A guide to things you need to know before you do your study abroad
Illustration by Sage Blackwell.
The preparation for my exchange was a lot harder than I anticipated. From getting my documents ready, to corresponding with the international university, following up with exchange advisors at UVic, and more, the list of things to do is endless.
So, I compiled a guide that will equip you for success as you plan your exchange adventure.
How much paperwork there is
For someone who really does not like doing paper work of any kind, this was not something I enjoyed, or was ready for.
Before you decide and apply to your exchange university, you must first apply to UVic for exchange. The deadline for the next fall term, or fall and spring term, is Feb. 1.
The application consists of a list of courses you would like to take at the exchange university, a budget sheet, a statement of intent, and reference letters. It is good to get a head start on all of these, because they take a lot longer than you would think.
It is especially difficult to find a course list on the exchange university’s website — most websites are not structured like UVic’s, and I found European websites are especially hard to follow.
Then, if you’re accepted by UVic, you apply to the exchange university. After receiving an acceptance offer (yay!), you have to register with the exchange university prior to receiving your acceptance letter. This is all standard procedure.
Depending on where you are going on exchange, you will have to apply for either a short-term or long-term visa. This process can vary depending on your destination, but if you’re going anywhere in Europe — I can really only speak for France — know that their procedure takes ages, and is complicated. I found that their websites often do not make sense; it took me weeks to figure out why the French visa website was not accepting my ID photo, with little to no help from whomever I was emailing.
What to pack
This might be controversial, but don’t bring anything you don’t already wear regularly.
Take it from me, who brought two full suitcases of clothes that I thought I would wear all the time.
I know you’re going through your closet, and thinking that this random shirt you thrifted three years ago would look spectacular on a sunny day in Australia — news flash, it won’t. You will never reach for it.
Instead, bring clothes that you wear on a day-to-day basis, and don’t fill up your suitcase all the way, because you will likely buy new clothes wherever you go.
How to prepare yourself mentally
The days leading up to exchange are quite stressful. As you pack, say goodbye to friends, and family, finish up the final paperwork, it can be very emotionally exhausting.
I would encourage you to get a head start on all of this — finish paperwork two weeks before, pack a week before, and arrange a party with your loved ones the week of.
Pro tip: let someone else organize the party for you.
It’s going to feel like you’re packing your entire life in one or two suitcases — which you are. But don’t worry about packing the little things like shampoo or floss. You can buy all of that at your exchange destination.
The hour before you’re on the plane, or even when you’re on the plane, can be very overwhelming. Remember to take care of yourself, give yourself grace and patience, and allow yourself to feel the emotions. It is all going to be ok, and you’re going to have the best time of your life once you get into the groove of things.
That the school vibe will be completely different
Every university has its own distinct culture. UVic is known for its Petch Fountain, lying in the Quad when it’s sunny, oat fudge bars, and rowing.
Don’t be surprised if the culture at your exchange university is completely different. At some universities, the exchange program students have an easier time getting integrated, whereas at others, it is harder to make friends.
They will likely have different activities, their own form of Clubs and Course Union days, and different snacks. Just embrace it, and go with the flow. Though I’m not a “go with the flow” type of person, I learned to have a lot of patience with myself. Rather than micromanaging, I allowed my life on exchange to fall into place, and everything worked out better than I imagined.
There you have it folks. Hopefully, this list helps you prepare for your exchange. And if you need any help, I found the exchange advisors at UVic really helpful and understanding — don’t hesitate to reach out to them (they heard from me a lot). You got this!
