become culturally, academically and linguistically integrated with their new country and city of residence.

Was your host University located in a big or a small city?
Did it have a big campus on the outskirts of the city or were Faculties located at different places around the city centre?
How easy was to find accommodation? Did you live in a residence or a shared apartment?
Did you suffer culture shock? If so, how did you manage it? Recall a time that demonstrates culture shock for someone who has not experienced it before.
How were the methodologies for teaching and evaluation? Was it very different from your Home University?
Did you make local friends?
How did you manage with the languages?
Which abilities do you think you acquired during your mobility?
How can you balance your general experience studying abroad?
What's your best memory of your mobility?
Would you recommend an international mobility to other students?

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