I took part in an experience of a lifetime - International exchange. From August to Decemeber 2014 I attended Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic. I learnt a great deal about myself and different cultures as the time flew by quicker then imagined.
During my 5 months studying overseas and I immersed myself witht the locals and the european lifestyle - I was able to learn more about he european culture this way. This notably included many scenic hiking trips and adventures supplemented by new foods, new friends, and new experiences. I was fortunate enough to travel extensively throughout Europe, visiting a total of 17 cities in 12 different countries.
During my 5 months studying overseas and I immersed myself witht the locals and the european lifestyle - I was able to learn more about he european culture this way. This notably included many scenic hiking trips and adventures supplemented by new foods, new friends, and new experiences. I was fortunate enough to travel extensively throughout Europe, visiting a total of 17 cities in 12 different countries.
Highlights of Exchange:
- The Beautiful hikes to Tatra Mountains and Krka National Park - Oktoberfest in Munich - Wondering the city streets - Seeing a concert performed by Kygo in Prague - Visiting with my French family in Paris, Neuvillette and Orsay - Orientation Week - Boat Cruise in Budapest - Le Louvre Museum - Staying connecting and meeting up with friends in new cities and countries - Trying and experimenting new foods and activities - Putting myself outside of my comfort zone |
My Experience Overseas:
Having the opportunity to study and travel abroad was a once and a lifetime; especially when you are able to share these experiences with friends and family. This was the first time I've ever done a solo trip before and leaving YVR was a mix of emotions from being extremely excited to being terrified, nervous and anxious to being enthusiastic to begin a new journey. Being able to speak a second language, french, helped exponentially while travelling, asking directions and help, and having awkward encounters trying to break down the language barrier. Arriving in Czech Republic was a culture shock; not many people understood english nor did they care to try. This was a very difficult challenge to overcome once arriving and facing this culture shock and adapting to their norms. Taking a beginner Czech language class was a huge step to adpating to their culture and being "accepted" within the community. Facing new and interesting challenges each week from travelling to different countries or cities tests your limits and comfort zones: Being lost trying to find a hostel in Istanbul for 2 hrs while asking people on the streets, who don't speak english, for directions and help; to ordering dinner at a local bar by pointing to the menu and nodding your head and hoping you'll get a delicious meal; to running across airports trying to catch your connection to the next destination; or to talking to other travellers on trains and soon realizing that you are both from the same city; Victoria BC! The friends, journeys and memories you create will last a lifetime. I was fortunate enough to experience something that only happens once in a lifetime. Having 50 other UVic exchange students across the globe and concentrated in Europe was remarkable. This was truly an amazing, excited and memorable experience and I would do it all over again. |