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What motivated you to participate in an overseas experience?

Traveling is a passion of mine, and participating in an exchange program offered me the opportunity not only to visit several countries, but also to experience what it's like to live there for an extended period. I believed that the exchange would provide me with valuable life skills and challenge me to step outside of my comfort zone.

What was the highlight of your Exchange?

Traveling and meeting people from all around the world has always been a passion of mine. During my exchange in England, I had the opportunity to visit several countries across mainland Europe. I was also fortunate to meet many locals, as well as other exchange students, some of whom have become lifelong friends.

What challenges did you face during your Exchange, and how did you overcome them?

Problem-solving was often required, whether it was organising small trips, managing university accommodation, or dealing with homesickness. To tackle each of these challenges, I would take a moment to reflect, make a list, and carefully consider my next steps. If I felt I needed additional support, I would reach out to my housemate or contact the study abroad team for guidance.

What was your biggest takeaway from your experience?

Completing the exchange has significantly boosted my confidence, encouraging me to embrace new challenges and further develop my sense of self. I am deeply grateful for the lifelong friendships and cherished memories I made during my time abroad.

Do you have 1 piece of advice you would tell other students thinking about going on Exchange?

Make sure to seize every opportunity to get involved, whether it's through university-led clubs and events or private gatherings. These experiences allowed me to meet amazing people and visit beautiful places.

What new skills or knowledge did you gain from the experience?

I definitely developed my problem-solving and communication skills. Living away from home in a different country presented many new experiences, and not everything always went as planned. Being able to manage my anxiety through problem-solving helped me fully enjoy the experience. Meeting so many new people also meant I was constantly communicating with a wide range of individuals. This has made me more confident as I return home.

What is something that would entice you to travel back to UK?

The European countryside is absolutely stunning. I would love to return and explore more national parks, as well as visit charming rural villages.

How did participating in an Exchange influence your personal growth?

As exchange was my first time living away from home on my own, which provided an invaluable opportunity to learn how to care for myself and develop essential life skills. During my time abroad, I took several solo trips, which I believe played a key role in strengthening my sense of self. These experiences required me to rely on my problem-solving abilities and initiative, helping me to grow in these areas. As a result, I’ve found these skills have positively impacted all aspects of my life.

How did this overseas experience impact your academic or career goals?

The skills I developed during my exchange have helped me communicate more confidently in my part-time job, and I believe they will also be valuable in future interviews. As an engineer, it was fascinating to see how information is presented differently abroad. I believe this experience will provide valuable insight if I choose to pursue an international career.