Picking the right university
This post is going to be all about picking the right university to go on exchange to. I'm going to be honest, I never thought that I would end up at Queen's University. My initial thoughts were Europe or China, but then I asked myself certain questions and I eventually ended up at Queen's.
Here are some questions to consider when you're making your decisions:
1. Do I want to practice a certain language whilst on exchange?
If you've been learning a language during high school or university/college, then by all means choose that country! As a Chinese girl myself, my Chinese improved exponentially when it was just my brother and I staying with my aunt and uncle in Guangzhou who don't know a smidge of English. Getting immersed in the culture and language is the best way to polish your bilingual (or multilingual) skills.
2. Where have I already travelled?
This makes your decision slightly easier, as it rules out those countries that you have already been to - or maybe travelling to those countries has burned a desire in your heart to return! I have been to Europe twice and China far too many times, so I decided to not apply to those countries.
3. Are there any particular universities or countries that are particularly suited for my field of study?
China - in particular Shanghai and Hong Kong, are growing hubs for business, which is why the ability to speak Mandarin is such a desirable trait amongst business graduates. The same situation applies to America, where their business and law schools are some of the most prestigious in the world. If you're a practical guy/gal and want to attend a university that is going to make your CV absolutely slaaaaaaayyyyy, then by all means apply for those ones!
4. Where will your current marks/academic standing take you?
I didn't want to include this one, but we gotta be real here. Exchange applications are based on your marks from your previous and current semesters, and since it can be very competitive to get into the top, popular universities around the world (University of Toronto, UCLA, University of Hong Kong). You will need a very high WAM or GPA to even be considered.
Your best bet is to contact/email your exchange coordinator, and based on your current marks, the universities that you are likely to gain a nomination and acceptance to.
(oh man I am really feelin' this image HAHAHA)
5. Does the university's reputation matter to a great extent?
This goes off of the above point. If you want to attend a university that has an international status as one of the killer diller business or medical schools, then you have no choice but to be the cream of the crop at your university with TOP marks. On the other hand, if you're not overly concerned about the university's reputation and you have other priorities, then you can...settle (I FEEL YA FEELZ MAN).
6. Set up a meeting with your exchange coordinator.
This is by far the most important tip I can give you - your exchange coordinator is going to your Messiah, your Jesus Christ, leading you to the light and haven of knowledge of all the partner universities you are considering (hopefully they won't end up crucified on a cross). Always make sure you have questions to ask if you have set up a meeting. Don't get agitated if they're taking more than one hour to respond to your email, because there are so many other emails from students JUST LIKE YOU that he/she has to respond to.
7. What lifestyle and recreation am I seeking?
Are you planning to study hard and bring home the High Distinctions and 4.0 GPA during exchange, or do you want to let loose and have a bit of fun? I definitely fall into the latter, but that's not saying that everyone does. I have a friend going away to Hong Kong who is hoping to find an internship whilst he studies to win EVERYTHING. However, I definitely do not want to stereotype and segregate people into those two groups - some people may want to work hard yet party harder ;) ;)
However, think about what you want to be doing in your leisure time. If you're keen to backpack all around Europe and experience the various cultures, then choose a university in Europe. Love national parks and snow sports? Canada for you then my friend! Based on your own interests in certain cultures and what they have to offer, you can definitely narrow down where you want to go.
8. What will be the cost?
Money. Need I say more? You have to consider the cost of living when you're going to certain countries, and how your own country's currency performs against other currencies. Also, check out if there are any scholarships that you can contend for, or any loans that you can take out.
I have taken out a government loan called the OS Help (other Australians you can check this out here; I will do a separate post if you want!) where I could take out $6000 a session to help me out with my expenses. Your university should definitely offer exchange scholarships, however, my guess is that MOST of them are based on either your academic performance or if you are financially disadvantaged.
However, I am not telling you to be a miser and not spend AT ALL - this is your exchange, so you really should invest in these experiences and making memories.
