Last semester, I fulfilled my long-time dream of studying abroad. My time at The Australian National University was definitely the highlight of my university experience (so far) but it wasn't totally worry-free.

I questioned if I could afford it, or if studying abroad meant I’d have to delay my graduation.

Luckily, there was (and is!) support. There are great resources and the Go Global advisors were able to answer most of my questions. Even better, they made me feel like I wasn’t the only one with these concerns.

Homesickness

For me, Australia was my first time far away from home. It only really hit me after my 14 hour flight as I was unpacking in my unfurnished studio: I was in a strange city halfway across the world and didn’t know a single person.  

Credit transfer and delaying graduation

Originally, I wanted to graduate in four years because I thought that was the norm. I later realized my degree wasn’t a race  – it’s value comes from the experiences I have, not the amount of time I take.

That being said, it is totally possible to graduate on time with a little planning and help from your academic advisor. I enrolled in courses from the list of pre-approved courses for my partner university and submitted a credit transfer form for the courses that weren’t. Credit transfers can be confusing, but the advisors help make the process easier.

If you’re really concerned about it, you can take part in Summer Abroad or Global Seminar, and study internationally without interrupting your course load during the winter session.

Language or Cultural Differences

Being in a completely new environment can be daunting, and that’s why the Go Global pre-departure sessions exist. They connect you with other UBC students attending your partner university, or students who’ve returned from the same school. For me, going to Australia wasn’t too much of a culture shock, but it was still new. The pre-departure sessions helped get me in the right mindset to make the most of my time abroad.

Money

Finances may be one of the most common concerns for students – myself included. But I discovered I had more financial support than I expected.  The $1,000 Go Global Award, along with a part-time job I found on exchange meant I didn’t have to live off of instant ramen alone.

Take advantage of the financial support UBC offers and book an appointment with an ESP for one-on-one help with financial planning or build a budget plan – and avoid stressing about money while overseas.

You can also explore scholarships and bursaries available to you from either UBC or your partner university.

What’s stopping you?

Going on exchange wasn’t about finding myself, but discovering I was here all along – I just needed a new perspective to realize it. Concerns about going abroad are normal, and questions are always welcome.

Connect with a Go Global advisor and start setting your mind at ease. Also, check out the personal student reports for more practical advice and to connect with UBC students who’ve been abroad.