Motivation
I have always wanted to study overseas, particularly in England.
Personal Development
I explored so many places across the south-west of England that I normally wouldn't have visited on a regular trip and I also made friends with people from so many different countries.
Academic Development
The marking at Exeter seems much more strict - at the beginning of my course we were told that our teacher rarely gives a grade above 90% and that a score like that is for work that could be published without any changes. This was really different to UQ and I did struggle with the idea that it was practically impossible to receive 100%.
Professional Development
I was living in a flat with 7 other people and had to share a very limited kitchen so this really helped me develop my communication and cooperation skills. I also have never travelled before so I was responsible for organising everything, which allowed me to develop my independence and initiative.
Costs
Flights: AUD$5,035
Program (including accommodation): AUD$5,460
Additional travel and accommodation: AUD$625
Eating out was very expensive so I recommend cooking at home as many nights as possible. The cost of living crisis in the UK is even worse than Australia and the exchange rate is awful so I don't recommend comparing the cost to AUD because it won't be fun!
Funding
The funding was extremely vital since I paid for this trip myself without any loans or help from my parents. Even though I applied early, I received the grant very late so I used it for spending money and additional travel. I would recommend looking at paying the grants to students earlier in future so it can help contribute towards bigger expenses such as flights or accommodation.
Accommodation
The first part of my trip in London was sharing with someone else from the program. I was very lucky that I got along well with my roommate but I did hear stories from others about roommates that weren't great. In Exeter, it was 8 people in a flat but we had our own room and bathroom which is amazing and I wouldn't have done an exchange if this wasn't an option.
Highlight
The highlight of my experience was finding an amazing group of friends very early on and sharing this experience with them. We had some great times exploring England together but I also equally enjoyed the fun nights we shared in the flat together.
Advice/Top Tips
Start saving early, don't be afraid to do solo trips away from the group,
