My Exchange at The University of St Andrews
I first found out about the exchange programme through a friend who had applied to Amsterdam, I looked into it and knew that St Andrews would be a perfect fit. My initial thoughts were it was similar to NZ in some sense but a tiny version. The accommodation was really nice with a great group of people and even better location, only about a 2 minute walk to the 1st Tee of the Old Course. Its a great small city with a variety of good food options, activities and a number of great destinations to travel to all within a short car or bus ride. However, the cost of living is quite high and it can be quite an expensive place to live. If you love golf or just any sport in general its a great place to be as it is a Uni that takes a lot of pride in the extracurricular side of student life.
Q&A
What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?
My highlights were definitely studying in the old buildings of the University. It is a great environment being surrounded by like minded students who wish to learn from the best.
Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?
Definitely golf, it is possibly the best golf membership in the world and the ability to play the most historic course in the world a number of times is unbeatable.
What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?
- Embrace the change – it is different but in a good way
- Get involved in extra curricular clubs or societies
- Bring Black Tie
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?
I didn’t really have a budget as I just wanted to enjoy the experience. I would say it was more expensive than living in Auckland
What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?
My most significant takeaways were that it really helped me grow as a person and the connections I have made were amazing. I couldn’t recommend doing an exchange enough
Is there any advice you could share about accommodation options at your host university and/or in the local area?
I lived in catered accommodation which was in a really good
Do you have any advice on what mobile phone apps and/or phone plans that were useful in your host country?
YoungScot – for free bus travel under the age of 22
Trainline – booking trains
Giffgaff – Uk sim card