Moon D. Study Abroad Ambassador
What is one word to describe your study abroad experience:
"It is challenging but in the end, you gain confidence and lovely experiences. You can also brag to everyone about it!"
MOON D.
Exchange student at the University of Birmingham, UK
Fall semester
Studying Bachelor of Science, majoring in Zoology
- What is the best thing that happened while you were studying abroad?
Meeting lifelong friends from all around the world and exploring with them!
- What was the biggest cultural adaptation you had to make?
The drivers are pretty intense in the UK and Europe! I knew in England they drove on the left side but I did not realize that I had to be very careful of the cars instead of cars being careful of pedestrians! I almost got hurt this one time when I was crossing a roundabout. So please be extra careful!
- In terms of your own cultural self-awareness, were there any instances where you realized that your own behaviours, perspectives, or attitudes were different. Where did those differences stem from?
In my experience, in lectures, you do not make friends easily. I usually make friends from clubs, the gym or my residence. However, in my home university peers sat down next to me and started chatting as if we were lifelong friends. I thought that was so different and unusual that at first, I found myself not being friendly back. But as I realized that this was very common, I started doing it back. I had lovely chats with my classmates and asked them for tips.
- Was there a situation where you felt your actions were culturally inappropriate? How did you adapt? How did you know these were the appropriate actions to take?
Even though I come from Canada and we are generally very polite people, I found the British to be even more Polite. I got accustomed to using "thank you" "please" "sorry" often. They also call you "love" and "darling" often which I thought was cute and endearing.
- Where was the coolest place you travelled to during your study abroad experience?
I have travelled to a couple of European countries throughout my time but, London was the coolest place in my opinion. It felt like the centre of the World, people were dressing so nicely, they were polite, the architecture was gorgeous... It was such a royal and intricate place, with every step a waft of history found you. The museums were free for everyone to access, the food was delicious, and the shops were so cute. I loved the UK's fashion sense.
- What is something that you know now, that you wish you knew before you studied abroad?
I would tell myself to be patient and not worry about making friends right off the bat. Sometimes these things take time and I shouldn't have put so much pressure on myself. After two weeks, I already had good friends to travel with!
- What was your best learning moment?
Fake your confidence until one day you don't have to fake it anymore. I used to feel anxious about doing things in public even though they were respectful actions. I started acting like I owned the place and started taking pictures without worrying about people judging me. I walked to campus and went sightseeing without worrying about anyone.
- Who was the hardest person to leave from home? How did you deal with that?
It was hard to leave my parents and my cats. I had just spent the summer with them so it was not as hard as I thought it would be. But I video-called them often, (especially the first days) sent them pictures and told them about my travels. I was so lucky to have a mom that came to visit me halfway so I got to see and show her around.
- Who was the hardest person to leave that you met while on exchange? How did you deal with that?
It was very hard to leave my roommate Patricia from Germany. We used to do everything together, go shopping, to the gym, and cook. She felt like my sister and leaving her felt very hard. I message her often and we promised to visit each other in our home countries. We schedule Facetimes to catchup often.
- If you were to recommend exchange to your best friend, what would you say?
I would say it is a perfect opportunity to see what is out there and gain a better appreciation for the world. It is challenging but in the end, you gain confidence and lovely experiences. You can also brag to everyone about it!
- What are your packing recommendations?
Don't pack cosmetics (shampoo, body wash etc.), you can always buy those there. Pack old bedsheets so you can use them there and then throw them away. Don't pack a lot cause you will need space for souvenirs and shopping!
- Would it be helpful to learn another language for this exchange?
I went to an English-speaking country for exchange but during my travels to other European countries, I realized that most people speak English. However I think it is respectful to at least try to speak the language when you are visiting, you can download google translate and that will surely be helpful!
- What role did language and communication (both verbal and non-verbal) play in fostering appreciation for a different perspective?
Smiling out of politeness was a great way to brighten my day. Especially with older people, they smile and expect you to smile back, this creates a sense of community and belonging.
- Did you live on-campus or off-campus? Would you recommend it, and why?
On-campus, because you can meet other exchange students! It is also very safe and close to campus. Definitely recommend!
- How did you finance your study abroad experience?
I got GSO bursaries and I had saved up all summer to fund for it! OSAP also helps when you are abroad.
- What interesting courses did you get to take while studying abroad? What was the title of the course(s)?
I took a course called "understanding archeology" and it was so fun! The professors were super friendly and knew me by name. While taking this course, I got to learn about past civilizations and how we acquire data from artefacts. It was such an interesting course and I would definitely recommend it.
- How do you see your exchange experiences benefiting your future career?
I had great relationships with my professors while abroad, I think this will help me look at master's options abroad. Having a diverse resume can enhance my future career options.
- Is there any other helpful information you would like to share with future study abroad participants?
Just do it! I promise you will not regret it!
