Destination: Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
Duration: 2 Semesters
Program: Criminology
Highschool: St. Michael Catholic Secondary School , Stratford, Ontario
What is one word that you would use to describe your exchange experience? Exhilarating.
What was the best thing that happened to you while on exchange?
I was able to be so independent and learn so much about myself. I was able to travel to 13 countries in 12 months and see so much of the world that I never would have seen if it wasn't for my time on exchange. I met some lifelong friends and cannot wait to see them again.
How did you finance your exchange?
I worked during the summers as well as part time jobs during the school year, so I was able to save most of my OSAP money to use while on exchange. I received OSAP for my year abroad which was very helpful. There are also awards/bursaries available to you when you go on exchange. It did not cost me nearly as much as I thought it would.
What was the biggest cultural shock that you experienced?
The culture in Europe, and England especially was very laid back compared to life in Canada which I was not used to. It was a nice change but it took some time to get used to for sure.
What was the coolest place that you traveled to while on exchange?
I loved each country I visited for a different reason, but if I had to pick just one, I would pick Spain as I loved the culture, the language and the food.
What is something that you know now, that you wish you knew before you left for exchange?
Travelling in Europe is as cheap as everyone says it is.
If you were to recommend exchange to your best friend, what would you say?
I had the best year of my life while on exchange and I would encourage everyone to experience a semester or a year abroad.
Is there anything else that you would like to share?
Going on exchange was the best thing that happened to me during my time at the University of Windsor. It allowed me to continue to study, as well as allowing me to fulfill my passion of travelling.
A sample of the classes taken:
- The Sociological Imagination (credit for SACR 2200)
- Crime and Media (credit for SACR 3740)
- Crime, Deviance and Control (credit for SACR 4600)