The exchange experience: Adventures abroad

The urban jungles of the United States, the bustling cities of France, and the scenic landscape of Japan. 

Such countries bring to mind a setting that is a far cry from living in the Philippines. Yet, these are the places that certain students, in search of exciting, new experiences, choose to brave. Going on exchange is a daunting step to take for students, one filled with uncertain anxiety, but also one that can prove unforgettable, invaluable, and downright exciting. 

Those who take this journey return home with stories, some disappointing and some fascinating. One thing’s for sure, they never return the same, but how exactly does a term away from home change a person?

Leaving the country

Traveling and going on exchange, whether to study or for an internship, is highly tempting. What with new places to visit, cultures to explore, and people to interact with, the smell of potential adventure is indeed enticing. However, new journeys come with their fair share of apprehensions, difficulties, and fears.

From losing one’s passport to the dreaded cases of loneliness, there are a myriad of possible problems. Having a place to stay during the duration of the term is a prime and pragmatic example. Tiffany Go, an incoming fourth year student, shares that this was her only reservation before her trip to Lille, France, two terms ago.

“I was not as independent as some people before going on exchange so it was a big problem for me looking for accommodations. I was not used to doing everything without prior information so this whole exchange was pretty much a big leap.” Her excitement, however, didn’t give her much time to worry about anything more, and who can blame her?

After the bags are packed and the flight gets booked, the next phase is one’s departure. As with anyone, leaving loved ones to travel away from home could stir different feelings. “I was both excited and scared. As my flight day drew closer my excitement was replaced with fear because I really had no idea what to expect,” shares Janet Ong, a recent graduate who is currently pursuing her Juris Doctorate degree, on leaving for Taiwan last September.

Shock and awe   

Adjusting is definitely tough; culture shock is an effect everyone goes through when a new experience arises. Going on exchange is but one in a long list of situations where one must brace for shocks. Janet reminisces that her first week in Taiwan was quite the challenge as she was not yet familiar with the norms of living in the island nation. However, this was temporary, as her putting herself out there got her going in a short amount of time.

University life abroad, as opposed to the Philippines, may differ. This further compounds to the “When in Rome” conundrum. Not only does one have to be able to get used to living independently, one must also adapt to a different academic landscape. “I found that my school there (IESEG) was more internationalized. You don’t just learn academics. You learn about the different cultures because there were just so many international students there,” Tiffany shares. 

The experiences one does get from these trips is nothing short of special. These, along with the lessons in and out of the foreign classroom, make the program whole. Tiffany recalls an unforgettable memory she had during her stay, getting lost in Switzerland. Though she didn’t speak the language, she managed to find her way back to the hostel she was staying at. Now, if that doesn’t scream adventure, Dora the Explorer might be more your speed. 

Lessons learned

When everything is said and done, exchange participants who spend a term away from home do not return from their adventure with just stories and experiences – they come back an entirely different person. The things they learn go beyond academic classes and practical lessons. Students gain a new perspective on things and become stronger, more open people over their term abroad. And as exchange participants apply what they learned in their time overseas to their life and work back at home, it becomes clear that exchange is an invaluable tool for both academic learning and emotional growth.

According to Janet, her time in Taiwan allowed for personal growth. “I wouldn’t have much courage now if I was not exposed to the different kinds of situations that I do not normally have here… I had to understand and be patient with other people since we all come from different cultural backgrounds. It was a great learning experience. I was able to correct my preconceived notions about other people and appreciate them even better.”

“You get to learn to be more efficient and fast. Life as an exchange student consisted of budgeted accommodations and careful planning,” shares Tiffany, who, in her short time overseas, became stronger and more responsible. “I’ve become more fearless and confident about myself. Life just seems a lot better after France.”

Exchange is something fun and exciting, and the experience of immersing yourself in another country’s culture is something a lot of people dream of. However, it’s only when participants bring back the knowledge and life lessons gained from their term abroad that the essence of exchange shows through.

Opportunities

Did any of this tickle your thrill-bone? Well, fret not, as there are a number of ways to be informed and apply for an adventure abroad.  AIESEC DLSU, for one, is a student organization under CSO that is part of a larger, international organization that seeks to send both undergraduate and graduate students on exchange. It also helps to constantly check your DLSU e-mails for any surprises. Checking the International Center’s Facebook page may not be a bad idea either. 

Still not convinced? Tiffany shares, “Just go for it. You’ll have a lot of doubts about going, but seriously. Just forget about that and go. You won’t regret it. Just keep an open mind and be aware of your surroundings.”

Now get out of here and fly, Lasallian!