Student Profile
Name: Maya Gogniat
Major: English (with a minor in Ancient Greek and Roman Studies)
Exchange University: The University of Kent, England
Advice: “It was warmer than I thought it’d be so I didn’t need an extra thick winter coat. It was also too windy for my umbrella. Bring two pound coins for the bus, it’s cheaper than the credit card or app for public transportation.”
QUESTIONS
Why did you decide to travel abroad?
I had always wanted to travel outside of Canada and tear my limits when put into a completely new environment. I also love seeing and experiencing new cultures and foods
Why did you choose to study at The University of Kent? How did you learn about it?
I chose this institution because they had the most affordable accommodations in England, I liked their website, they had the Greek class I needed for my minor, I liked the courses and student engagement activities, and I liked how quickly they would answer any questions I had. I’d never travelled outside of Canada before, and I wanted to start in a country where I could speak the language. I was also curious to see how different England would be since England and Canada are both considered Western culture countries.
What was your experience like?
It was similar to Trent in terms of student engagement, especially since it also had pretty small class sizes and allowed for better student-teacher communication. I took 3 courses, which was the maximum I could take.
What did you find was the most challenging while abroad?
Food wasn’t a problem for me - although I did eat a lot of cheese and onion flavoured things - I lived in a house on campus where I could cook if I wanted. But I think it was remembering the currency exchange and how much more expensive things were because of it.
Were you able to travel?
I travelled after the term was done, I went to Brighton then in France: Boulogne-sur-Mer, Amiens, Pierrefonds, Paris then back to England for London. My favourite was probably Pierrefonds - it was such a cute little town - and my least favourite was probably London - it was very crowded because of the marathon. I would suggest researching where you want to go and the public transportation options and seeing if there are any visitor deals (like for a tourist Oyster card you need to apply for before you travel to London).
In your opinion, what would you say are the benefits of studying abroad?
Personally, I got to travel and experience new things, grow my understanding of another culture and people, and become a little less shy and meet new people.
Did you live in residence or off-campus, and how was that experience?
I lived on residence in Parkwood Houses, and it was a good experience. All my housemates were international students and were all super friendly and helpful.
What advice would you offer a student who is thinking about studying at your host institution and country?
Research the country you’re going to and check the exchange rate, plan any trips ahead of time and make a budget - it is better to overestimate spending than underestimate it.
What was one of your favourite memories from your time abroad?
I really liked France, and French food. I went to a great Korean restaurant in Paris. There was also a pub in London with good fish and chips.
If someone told you they were thinking about studying abroad but weren’t convinced they should, what would you tell them?
It’s worth it.