6 Reasons I Decided to Go on Exchange

I feel like I always knew I wanted to go on an exchange semester while I was in university. My sister went 3 years ago and decided she wanted to do it about 2 years before that. I think that’s when I decided that I would go too.

Now, it’s 2 months until my plane leaves and as much as I am panicking, I am also so excited. I know it will be an incredible experience, and I can’t wait to live in a new, amazing country. My family and I have been to Europe before, but I know this will be an entirely different experience.

I guess I won’t actually know before I go, but if you are thinking of going on an exchange, go! There’s resources to help you along the way, whether that be financially, or nerves, it’ll be worth it in the end.

Here are 6 reasons why I decided to go on an exchange semester:

1.the Experience

The overall experience is definitely my first reason. I can’t wait to be immersed in a different culture, learning new things, and meeting new people. An exchange is something you will remember for the rest of your life. Although going to school in another country is cool, it’s the normal everyday things that I’m excited for. Getting coffee in a cute cafe, biking around Copenhagen, and living the European lifestyle are the things I am really looking forward to.

2. the Resume Booster

I would be lying if I said I won’t use this on my resume. Employers value diversity. Having an exchange under my belt gives me an edge over those who stayed in Edmonton their whole degree. I will know more about business practices in other countries and have a greater understanding of business around the world. In a field of study where everything is such a competition, having this experience could benefit my career in an amazing way.

3. the Opportunity to Live Abroad

Not everyone gets the chance to live abroad in their lifetime. Going on exchange takes out a lot of the stress of living abroad. I have a small herd of other students doing the exact same thing as me. I don’t have to worry about where to live or if I’ll meet other people. The chance to live in a foreign country doesn’t come often, and after this, it might not come again, so I am so excited to take advantage of it while I can!

4. the Traveling

In Edmonton, it takes about 3 hours to drive to Calgary which is the closest big city. There are other smaller towns scattered, but not a whole lot. In Europe, 30 minutes can take you to a whole new country! Umm, count me in! Considering their flights are dirt cheap, my to-go list is getting slightly long.

5. the European Lifestyle

Here in Edmonton, it takes me about 45 minutes to get to school, 20 to get to some friends’ houses, and that’s all by car. I can’t wait to be able to bike to school or walk to a weekly brunch. That will be the biggest adjustment coming home for me, not being able to get to everything in a short amount of time by walking or biking. I do live in the suburbs so I know that needs to be taken into account, but I won’t be moving downtown for a while, so I am going to do all the walking while I can!

6. the European Fashion

Probably pretty obviously, I love fashion. Edmonton has some very well dressed people, don’t get me wrong, but the fashion in Europe is uncomparable. They dress beautifully in what looks so effortless. It is so hard to emulate, but that’s my goal! I know I can bring a bunch of my outfits, like this one, this one, and this one, but I want to learn to dress like a European, and I have no doubt my bank account will hate me for it!

It’s T-minus 2 months until I head out on the adventure of a lifetime, and I am shaking in my seat to go!

Have you gone on an exchange semester? What was your favourite part of your time abroad?

xx Victoria