My Exchange at Dartmouth College
How I Found Out About the 360 International Exchange Programme
I first learned about the 360 International exchange programme during an information session hosted by the University of Auckland’s International Office. I was intrigued by the stories from past students and the chance to experience a new academic and cultural environment. The programme’s website and student advisors were incredibly helpful in providing detailed guidance on the application process and destination options.
First Impressions Upon Arrival
When I arrived in Hanover, New Hampshire, I was struck by how picturesque and serene the town was. Dartmouth College’s campus felt like something out of a movie, with its traditional brick buildings and snowy landscapes (I arrived in winter). It was a stark but exciting contrast to Auckland’s urban vibe. I was nervous about adjusting to the cold weather and meeting new people, but everyone I encountered was warm and welcoming.
Accommodation
I stayed in one of Dartmouth’s residential halls, which was well-maintained and conveniently located near the main campus buildings. The dorms were comfortable and equipped with communal spaces, which made it easy to meet other students. Sharing a room was a new experience for me, but it turned out to be a great way to bond with my roommate and learn about American college life.
Orientation
The orientation at Dartmouth was comprehensive and well-organized. It included campus tours, academic sessions, and social events to help exchange students integrate into the community. The International Office staff were approachable and eager to assist with everything from course enrollment to finding the best local cafés.
Courses and Teaching
The courses at Dartmouth were both challenging and rewarding. I appreciated the liberal arts approach, which encouraged interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. Classes were smaller compared to Auckland, allowing for more interaction with professors. The teaching style was highly engaging, with a mix of lectures, discussions, and hands-on projects. My finance courses, in particular, were taught by professors who brought real-world experience into the classroom.
The Host City and Country
Hanover is a small, close-knit town with a charming New England feel. It’s surrounded by beautiful nature, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. While it doesn’t have the hustle and bustle of a big city, its community-focused atmosphere was a refreshing change. The United States as a whole offered endless opportunities for travel and exploration, from nearby Boston to iconic destinations like New York City and Washington, D.C.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Hanover was higher than in Auckland, particularly for dining out and purchasing groceries. However, the campus meal plans were reasonably priced and offered a variety of options. Planning and budgeting in advance helped me manage my expenses effectively.
Extracurricular Activities
I joined the Dartmouth Outing Club, which organizes outdoor adventures, and the Archery Club, which was a fun way to try something new. I also participated in events hosted by the Finance Club, which allowed me to connect with like-minded students and expand my professional network. Traveling around New England with friends during weekends was another highlight.
Life on Campus
Campus life at Dartmouth was vibrant and inclusive. The traditions, such as bonfires and Winter Carnival, created a strong sense of community. The libraries and study spaces were top-notch, providing the perfect environment for both individual and group work. There was always something happening on campus, from guest lectures to cultural festivals.
Food
The dining halls offered a wide variety of meals, catering to different dietary preferences. I particularly enjoyed trying American-style comfort food like mac and cheese, as well as international cuisines. Hanover also had some great local eateries, including cafes perfect for studying or catching up with friends.
Highlights of My Exchange
One of the highlights was experiencing a true winter for the first time, complete with snowball fights and ice skating. Academically, I loved the opportunity to take unique courses that weren’t available at Auckland. Socially, I made lifelong friends from around the world, and our weekend trips created unforgettable memories.
Challenges of My Exchange
Adjusting to the cold weather and a different academic system was initially challenging. The quarter system at Dartmouth meant a faster-paced workload, which required strong time management skills. Homesickness also crept in occasionally, but staying connected with family and friends back home helped a lot.
Advice for Future Exchange Students
- Do your research: Learn as much as you can about your host university and city before you go. Knowing what to expect can ease the transition.
- Budget wisely: The cost of living can vary significantly, so plan your finances carefully and take advantage of student discounts.
- Get involved: Joining clubs and attending events is the best way to meet people and make the most of your exchange experience.
- Stay open-minded: Embrace the differences and challenges as opportunities to grow and learn.
The 360 International exchange programme was a life-changing experience that broadened my horizons academically, socially, and culturally. I highly recommend it to anyone considering studying abroad.
Q&A
What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?
Dartmouth’s small class sizes and engaged professors made learning super interactive and personal. I also enjoyed the flexibility of choosing unique courses that weren’t offered back home.
Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?
Definitely try kayaking —it’s a great way to experience the beautiful scenery around Dartmouth. You can hire kayaks from the university’s rental service, which makes it easy.
What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?
- Make the most of the meal plans—they’re super convenient and save you time.
- Join clubs or outdoor activities to meet people and explore the area.
- Be ready for cold weather; invest in a good winter coat!
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 budgeted $6,000 NZD for travel and extra stuff, with food and essentials covered by the meal plan. I think this was a good amount to travel around over the weekend and make the most of the exchange experience.
What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?
I learned to step out of my comfort zone and adapt to new environments quickly. It also gave me a deeper appreciation for the friendships and connections I made while abroad.
Do you want to share anything about travels you did outside your host city/country?
I visited Canada and got to see an ice hockey game, which was so much fun. It’s easy to cross the border from Dartmouth, and it’s worth doing while you’re there.
Is there any advice you could share about accommodation options at your host university and/or in the local area?
I lived on campus in a dorm assigned to me by the university, and it was a great setup. Everything was close by, and it made meeting people really easy.
Do you have any advice on what mobile phone apps and/or phone plans that were useful in your host country?
Public transport wasn’t great at night, but during the day, buses were reliable, and I used Google Maps to get around. It worked well for navigation and planning trips. I didn’t get a phone plan because Wi-Fi was everywhere on campus and around town.
Final Comments
Take every chance to explore the area and connect with other students—it’ll make your exchange unforgettable. Also, don’t stress too much; you’ll figure things out as you go!