The Art of Adapting – Insights to my Life Abroad
“When it feels scary to jump in, that is exactly when you jump”
Oscar Isaac as Abel Morales in A Most Violent Year (2014)
(29/08/2024) 3:30 PM EST
There’s a quote that’s been etched in my mind since I was 16. It explores the idea of pursuing your interests, dreams, and goals, even when they scare you. I’ve learned that taking on challenges, pushing through fear, and emerging on the other side are one of the most rewarding feelings. Even though I’m quite shy and reserved, this quote has guided me to step out of my comfort zone, face opportunities that once felt terrifying, and in turn, helped me grow into the person I am today.
Going on a student exchange has been a dream of mine for years. When the opportunity finally came, I knew I couldn’t let it pass, though the thought of it was pretty daunting. I had so many questions racing through my mind: How would I afford this? Will I make friends? Will I be safe? All the what-ifs flooded my brain, but that quote kept reminding me—if it feels scary, that’s exactly when you should do it.
Preparing for this exchange took about a year in advance, it was a lengthy process and at times, was overwhelming. Finally being abroad sometimes feels so surreal to me and I cannot believe I’m here!
My journey officially began on August 24th, with an 18-hour flight from Auckland, NZ to Vancouver, and then to Toronto. I spent two days in Toronto, picking up dorm essentials and exploring the city before heading to Western University.
Canada has always intrigued me, and being able to study here for a semester feels like such a privilege. My first impression of Western University? Huge! The campus is massive and stunning, with a mix of modern architecture and old Victorian-style buildings that look like castles. Everyone here has been incredibly friendly, always willing to help at any moment, which has made settling in much easier.
Photographs of some buildings on the main Western University Campus! + The Welcome Centre event in The International and Graduate Affairs Building
Lucky for me, Western University has a great system for exchange students, including a portal where we could connect with potential roommates. We would first have to build a profile by answering a few questions on what we are like as roommates and our expectations. After exchanging a few messages, I ended up rooming with another exchange student from Denmark—definitely made the transition smoother having someone else in the same boat.
Above is a glimpse of the Western Campus map. Bayfield Hall is the current dorm I reside in, where the buildings I have circled are where my classes are on campus! All my classes are a 10-15 walk from my dorm.
Home Opener Football Game
(01/09/2024) 7:00 PM EST
One of the coolest experiences so far was attending my very first Canadian football game on September 1st. The energy was exactly like something out of those high school movies! The Western Mustangs played against Waterloo University’s Warriors, the atmosphere was lively and intense, and you could really tell how involved everyone was, making the experience much more memorable. Fortunately, the Western Mustangs won with an impressive score of 71-3. The games are held at the Western Alumni Stadium, about a 20-minute walk from my dorm. I definitely see why football is such a big deal here!
All home football games are played at the Western Alumni Stadium which is roughly a 20-minute walk from my residence (Bayfield Hall).
Overall, my time at Western has been fantastic so far. The campus is beautiful, the people are welcoming, and the weather—at least for now—is beautiful (still summer). If you’re thinking about going on an exchange, my biggest advice is to step out of your shell and put yourself out there! By putting myself out there, attending social events, and meeting and getting to know people from all over the world I have made plenty of friendships making my experience even more memorable and I cannot wait to see what is yet to come.
Remember when it feels scary to do that is exactly when you should do it !!!
Till next time xx
Breanna <3