Student exchange stories
Find out what UCA students said about their study abroad experiences...
"Erasmus is not simply a load of fun as most people tend to think (but it is fun too of course). It's an exercise in adaptation, open mindedness, social skills and independence. The toughest part definitely was trying to break the language barrier, which for the first 2 months feels just like the equivalent of kicking a stone wall. By the time you finally manage to break through it and start making yourself comfortable in the place the Erasmus period is almost over and you're faced with a string of farewell nights, saying bye to the people who for the last 5 months made your Erasmus experience worthwhile" BA (Hons) Illustration student |
"Being able to experience how other institutions teach the same subject was eye opening. Knowing that once my studies were over I could explore Canada and the US properly was really exciting. Studying in a new country is inspiring for your work. The people that we've met are all really friendly and go out of their way to help you." BA (Hons) Graphic Design student |
"I really enjoyed my experience at NABA in Milan, the course was not what I expected but other students here helped me understand it, to beat obstacles and make the most of it. It was fun meeting new people and discovering a different culture, and of course living away from home helped me become more confident. I also made so many new friends, people here are very nice and I hope to keep in contact with them for future visits." BA (Hons) Fashion Promotion student |
"Studying abroad at the Maryland Institute College of Art was an unforgettable experience. I would encourage all students to take a semester studying abroad. Not only do you learn new skills and have opportunities that are not available at home you are learning about another culture. During my experience I discovered how I feel about my art, what styles I would like to pursue as I go forward and more than anything...there's no place like home." BA (Hons) Animation Arts student |
"This experience has given me the confidence to venture outside of my comfort zone and experience new cultures and live in different places, I have matured through this experience and I intend to live in another country in the near future to fuel my passion of travel and love of new cultures." BA (Hons) Advertising & Brand Communication student |
"I've had a really great time. Meeting other exchange students and Japanese students and seeing how the University structure their courses. I learned a lot and I am now more focused on my studies at UCA. I have also experienced the Japanese life-style full on which has opened my eyes to a very different culture, a culture that I have really enjoyed." BA (Hons) Three Dimensional Design (Metalwork & Jewellery) student |
"Very enjoyable to live in a different country and experience a different culture. I feel my artwork has improved and benefited from the experience. I am now more confident. Interesting to see how art can be taught in different ways." BA (Hons) Illustration student |
"This experience has expanded my interests, it is an excellent inspiration and very good source for my future projects. Changing environment gave me a lot of enthusiasm to continue my work and enjoy my studies." BA (Hons) Fine Art student |
"This program has cemented the fact that I can change my environment, I don't have to stay were I am. You won't only make friends with the people from the Institution you go to but also other foreign Erasmus Students, they often provide the best insights. There's no correct path, but taking Erasmus is probably the most rewarding" BA (Hons) Architecture student |
"I had an amazing time, the teaching system is very different and it was a great experience and taught me a lot. If a chance like this were to come my way again, I wouldn't hesitate. It was a stressful prep, but well worth it." BA (Hons) Graphic Design student |
"Amsterdam is the perfect city for me and I can easily imagine myself returning to live here. It gave me a second chance at being a student- meeting new people, new experiences new lifestyle. An experience I will never regret. A great learning experience academically, personally and culturally!" BA (Hons) Fashion student |
"I have enjoyed every second of my exchange program in United States. MICA has a wide variety of courses for students to take on. It is open to any major therefore the student can take courses that they have interest in. The level of organization is incredible and professors are very encouraging in the process of development of ideas. I have made new friends that I am still in touch and hopefully will meet again. I strongly advise students to make an effort in filling the application forms and let themselves experience the world around them." BA (Hons) Photography (ContemporaryPractice) student |
"This was the best thing I could have done in my university experience" BA (Hons) Advertising & Brand Communication student |
"During the period of five months I had an opportunity to participate in an Erasmus program, an exchange arranged with (UIC), ESQUAR School of Architecture in Barcelona. This unforgettable experience has broadened my horizons, in an architectural field as well as personal development. Not only have I become familiar with different teaching attitude, which gave me a fresh and international perspective on studied subject but also have I experienced cultural diversities, met international students and improved my linguistic skills. " BA (Hons) Architecture student |
"Being taught in a different way by a different institution broadens your education. Starting semester 4 in another country refreshes the desire to study The whole experience has been amazing and is worth the stress and financial cost. Studying in a new environment gives you more perspective on where you stand within the industry" BA (Hons) Graphic Design student |
"Exciting, Interesting. Understanding other people's way of design. Opening up to other cultural aspects." BA (Hons) Architecture student |
"An eye opening experience. The time of my life. A new found love for living/working abroad. Made Life long friends." MA Photography student |
"Exciting and unique, living in Amsterdam is amazing, but university is hard and different to UCA and it's harder to be self motivated." BA (Hons) Fashion Promotion & Imagery student |
"AMAZING-EDUCATIONAL-UNIMAGINABLE-UNFORGETTABLE" BA (Hons) Fashion Promotion student |
"I enjoyed my study abroad experience a lot. The receiving institution was very welcoming and helpful. The classes are on a high level and the teachers are very professional. Although there were some communication problems or rather language problems because mainly all the people spoke Catalan not Spanish." BA (Hons) Graphic Design student |
"Experience. Adventure. Independence. New friends." BA (Hons) Photography (Contemporary Practice) student |
"I have made new friends. I have learnt new things. I have learnt more about myself. It was amazing!" BA (Hons) Graphic Design student |
"It is eye opening, offers different cultures and views on design and key interests and allows you to have an adventure in your chosen country" BA (Hons) Design, Branding & Marketing student |
