UK – Katherine
Student: Katherine
Course: Bachelor of Education (Primary)
Program: Trimester Exchange T2 2023
Norwich is an underrated city in the East of England and truly is a hidden gem. The city itself is loaded with beautiful buildings, cathedrals, coffee shops and one that is rich in history. The Norwich Market which was one of my favourite ways to spend a part of my day, is the largest and oldest outdoor market in England. It is full of fresh fruit and veg, vintage clothing stalls, plant shops and a variety of different food stalls to try. The university culture was so much fun, there was always something happening, either something that is a part of the university or something the town has put on, you could never be bored here.
During my semester at UEA, I made valuable friendships that I will hold for the rest of my life, through my classes, clubs and my flatmates who become my closest friends. I joined a mountaineering sports club and had the opportunity to take trips across England to Peak District and Snowdonia to name a few. These trips were over the weekend and was so much fun, singing in the van on the way, creating memories and friendships with people all over the world and seeing the beautiful hikes and mountains of England that I would not have had the opportunity to without the club. Nights spent at the lecture theatres watching movies with different groups and socials to morning walks at Eaton Park, I yearn for more of these days. I also had the opportunity to travel during study times or my days off, to beautiful and breathtaking European destinations but also hop over to London for the day or weekend for a less than two-hour train ride, the exploring opportunities are endless.
The lecturers and advisers are very supportive and welcoming making you feel a part of the university community. There was a multitude of activities, social opportunities, sports clubs, and societies that there will be a group out there that will make you feel a part of community that will be hard to leave, but grateful you got to experience this as you will have made friends and memories for life. The subject choices were great, and my classes were insightful, hands on and fun, that provided me with different knowledge and outlooks on education and teaching that will enrich my future teaching career. There are many accommodation options and one with an ensuite that provided me with a little home away from home. The library is a fantastic space to study with a great view of the campus (especially beautiful in Autumn) and the many café options for the perfect pick me up in the middle of your study days.
Overall, completing exchange at University of East Anglia is a once in a lifetime experience and the amount of personal growth that I have seen within myself is credited to this experience, one that I would recommend to everyone at university.