My Exchange at University College London
Exchange Experience at UCL
Considering an exchange was exciting, especially after receiving emails from the 360 International team. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to travel and study something I love. At the University of Auckland, the Physics Department offers limited astrophysics courses, so I sought a program with a leading astronomical department. UCL fit the bill perfectly.
Arrival and First Impressions
Upon arriving at UCL, I was captivated by the historic buildings. It was incredible to think the university was older than New Zealand itself! Experiencing my first true UK winter, with -8 degree days and early sunsets, was quite a change from home. The picturesque snow falling during my walk back from an early math lecture was unforgettable.
Accommodation and Orientation
My accommodation was conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the Physics Department, near Tottenham Court Road. It was surrounded by excellent shops and grocers, which made settling in easier. The rooms were spacious, and even during summer, the comfort remained despite intense heating. Orientation was straightforward, with resources on the affiliate students’ website, including seminars and inductions about living safely in London.
Academic and Campus Life
The courses, especially in physics and astronomy, were exceptional. I took Practical Astrophysics 1A, learning about CCD detectors and common coordinates in the field. Another course taught by leaders in the field was Astrophysical Processes, taught me about nebulae and atomic spectra. Attending the APEX focus group at Birkbeck, University of London for lectures every Friday was a fantastic experience. The lecturers were welcoming and knowledgeable, making the learning experience enriching. Campus life was vibrant, with easy access to study spaces and a secure, gated campus providing a sense of safety.
Balancing academics and exploration was initially overwhelming, given the vastness of London. It was impossible to see everything, but that was okay. I finally visited Hampstead Heath just before leaving, which was a reminder to prioritize experiences without pressure.
Joining the Space and Physics Societies was a fantastic decision. Seeing historical texts like the Principia Mathematica and engaging with fellow enthusiasts was inspiring. The range of societies available, from sports to cultural groups, added to the enriching experience.
Exploring London and Beyond
Living in London was fantastic, albeit more expensive than Auckland. Budgeting was crucial, as food and accommodation were pricier. I needed about 1.5 times my initial estimate to cover travel, dining, and experiences. London’s connectivity allowed me to explore Europe, and witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland was a highlight. Traveling with new friends from the halls made the experience even more memorable.
Social and Cultural Life
UCL’s location meant delicious restaurants and cafes were nearby. Soho and Fitzrovia were just steps away, with Trafalgar Square, Mayfair and Covent Garden a short Tube ride. The diversity of cuisines and vibrant nightlife added to the excitement. I attended the Trooping the Colour ceremony, which was an incredible experience. Seeing the King and the impressive musical performances was unforgettable.
Adjusting to local customs was interesting; people walked on the right side of the footpath, which took getting used to. I also embraced the tradition of large hot breakfasts, which quickly became a favorite. Making new friends in the halls enriched my experience, and sharing these adventures strengthened our bonds.
Final Thoughts
Think about what you want to achieve during your exchange. While you may not accomplish everything, meeting goals can be incredibly rewarding. Most importantly, enjoy every moment—it will be over before you know it!
Q&A
What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?
A major highlight was the particle physics course I took, which covered the Standard Model, Feynman diagrams, and nuclear shell models. It was taught by Andreas Korn, whose expertise made the complex topics engaging and understandable. He used to work at CERN- a major nuclear physics research centre in Geneva that I went to visit.
Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?
UCL Museums and Collections: UCL has several fascinating museums and collections. The UCL Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology and the Grant Museum of Zoology are great places to explore.
Historic London: Visit historical sites such as the British Museum, which has an extensive collection including the Rosetta Stone. The Tower of London and Westminster Abbey are also rich in history.
Outdoor Spaces: Spend time in London’s parks, like Hyde Park or Regent’s Park – the latter of which UCL is right next to. Hampstead Heath is great for panoramic views of the city.
What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?
Embrace the Local Culture: Make an effort to immerse yourself in British culture. Try traditional foods like a full English breakfast and explore local pubs.
Plan and Budget Wisely: London is exciting but can be expensive. Plan your budget carefully and keep track of your spending on accommodation, food, and travel. Look for student discounts and free activities which definitely helped me when travelling
Explore Beyond the Campus: While UCL and London have a lot to offer, make sure to explore beyond your immediate surroundings. Take day trips to nearby cities such as Oxford and Cambridge – especially if you consider studying there one day like me! Visit historical sites, and travel around Europe if you can. This will not only enrich your experience but also give you a broader perspective on your exchange.
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?
Initial Estimate:
- Around $14,000-$20,000
Actual Expenses:
- Closer to $23,000-$28,000
Tips for Future Students:
- Detailed Budgeting: Break down your budget into categories like accommodation, food, transport, and leisure. Include a buffer for unexpected expenses.
- Track Expenses Regularly: Use budgeting apps or UK bank apps such as Revolut to monitor spending and make adjustments as needed.
- Student Discounts and Deals: Take advantage of student discounts on attractions, dining, and shopping.
- Find Affordable Alternatives: Cook at home, explore affordable dining options, and seek out free or low-cost activities.
What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?
Travel and Exploration: Traveling around Europe and experiencing different places like Iceland likely reinforced the value of exploration and adventure, it made me realise just how big the world is!. Seeing new landscapes, cultures, and historical sites can enrich your worldview and provide lasting memories.
Do you want to share anything about travels you did outside your host city/country?
Iceland: I particularly enjoyed Thingvellir National Park and the scenic walks we did there. The park’s unique landscapes were awe-inspiring. Additionally, reaching the northern-most southern tip of any country in Iceland was a memorable achievement—fun fact, New Zealand has the southern-most northern tip of any country, so I’ve now been to both extremes!
The Nordics: My time in Finland, Sweden, and Denmark was fantastic, especially because of the outdoor walks. The cities are so well-connected with their rapid transit systems, making it easy to explore the beautiful natural surroundings and urban areas.
Central Europe: Geneva in Switzerland was a standout for me. I can understand French to a medium capacity, which made my experience there even more enjoyable. Visiting CERN was a highlight, offering a fascinating glimpse into cutting-edge research and science.
Each of these trips provided unique experiences and deepened my appreciation for the diverse cultures and landscapes across Europe.
Final Comments
Explore Beyond the Tourist Spots: While major attractions are worth visiting, take time to explore lesser-known areas. Hidden gems often provide a more authentic experience and a deeper connection to the city or country.
Prioritize Health and Well-being: The change in environment, weather, and lifestyle can impact your health. Stay active, eat well, and make time for relaxation. I needed this advice when I went over as it is easy to spiral into a situation where you might feel lost.
Document Your Experience: Keep a journal or take photos to capture your experiences and reflections. It’s a great way to remember your journey and share your stories with others.
Be Flexible and Open-minded: Things might not always go as planned, and that’s okay. Being adaptable and open to new experiences will help you make the most of your exchange and turn challenges into opportunities.