{"id":54439,"date":"2025-08-21T12:03:01","date_gmt":"2025-08-21T02:03:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.latrobe.edu.au\/mylatrobe\/?p=54439"},"modified":"2025-08-26T11:41:29","modified_gmt":"2025-08-26T01:41:29","slug":"my-amazing-semester-as-an-exchange-student-in-the-uk","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.latrobe.edu.au\/mylatrobe\/my-amazing-semester-as-an-exchange-student-in-the-uk\/","title":{"rendered":"My amazing semester as an exchange student in the UK"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em>Salma Salaat is a La Trobe University student pursuing a double degree in Biomedicine and Business (Management). This is her account of her semester in the UK as an exchange student.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I had never lived away from home before, so I saw the exchange program as the perfect opportunity to step outside my comfort zone, travel to a new country, and learn more about myself. It definitely delivered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The early days<\/strong> <strong>as an exchange student<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I spent my semester abroad at the University of Leicester in the UK. The university\u2019s Study Abroad team made the transition smooth. They were incredibly supportive, helping me before I even landed and continuing to check in after I arrived. I lived in student accommodations where the residential team hosted regular social events, which made it easier to meet people and slowly ease my homesickness. I began to feel at home once I connected with other international and local students who were going through similar experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Adjusting to a new lifestyle<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, it wasn\u2019t all smooth sailing in the beginning. I missed home, especially not having my car, and had to learn how to navigate the public transport system. Everything from ordering food <em>(Menulog instead of DoorDash!)<\/em> to university systems (you have to scan your student ID every class to mark attendance) took some getting used to. But every challenge helped me grow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Make the most of the experience<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the best parts of my exchange was travelling. I visited London, Birmingham, Manchester, and explored Leicester. A personal highlight was visiting Old Trafford Stadium. I\u2019ve supported Manchester United since I was five, so walking through the stadium was a dream come true. London was incredible too; there\u2019s so much to see that I know I\u2019ll be back again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Academically and personally, the exchange pushed me in the best ways. I became more confident, independent, and open-minded. It also broadened my view of global education opportunities, especially when it comes to thinking about potential graduate or medical schools in the UK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Thinking of applying? Do your research<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One piece of advice I\u2019d give to future exchange students: do your research. Look into social clubs and student events before you arrive. Leicester had hundreds of clubs and societies, and Freshers Week was a great way to learn about them. I also met amazing people through my flatmates and by attending the local mosque.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Thank you La Trobe<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re considering an exchange, go for it. It\u2019s a challenge, yes, but the personal growth, unforgettable memories, and life lessons are so worth it. Apply for every grant and scholarship you can. I was lucky to be supported by the Ismail Study Abroad Program, and I\u2019m so grateful to the La Trobe Business School for their support throughout my journey.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Salma Salaat is a La Trobe University student pursuing a double degree in Biomedicine and Business (Management). 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