My experience
I didn't want to finish Uni and not make the most of the opportunities on offer. Due to work and other commitments, a semester abroad was not an option. I then learned about short term experiences which ended up being the perfect solution for me!
How has the experience changed you?
Prior to leaving, I already considered myself quite independent but whilst traveling and studying abroad solo I realized the full extent of this, which was quite challenging at first. Learning to work with students from all over the world was also extremely valuable, even more so than the course content itself! The time was also a reminder to not take life too seriously - there really is so much to see and do in life. I will carry these with me through my personal, academic and professional life.
Favourite memory
Sounds 'basic' but it would have to be one night where I was sitting by the water on the Coast of Italy with fresh seafood and beautiful local wine. Certainly had one of those 'how good is life' moments!
Top tips
Regardless of where you go and what you choose to study in a short term experience what makes it is the people from all over the world. The things you can learn from people who have simply been raised in a different environment is truly outstanding - so definitely absorb as much of that as you can. Also - don't take yourself to seriously while you're doing it, you don't want to look back and wish you'd done things differently. Fitting as much in as possible is so worth being a bit tired!