UTS Think Global

A Tale of 3 Cities

December 22, 2023

A TALE OF 3 CITIES

In July of this year, I had the opportunity to travel to Brazil for a month. My first week was spent in Sao Paulo, followed by 2 weeks in Belo Horizonte attending UFMG summer school and then finishing my trip in Bahia.

Sao Paulo

From the moment my plane landed to the moment I arrived at my Airbnb; all I could hear was the city. The music, the culture, and the vibrant nightlife, all of it just rushed at me as I sat in my Uber. Even though it was late at night, and I was jet lagged, I could already tell I was going to have a great time here. And I did. Sao Paulo had a lot of touristy things to do. Museums, Art galleries, exploring Avenida Paulista on a Sunday etc. But what I really enjoyed was the days I spent talking to locals, visiting different neighbourhoods, and absorbing my surroundings.

One thing I loved about the city was how alive it was. I was always surrounded by people and had access to so much stuff in ways you wouldn’t find in Australia. I could stroll down the street and buy a range of different food from barbeque, Pipoca, hot dogs (not the ones you’re used to in Aus) and Acai!!. The best way I can describe Sao Paulo is as a Tropical urban city.

Belo Horizonte

Now onto the main event. On July 16, I arrived in Belo Horizonte and was greeted by green hills, houses in the distance and what first felt like a quiet mining city. I took an Uber from the airport to my student accommodation, where I was greeted by Pedro (shoutout to Pedro), a Brazilian student who helped me settle into my room. From there on, the rest of the day was spent finding out how wrong I was about the city being quiet. I met other international students, explored the neighbourhood, attended a street market, and ended the night off at a bar socialising.

The next morning, I got right into my program. The daily routine was simple. One lecture in the morning and a Portuguese class after lunch. Outside of this, the University organised a plethora of activities, from field trips, dance classes, movie club and even a Secret Santa. The activities didn’t stop there; during our free time, Brazilian students took us out to clubs, samba parties, markets, festivals, local events and even my first Tranquillo.

One of my favourite activities organised by the University was a field trip to Inhotim an Art Gallery and Botanical Garden in Brumadinho, Mines Gerais. It started with a 2-hour drive to the location, and I spent most of that catching up on my morning sleep. When we arrived, we were greeted by what looked like a 1-hour wait line. Jokes. The University had actually already pre-booked our group in, so we got to skip the line and get right into our tour session, which gave us a quick rundown of the place.

And this place was breathtaking. The Art Gallery wasn’t one building but multiple stops spread out across nature. Some locations were indoor art galleries, while others were artworks in the open. Unfortunately, I couldn’t explore all the different parts of the place due to being super tired from an event I attended the night before, but even the time I spent lying in the sun watching the view was pure bliss.

Needless to say, my final day in Belo Horizonte was definitely bittersweet. While I was excited to be going to Bahia. I was also saying Goodbye to the city and all the beautiful people I had met.

Bahia

Bahia, Bahia, Bahia. One thing you’ve probably already heard about travelling outside of your country is how much you miss it. By this time, I had already spent 3 weeks in Brazil, and one thing I was missing for sure was the beaches in Australia. And I know what you’re thinking, how can you be in Brazil and be missing beaches. This is because, due to its location, Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte had no beaches. So yes, after three weeks, I was still waiting for my Brazilian beach experience, and Bahia did not disappoint. Imagine sitting under the warm sun, fresh coconut in your hand, spicy Acarajé by your side, and a view of the golden sunset across the ocean. No worries and no cares in mind.

Outside of the beaches, Bahia had so much to offer. It truly is the country’s soul; it has a rich culture, striking African influence and a soulful Candomblé religion. But that’s all a story for another day. For now, I’ll recommend that if you visit, make sure to try out the different foods, explore the old town of Pelourinho and go to at least one Samba party.

Mamu Dukuly
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Summer school on Brazilian Studies, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brazil
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship recipient
Travel and explore Canadian natural beauty during my exchange

December 21, 2023

During the 2023 autumn session, I was fortunate enough to have the incredible opportunity to study abroad on a university exchange program in Regina, Canada. This was my first time living overseas for an extended period and I was excited to embark on this new adventure.

It was initially daunting to leave everything I knew behind at home and enter a whole new country alone. But upon arriving, I was immediately struck by the friendly and welcoming nature of Canadians. I quickly became close with the locals who introduced me to Canadian culture and made my time here one of the most memorable and enjoyable experiences of my life. The small city had a cosy feel to it, and I quickly found myself settling into my new surroundings. I was also fortunate to receive accommodation on-campus in a large 2-bedroom dorm with a kitchen and lounge area which made my living situation easy.

One of the biggest adjustments I had to make was to the weather. Coming from a hot and sunny climate, the snowy winters took some getting used to, however, the city was fully equipped to combat the cold.

Another major adjustment for me was to the education system which is different from what I am used to at UTS. I chose to study direct equivalents of my UTS subjects in marketing and finance. These classes were not delivered in lecture/tutorial format. Instead, we had two scheduled classes per subject each week which were more discussion-based and practical to encourage critical thinking. This was both challenging and rewarding, as it allowed me to grow both academically and personally. Guest speakers would frequently join these classes to offer new perspectives and share their expertise. Additionally, weekly quizzes were helpful for applying learned content and retaining it.

One of the highlights of my experience was the opportunity to travel around Canada with new friends and explore the country’s natural beauty. I visited places like Toronto, Calgary, Banff and took various road trips to surrounding lakes which left me in awe of the natural wonders of this country. The landscapes were breathtaking and unlike anything I had ever seen before. With Canada’s proximity to the United States, I was also able to travel here to escape the snow and enjoy warm weather during the mid-semester break.

Throughout my exchange, I had the chance to meet people from all over the world who were also studying abroad. It was amazing to hear their stories and learn about their different cultures. These friendships have lasted beyond my time in Canada, and I am grateful for the connections I made. I also loved the sports culture where I could play various sports with friends including basketball, ice hockey and soccer at the great facilities on campus.

Overall, my exchange experience was unforgettable. It gave me the opportunity to grow personally, academically, and culturally. I would encourage anyone who has the chance to study abroad to take it, as it is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Mia Clarkson
UTS Business School
Autumn 2023 at University of Regina, Canada
Unlocking Seoul: My Yonsei Summer Experience and Tips

December 20, 2023
안녕하세요!

Hey there! I’m Santi Untario, a Media Arts and Production student at the University of Technology Sydney. Guess what? I’ve decided to spice things up by studying Korean in the Yonsei International Summer School program in South Korea.

I think that the Korean media will rapidly grow its popularity worldwide and understanding their language and culture seems essential for my future career. My global short program experience was an exhilarating journey that blended academic exploration with cultural immersion.

Before you arrive in South Korea, here are the highlights of my global short program experience that might be insightful, ranging from finding the perfect place to live to mastering essential apps for survival in the bustling streets of Seoul.

My Little Story of Finding a Home

Securing a spot in the university dorms might seem tough since you’re competing with other exchange students worldwide. Moreover, the rooms are limited, usually on a first-come, first-served basis. This happened to me, but thankfully, I have found a place through Airbnb with plenty of options at reasonable prices!

I felt anxious when I arrived because my landlord didn’t speak English. Surprisingly, living with her was one of my best experiences in South Korea. Despite the language barrier, she was incredibly kind and treated me like her own daughter.

The landlord used Papago to show me the way to the university as we walked around the neighbourhood

My landlord went the extra mile to introduce me to the neighbourhood, making my first days in Seoul truly welcoming. Pro tip: Learning a few basic Korean phrases can go a long way in forging meaningful connections! On my last day in South Korea, she woke up early and cooked me samgyetang, a South Korean traditional ginseng chicken soup and it was really delicious.

Apps to Navigate Seoul Like a Pro

Hidden cafes in South Korea

Exploring the vibrant streets of Seoul requires more than just Google Maps. Never mind, Google Maps doesn’t even work in South Korea :(.

As I’ve learnt the hard way how to survive in Seoul, here are some essential apps that can save you time, and maybe even your life:
1. Papago: Your go-to translation app. Translate Korean words accurately, even by scanning them.
2. Kakao Talk: The lifeline for communication and a gateway to downloading other essential apps. Don’t forget to secure your Kakao Talk ID!
3. Kakao Map or Naver Map: These GPS apps not only guide you but also unveil hidden gems, from delightful eateries to charming cafes. Google who?
4. Kakao Taxi: Your reliable companion for hassle-free transportation. Don’t forget to get a T-Card for your travels – it works for buses and trains too!
My Tips for a Successful Summer Experience

Try speaking Korean

Embrace the local language, and you’ll find doors opening to warm hospitality. According to my experience, demanding English may come off as rude. A few Korean phrases can make a world of difference.

Drink Responsibly

As ambassadors of the University of Technology Sydney, maintaining a positive image is crucial. Drink cautiously and contribute to a positive cultural exchange. Don’t just punch the police when you’re drunk – which often happens according to the police in South Korea.

Time Management

Remember to strike the perfect balance between studying and exploring. The people I met during my summer at Yonsei will forever hold a special place in my heart. They are truly amazing! I will forever cherish our shared adventures and our shared adventures exploring Seoul and the countless late-night study sessions in cafes. Unlike Sydney, the cafes around Yonsei University operate 24/7, making it an absolute haven for night owls like me!

Food Hunting with my friends in South Korea

As I wrap up my summer at Yonsei, I can’t help but feel grateful for the amazing experiences and friendships that made this journey unforgettable. Leaving Seoul with a heart full of memories and new friends, I’m ready to carry these stories back home. Seoul, you’ll be missed, but the memories will last a lifetime!

Hope my experience may be somewhat helpful for the readers who want to study in South Korea.

Santi Untario
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Summer Session in Korean Language at Yonsei University, South Korea
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship Recipient

Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Summer Session in Korean Language at Yonsei University, South Korea

Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship Recipient
All Roads Lead to Leeds

December 18, 2023

Hi! My name is Samara and I study a Bachelor of Business and am currently in my final year of study. During the break, I had the incredible opportunity to study at the University of Leeds and participate in the Leeds International Summer School (LISS) which was undoubtedly the best decision of my life.

LISS is a phenomenal program that combines tuition, academic field trips and exciting social events. This provides students with the opportunity to study a huge range of academic modules, and implement their learning in real-life situations while also meeting like-minded people from all over the world. During my time at LISS, I studied ‘Business and Cultural Awareness: Bridging the Gap’. This module explores the huge role one’s culture plays in business deals and situations and the impact this has on today’s globalised society. This module included a group presentation, a self-reflection and an exciting field trip to Nexus, which is the University of Leeds’ business centre.

Throughout my studies, LISS also offers exciting excursions. One of my favourite excursions was to York – a city rich in history and medieval charm. The architecture and the vibe of this city were unreal. Another excursion I really enjoyed was to Harewood House – a beautiful country house and garden.

Outside of our usual academic modules and excursions. The program also offered a huge range of social events which allowed me to meet so many lifelong friends. Things like karaoke night, movie night and board games are some memories I will never forget!

The Global Short Program (GSP) is a fantastic opportunity to meet lifelong friends, step outside of your comfort zone, independently travel and learn new skills that no classroom will ever be able to teach. I highly recommend the GSP and would encourage anyone to go and take that leap. It truly is an absolutely unforgettable experience.

Samara Sakander
UTS Business School
Leeds International Summer School at University of Leeds, United Kingdom
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship recipient
Embracing the Unknown: My ACICIS Public Health Study Tour in Indonesia

December 15, 2023

Have you ever been faced with an opportunity that scared you yet excited you at the same time? That’s precisely what happened to me when I embarked on ACICIS’ two-week Public Health Study Tour (PHST) in Indonesia (Jakarta and Yogyakarta). Whilst the whole trip was amazing, some parts stuck out more than others.

Learning Material

The most significant aspect of the tour was exploring and interacting with Indonesia’s public health system. My public health degree and my personal interest helped me familiarise myself with Indonesia’s current public health challenges, policies, and initiatives. During site visits and workshops, I witnessed the workings of healthcare facilities, interacted with dedicated professionals, and engaged in thought-provoking discussions about the intricacies of public health in Indonesia.

Bogor Waste Management Facility

For our first field visit, we travelled to a waste management plan in a small village called Bogor in the West Java province of Indonesia. On the field trip, we learned that Bogor was the first city in Indonesia to implement the Plastic Smart Cities program and promoted the idea of Reduce-Reuse-Recycle. It was so fascinating learning about the recycling process in Indonesia, and I found it impressive that they manage to recycle their rubbish so efficiently despite their lack of resources and funding. The ladies in the image to the left live in Bogor and wanted to take a photo with Emily and I

Setu Babakan

One of our cultural field trips was to Setu Babakan, a cultural village that taught us about the Betawi culture. We learned how to cook a traditional dish consisting of egg, shredded coconut, and rice, among other things, and we also made a doll called an Ondel-Ondel, which is an icon of Jakarta often performed at festivals and in villages to provide protection and ward off evil spirits.

Language and Culture

Another significant aspect of the program was language and culture. Throughout the program, we had to participate in a three-day Bahasa Indonesia language course at Universitas Indonesia (UI). This course was not just about learning a language but bridging cultural divides. It gave me the tools to communicate effectively with locals, peers, and professionals. These skills allowed me to engage in meaningful conversations, introduce myself to lecturers in Indonesia, and connect with our UI buddies and locals on a more personal level. The ability to communicate in Bahasa Indonesia fostered my learning and genuine connections with the people I encountered. Immersing myself in the Indonesian culture was another highlight of the trip. Active participation in local events, traditional workshops and conversations with locals allowed me to gain a firsthand appreciation for Indonesia. These experiences deepened my cultural understanding and provided unique perspectives that can only be acquired through direct engagement with customs and traditions.

This Global Shorts Program in Indonesia was an eye-opening, one-in-a-lifetime opportunity that helped me personally and enriched my professional perspective. It taught me not to fear the unknown and to embrace opportunities that scare and excite me. This transformative program equipped me with resilience, adaptability and a profound cross-cultural understanding that will undoubtedly shape my personal and professional life. It’s a testament to the fact that stepping out of your comfort zone is often the key to incredible personal and career growth.

Annika Haller
Faculty of Health
ACICIS Public Health Study Tour in Indonesia
New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant recipient
Learning business from passionate teachers in France

December 14, 2023

Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity to explore new cultures, make new friends and expand your academic horizons. For many students, it is a chance to study subjects that are not available at their home university, or to gain a new perspective on their chosen field of study. In my case, I studying Marketing at home at UTS, but study Economics and Management as an elective at my host university in Aix-en-Provence, France, and it has been an eye-opening experience.

At my home university, the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), I am enrolled in a Bachelor of Business with a major in Marketing. However, the courses I am taking at Aix-Marseille Université are not direct equivalents, but rather electives that I have chosen to supplement my studies. Along with Marketing, I am studying Economics and Management, which are giving me a broader understanding of the business world.

One of the aspects of my host university that I have been most impressed by is the quality of the teachers. Although the classrooms are smaller and less technologically advanced than what I am used to at UTS, the teachers are passionate and inspiring, and they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their lectures.

However, I have noticed that the teaching style in France is quite different to what I am used to at UTS. There is less interactivity in the classroom, and students are expected to take more responsibility for their own learning. This has been a challenge at times, but it has also forced me to be more independent and self-motivated.

In terms of the structure of my courses, I have both lectures and tutorials, but the emphasis is definitely on lectures. This has been a bit of a shock to the system, as I am used to having more tutorial-style classes at UTS. However, I have found that the lectures are a great way to learn about new concepts and theories, and then I can apply them in my own time.

Overall, I have found studying in Aix-en-Provence to be a really interesting and valuable experience. It has given me the opportunity to explore new areas of business, learn from passionate teachers, and develop my own learning style. I would definitely recommend studying abroad to anyone who has the opportunity, as it can be a life-changing experience. Don’t be nervous, it is the greatest leap of faith you will ever take in your life, and trust me, you will be rewarded.

Natasha Beatham
Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of International Studies
Autumn 2023 at Aix-Marseille Université, France
A visual journey through iconic locations in Nottingham

December 13, 2023

As an architecture student from Australia, my Global Short Program journey led me to the historic grounds of Nottingham Trent University for an intensive two-week Photography and Heritage course. Although my familial ties connected me to London, this adventure marked my first venture beyond the bustling streets of the capital city. Little did I know that this short but impactful experience would expose me to a global community and a diverse cultural landscape.

The Global Summer School at NTU proved to be a melting pot of perspectives, with participants hailing from India, Canada, France, and various corners of the world. The first week unfolded as a captivating exploration of Nottingham’s rich heritage, with daily field trips that took us to new destinations ripe for photography. This immersive experience opened my eyes to the nuances of traditional English architecture, a stark difference from those in Australia.

The first day served as an orientation to Nottingham, weaving together the city’s history and its legendary connection to Robin Hood. With this I was able to get to know my peers which were surprisingly mainly from either India or Australia, bar the one Canadian student.

Caught taking a selfie with my classmates by the tutor at Newstead Abbey

The week’s itinerary took us on a visual journey through iconic locations, each providing a fresh canvas for our lenses. Matlock Bath, with its picturesque landscapes, offered a delightful contrast to the urban sprawl I was accustomed to. Newstead Abbey, a treasure trove of history and architectural splendour, became a living textbook for our exploration. Sherwood Forest, steeped in folklore and legends, left an indelible mark on my understanding of cultural heritage.

Beyond the lens, the Global Short Program facilitated an exchange of ideas and cultural insights. Conversations flowed seamlessly, transcending borders and creating a bond among us that was as diverse as the backgrounds we represented. The collaborative spirit that emerged among the participants enriched my learning experience, providing me with a global perspective that is invaluable in the field of architecture.

Last day of the course group photo with everyone and one of our tutors

York Minster, a cathedral I saw on the Saturday day trip to York with everyone completing the NTU Summer Program

As an architecture enthusiast, witnessing the diverse architectural styles of the UK was a highlight of my journey. Comparing and contrasting the structures of Nottingham with those back home in Australia broadened my understanding of the influence of culture on design. It was a lesson in appreciating the uniqueness of each locale’s architectural identity.

The Global Short Program not only expanded my professional knowledge but also enriched my personal growth. Navigating through cultural differences and forging connections with people from around the world reinforced the importance of global collaboration in today’s interconnected society.

Aliesha Teixeira
The Global Summer School at Nottingham Trent University, England
Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship recipient
Discover the Danish concept of “hygge” in Denmark

December 11, 2023

I recently had the most incredible and rewarding experience at Aarhus University, Denmark where I undertook an intensive summer semester studying ‘Managing Language in International Organisation’.

The university environment was informal and interactive… not too dissimilar to Australia, where you develop close friendships with peers and teachers. All our assignments involved group work, which allowed me to connect and collaborate with students from all over the world and get insight into the disparities in our cultures.

Our daily classes finished at 1 p.m., which was followed by a seasonal, vegetarian buffet lunch provided by Aarhus University, where we would all sit at communal tables and chat. On Thursdays, they also had an ice cream van that would come around and hand out free ice cream, making the uni week much more enjoyable.

Before arriving in Aarhus, my expectations of Danish society were shaped by the idea that it would resemble Australia’s warm and laid-back culture, characterised by strong bonds of friendship and camaraderie. However, while both cultures embrace a sense of community, this ethos manifests in very distinct ways. The most noteworthy contrast lies in the Danish concept of “hygge,” which emphasises creating an atmosphere of cosiness, comfort, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. I loved getting to know the locals who showed me this way of life by taking me out for weekend picnics and hikes and having great conversations over a glass of natural wine.

Whilst I love Denmark and everything it has to offer, I must admit, I underestimated how high the cost of living is. If you’re looking to do this awesome program, I would recommend putting together a budget to ensure you have enough funds to make the most of your experience.

As the first country to implement environmental law, my experience in Denmark offered me the perfect opportunity to witness and interact with integrated sustainability initiatives. Throughout my time in Aarhus, I rode bikes everywhere I went, shopped only at their amazing vintage clothing stores and tried their seasonal and sustainable restaurants.

Studying comparative systems of governing society was fascinating… I cannot wait to import the underlying values and political ideas within Danish society into my studies and future professional career. I enjoyed observing how Danish society successfully challenges the nexus of fashion and sustainability by emphasising the circular economy.

Maela Kornhauser
Faculty of Law
Winter Program at Aarhus University, Denmark
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship recipeint
My time at LSE and a journey to Seven Sisters Mountain

December 8, 2023

Embarking on a global short program was a dream come true, an adventure that broadened my horizons and enriched my understanding of diﬀerent cultures. From the vibrant hustle and bustle of London to the tranquil beauty of Seven Sisters Mountain, my journey was ﬁlled with remarkable experiences that have left an indelible mark on my life.

One of the highlights of my trip was the Thames River cruise. Gliding along the iconic river, I marveled at the architectural wonders that adorned the London skyline. The intricate blend of modern and historic structures told the story of a city that seamlessly intertwines its past and present. The boat ride provided breathtaking views and allowed me to connect with fellow students worldwide who shared my passion for exploration.

London’s cultural diversity extends beyond its architecture. A visit to its renowned bookstores was a feast for the mind and soul. Wandering through the aisles of these literary havens, I immersed myself in a world of knowledge, creativity, and imagination. Engaging in conversations

with fellow book enthusiasts, I realized that literature transcends borders, fostering connections that bridge cultural diﬀerences. This experience reinforced the notion that the pursuit of knowledge knows no boundaries.

A journey to Seven Sisters Mountain was a breathtaking escape from the urban setting of London. As I hiked alongside my classmates, the natural beauty of the British countryside unfolded before me. Rolling hills, vibrant meadows, and dramatic cliﬀs painted a vivid tapestry rivaling Australia’s stunning landscapes. The camaraderie among us as we conquered the trails mirrored the unity of nature’s elements, reminding me of the universality of human connection.

ReﬂecKng on my global short program experience, I am reminded of the transformative power of exploration and cultural immersion. Engaging in many acKviKes, from strolling along the Thames to scaling Seven Sisters Mountain, has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the beauty of shared experiences. These memories have become a tapestry of personal growth, forming the fabric of my global journey.

As I conclude this chapter of my adventure, I am grateful for the opportunities that allowed me to embrace the world’s wonders and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

The global short program has deepened my appreciation for diﬀerent cultures and sparked a lifelong curiosity to explore and learn beyond borders.

Fei Yuan
UTS Business School
London School of Economics and Political Science, England
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship recipient
Biomedical Engineering in Liverpool

December 7, 2023

I am a 4^th year Biomedical Engineering student from UTS. I have applied for the UTS Global Exchange Program to learn different teaching methods and subjects, as well as to make new friends from other countries. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to study at the University of Liverpool (UoL) in the UK. The subjects I have selected at UoL were Musculoskeletal Biomechanics, Cardiovascular Bioengineering, Tissue Engineering and Enterprise Studies. The first three subjects listed are electives and were chosen because the subject outline intrigued me. The final subject was a direct equivalent subject that I had to do in my 4^th year – Entrepreneurship. In UoL, Biomedical Engineering is a Master’s degree, unlike UTS where it is a Bachelor’s degree.

University of Liverpool

Being that the subjects I have chosen are at a Master’s level, they are completely at a higher learning stage than the previous subjects I have done before at UTS. Even though I may struggle to understand some content of the subject, I am in fact enjoying it as it is very interesting. All the subjects have lectures ranging from 1-2 hours. Apart from that, I have two tutorials for two subjects and no practical. The teaching style is quite similar to UTS wherein group work for assignments is encouraged.

Life in Liverpool, UK has been extremely fun and fulfilling. I have opted to live within the campus, rather than having accommodation outside of the university. I am glad that I have chosen this option because living with other people has been a thrilling experience for me, one which I have never done. The accommodation I have chosen is self-catered. Some may see this as a downside, but with the friends I made on this exchange, making food together has been overall the best experience.

Making Food Together

It is absolutely so fun to make food with people because you experiment if it’s actually edible or not, while chatting up on how everyone is doing. Meeting new people is definitely a frightening situation and one may not know how to initiate it. UoL held a bunch of orientation programs such as a Welcome Night, a UoL Accommodation Formal and a faculty induction. These events enabled me to meet almost everyone on exchange and form solid friendships. Now about the city of Liverpool. There are a lot of activities to do such as bowling, live karaoke, sight-seeing, clubbing, and going to the pub. One benefit to living in the UK is that you are literally a train ride or 1 hour flight away from Europe. Compare that to Australia. For instance, with Dublin Ireland being 1 hour flight away from Liverpool, my friends and I spontaneously decided to fly there for St. Patrick’s Day. I mean who other than the Irish can say they celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Ireland.

Trip to Dublin Ireland for St Patrick’s Day

I encourage everyone to apply for Global Exchange as I believe it is a once in a lifetime experience that I will forever have fond memories of. My tip for any takers is to always say YES. Whether it be to going to an event, accepting an invite, joining a society, or grabbing free food provided by the university, just do it. Trust me, it’ll definitely be worth it in the end.

Marie Aguinaldo
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Diploma in Professional Engineering Practice
Biomedical Engineering at University of Liverpool, United Kingdom

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