While I was on exchange in England I had the opportunity to travel all across Europe. I went abroad for winter term of my third year, and spent six months in Europe. During that six month period I visited fifteen different countries and did some extremely spontaneous and amazing things. Some activities I did while travelling include: clay pigeon shooting in England, skydiving in the Czech Republic, canyoning in Switzerland, and Irish dancing in Ireland. There were so many great days and I met so many amazing people. The things I saw, the things I did, and the people I met all added up to an amazing six months and an experience I will never forget.
Going on exchange was the best thing I have ever decided to do. There are no doubt obstacles you will have to overcome, but they are beyond worth it.
My advice to anyone going on exchange would be to take every day and make it something special. Be flexible and open to new experiences, NEVER say no to an experience that sounds fun, challenging and out of the ordinary. You will not regret the things you did do half as much as you will regret the things you didn’t do!
As for packing, and what to bring… Don’t over pack (I did), you will be able to buy anything you need once over there and the prices are not as scary as some will say. You will thank yourself when attempting to get to your flat after a long day of travelling!
And lastly, international friends are great, and trust me you will make many, but try to put yourself out there and become friends with locals. They will be able to show you the most amazing things and give you a true taste of the English culture, it may be a little harder to do, but very worth it.
Aileen O’Doherty
BMOS & Psychology IV
University of Leeds - England
aodohert@uwo.ca
-
- Clay Pigeon Shooting
-
- Edinburgh
-
- Sky Diving
