In the first semester of my second year, I attended the University’s talk at the Global Opportunities Fair to learn about study abroad. I was inspired by a returning student talking about their experience. It was after this event that I chose to apply to study abroad.
I applied for two universities, Aarhus in Denmark and Utrecht in the Netherlands, as both were English speaking courses and based in Europe. However, I decided to accept an offer at Aarhus University, as it seemed similar to York in terms of the campus, lakes and ducks and just the overall supportive ‘vibe’.
Settling in
Living in another country was both daunting and exciting, but it was surprisingly easy to make friends. I found myself chatting to people I might never have otherwise crossed paths with. Adapting to a new ‘normal’ everyday life did take a while though. I missed the little things like my local takeaway, and of course my friends and family.
However, I gained a new level of confidence and independence, and a new feeling of being comfortable with the unknown. I have grown to love solo trips which I never would have imagined. There are so many similar people to meet that are in the same boat; it’s important to remember that.
A new way of learning
Studying in Denmark was VERY different to York. I learnt some valuable academic skills such as working in groups and considering new viewpoints. For all my essays abroad, I was able to choose the essay question, and the grade for each class was entirely determined by that one essay. For each essay, I also created a portfolio, with a title page, contents page and introduction. I liked this approach to submitting work as it felt very professional.
I felt like the teachers were very trusting, and encouraged me to explore my own ideas and interests. It was a students’ decision whether to do essays in a group or individually. I completed a group essay for one class, which I realised definitely wasn’t for me, but the experience helped me learn to work with new people and be more honest about what I thought was best. Classes were also different. We had one four hour class per week for each module, which I enjoyed as I was able to dedicate a day per week to each module.
Highlights
One of the highlights of the experience was meeting the many international friends I made along the way. Just one conversation leads to amazing friendships. What’s even better is keeping in touch with your friends once you all return home across opposite ends of the world. It is also nice to always have that place full of memories, where you plan trips to return to. That place will always be the one thing everyone has in common.
Support from home
I always knew throughout my study abroad experience that York was there to support me if I needed it. Before I departed, I attended a series of workshops from the Global Opportunities team. These supported me through all the different steps I needed to take before leaving. I also booked several one-to-one meetings with a member of the team to ask questions specific to my experience, which really helped.
Back in the UK
I felt like a new person returning from my year abroad. My confidence to do things independently and to work with a range of people increased considerably. It has also shaped my future choices, as I am about to return to Denmark to study a Masters in Journalism.
My year abroad experience was my best experience to date. I think about it everyday as if it were a fever dream! From the people I met, to the experiences I had, and how I grew in the process, it’s an experience all should go through. I remember regretting going abroad on my first day, as I sat in my bedroom, scared to go into my dorm kitchen and introduce myself to 15 strangers. But every day got easier. Now, I have the drive explore more of the world and different cultures, and learn new languages.
I think every student, if their course allows, should consider studying abroad. It really changes you as a person. University goes by so quickly. My year abroad allowed me to take a breather and redirect my focus in terms of my career plan and what I truly wanted out of my university experience. It’s a reminder that you’re young. That perhaps studying abroad is not something that will always be an option. So, whilst your home will be there for your return, you may find new homes along the way.
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