Anthony A.
Exchange destination: Jonkoping International School of Business (Sweden)
Duration: Fall 2017
Program: Business
High school: Holy Names High School
One word to describe your exchange?
Breathtaking
How did you finance your exchange?
I worked a part-time job while I was in school and have been saving for a while. I decided that going on an exchange was a very worthwhile way to spend the money that I had saved up.
What languages do you speak?
English. I was constantly blown away at how good everyone else’s English was. Even people who would start with “oh sorry my English isn’t very good” would surprise me with how well they could speak it. It might help to know other languages but everyone I met was happy to talk to me in English regardless of where they were from.
What was the coolest place that you traveled to while on exchange?
Getting to go to Oktoberfest in Germany was easily the most fun I’ve had so far. Exploring the nature and forests of Sweden was also a great experience with beautiful views.
What is something that you know now, that you wish you knew before you left for exchange?
Take what you’ve packed, half it, and then seriously reconsider what you think you’re going to actually need when you’re gone. I packed way too much stuff I didn’t need and ended up leaving most of it in Sweden to make room for the cool things I wanted to bring back with me.
Who was the hardest person to leave when you went on exchange? How did you manage that?
I worried about missing my family/friends, but I miss my dog the most. You get to talk to your family/friends but not so much your pets. Looking at pictures helps, and knowing that you’ll be back home soon enough.
Who was the hardest person to leave that you met while on exchange? How did you manage that?
I met a girl while I was on exchange and it was hard to say goodbye after spending time together and getting to know one another. The world is so connected now, so even though we’re on opposite sides of the world, it is easy to stay in touch.
Is there anything else that you would like to share?
The only regret you’ll have is not taking this opportunity now when you have the chance. You’ll never look back on this experience and go “oh I wish I didn’t go on exchange”.
How have you included exchange on your resume?
I have listed the school, Jonkoping International School of Business, under the education section of my resume.
A sample of the classes taken and credits received:
-
3rd Year Credit for Principles of Project Management
-
3rd Year Credit for Entrepreneurial Creativity