Aviya Bavati

Bachelor of Law/Bachelor of Arts (International Studies)
Aarhus University, Denmark

Going on exchange while at university is something I had wanted to do since high school. After finishing year twelve I was eager to leave home, meet some interesting new people and most of all challenge myself by being out of my comfort zone. When I finally arrived in Europe, it was difficult for me to digest that everything I had planned for was suddenly happening. I was so far from home and everything was so different. It felt wonderful.

I spent the next couple of months backpacking around Europe on my own, but never feeling lonely. I made friends instantly with travellers from all over Europe, with North Americans and Aussies as well. Days were spent seeing the sites while nights were spent sampling the local nightlife. In late August I arrived in Denmark in time to participate in a three-week Danish language and culture program, an incredible learning experience that prepared me for the semester ahead.

The classes I took in Denmark were interesting and not too difficult. They left me with lots of time to socialise at the countless parties organised by the University’s various party committees. I also had time to travel Europe with my newly-acquired friends. Whenever we could, we would fly out on a whim and visit the city of our choice.  

When the time came to come back home, it was hard to leave. My experience abroad has enriched me with unforgettable friends and adventurous experiences. Exchange had turned out to be every bit the breath of fresh air that I had been looking for.