Deklin (Sem 2, 2023)

My Exchange at The University of Arizona

Before commencing the exchange, I believe the 360 team does its best to inform each participant. It has specific country-focused sessions, which help with visas, housing, and cultural differences that may be encountered while abroad. I do think more information about the budget and expected costs would have been helpful since there are lots of expenses involved that I was not totally aware of until I had to pay them (application fees, visa fees, etc).

Q&A

What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?

The academic experience at the University of Arizona was exceptionally smooth and enjoyable. Over my semester, I learned so much interesting information about various things that have opened my eyes significantly. In part, this is due to the teaching method used at the University of Arizona. Firstly, I found my classes were smaller and more intimate, encouraging more participation and presentations. Secondly, the classes tended to favour an open note/open book method when taking tests and exams, which was much less stressful. I also found my instructors and professors at the University of Arizona to be unique, personable and super approachable, which made the learning experience highly engaging and enjoyable.

Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?

The University of Arizona organises many amazing outdoor trips and has some of the most excellent clubs on campus! I’d recommend going on a trip with Outdoor Rec to the many beautiful and diverse places Arizona offers.

What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?

1. Tuscon is hot – so be prepared for it. It does cool down over the fall/winter and is still super sunny, so regardless, most of the time, the weather is fantastic!
2. The US is expensive, so budget wisely, especially if you want to travel to different parts of the US – which you should.
3. Join clubs! It makes it easier to have fun, meet new people and see Tuscon and Arizona’s surrounding areas.

How much did you budget for your exchange? Was this enough? Were there any lessons learned that would help future students budget for their own exchange?

To be honest, I didn’t really have a budget. For the most part, I relied on personal savings and my weekly student loan. My parents 100% supported me throughout my exchange and helped cover any costs I struggled to finance independently. Doing an exchange is an experience, but worth it.

What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?

The most significant thing I’d take from my experience abroad is that embracing people’s cultural differences is essential. While studying abroad, you meet many different people, both local and international students. Therefore, studying abroad allows you to understand people from different cultural backgrounds and when you make friends, you learn to embrace people’s cultures. In particular, you get to know the differences in cultural norms and learn more about other countries, which is a gift and special takeaway.