UK – Faye
Student: Faye
Course: Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Laws
Program: Trimester exchange
What were some of the differences you observed compared to Australia when you arrived?
One difference I noticed was the student lifestyle compared to Australia. While living on campus, I shared a flat with eight other students from different parts of England. Living with them made it easy to form friendships, and living on campus made getting to classes so convenient! Experiencing this dorm lifestyle made me realise how different my university experience back home was, and I am very grateful I had the opportunity to be part of such a close-knit university environment.
Another difference I noticed was the night life. The main night all students went out was on a Wednesday night as this was when the uni club would host events. This was different to what I was used to as going out on a weeknight is something I would not normally do.
How did you spend your weekends?
Many of my weekends were spent exploring different parts of Europe or taking shorter trips around the UK. It was exciting to visit new countries, try new foods and immerse myself in many different cultures.
Some weekends were spent simply enjoying time with friends, going for walks around the lake, and exploring the local markets and cafes. Once the weather started to improve, we made the most of the sunshine by having picnics and dinners outdoors.
What was something that challenged you?
A challenge I faced was adjusting to the weather when I first arrived. For the first few months, the weather was often cold, rainy and cloudy. The sun would also set much earlier than I was used to, making the days feel shorter. However, maintaining a positive mindset, spending time with friends and establishing new routines helped me to embrace the experience.
What is one big thing you will always remember from your experience, or one big lesson you learnt?
One of the most valuable lessons I learnt was that saying “yes” and stepping outside of your comfort zone is always worth it. By being open to new experiences, I was able to meet amazing friends, create unforgettable memories and build my confidence. Stepping outside my comfort zone also helped me gain a better understanding of the things I truly value and enjoy.