Claire, an Environment, Resources and Sustainability student, spent her 3B term studying at the University of Liverpool in England. Here's what she had to say about the experience.
Why did you choose your host country and institution?
I wanted to go to an English speaking country to ensure I was able to understand lectures as well as to participate more in the community
What kind of courses did you take? How did they compare to courses at Waterloo?
I took a variety of courses, some related to my program, but I also took advantage of the interesting electives they had available.
What was an average day like in your program?
Classes at Liverpool only happen once or twice a week. On Mondays I had a 9:30am lecture (the earliest time slot), so the Sunday before, I would look over the PowerPoint so I had more understanding. I would wake up around 8:30am Monday morning, get ready and go to my lecture, which was only a 5 minute walk away. I would come back to my Halls and have breakfast, do some review from my lecture, then go to my second class in the afternoon.
What was one of your favourite experiences from your time abroad?
Getting to meet people from all over the world but sharing a lot of similar interests.
Were there any challenges? If so, how did you overcome or cope with them?
The time difference was a bit of a challenge at the beginning when trying to call home etc., but eventually I just got into a schedule as to what time and what days would work to FaceTime.
Did you have time to explore the culture and surroundings?
Yes, I was lucky enough to explore 4 other cities within England and 10 countries!
Has this exchange helped you personally, academically or professionally?
Definitely. I feel more independent and confident about myself and my ability to adapt to new surroundings, whether in the workplace or socially.
If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?
Travel more!
Do you have any advice for Waterloo students thinking of studying abroad?
Do it! You’ll have the best time!