UK – Darcee
Student: Darcee
Course: Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Laws
Program: Trimester Exchange T2 2024
I can easily say that choosing to go study a trimester abroad at the University of Leeds was the best decision I have ever made. Leeds has a large student population which meant that it was always easy to find things to do and the university is situated very close to the city centre. The University has a large international student population with many of those students also on a study abroad program which made it very easy to make friends. I joined the Equestrian Society which also provided an excellent opportunity to meet more people, join Wednesday socials and compete for the university. I really enjoyed all the classes I took and found the lecturers and seminar leaders to be knowledgeable and supportive.
How did you spend your weekends?
The weekends were great for travelling and exploring. Almost every weekend I either went on day trips or stayed a couple nights in England or abroad. Some of my favourite destinations in England included Durham, Cambridge, Liverpool and York. Leeds is situated to the Northeast of Manchester and has excellent links to most of the UK (London is only a two hours away by train). Leeds also has its own airport, although it does not go to all destinations. Manchester airport is about 1.5hours away and flies to most places.
Did you go on any memorable trips to explore your host country or maybe a nearby country?
My favourite place I visited whilst on my study abroad was up to Edinburgh. I liked it so much that I went back later in the trimester. The first time I went with two of my international student friends (from Germany and Canada) and we took the train which is about a three-hour journey. We were fortunate to arrive into Edinburgh whilst it was snowing which made it look even more beautiful. My highlights from this trip included the Edinburgh Christmas Market, climbing Arthur’s Seat, taking photos at the 'One Day Steps' and bumping into the Australian Rugby Team on the way to our hostel.
The second time I went up to Edinburgh was for New Years. This time I went with three Australian friends, and we took the five-hour FlixBus (which was not actually too bad) and met up with a few more friends once we arrived. Unfortunately, the Hogmanay Street Party was cancelled but we still had a great time at different pubs, exploring Dean Village and eating out.
What was one thing that challenged you?
I found the most challenging aspect of studying abroad to be the first couple of days when you arrive. Unfortunately, as Australians it takes roughly 24 hours on a plane to get to the UK. Combining jet lag, arriving into the opposite season and not knowing anyone or many people, it can be disorientating and lonely to begin with. My recommendation would be to make the most of all the welcome events on offer such as the Freshers’ Week parties and the Clubs and Societies Fair. I think the other thing that is important to know is that most other study abroad students also feel the same way at the beginning of exchange.