Go Global like Rebecca

Hi, I’m Rebecca. During my History degree, I did a year abroad in New Brunswick, Canada and it was the most amazing experience I have ever had. My favourite memory from the experience was the trip I took with my friends to Banff National Park and Vancouver. The beauty of the landscapes was so incredibly beautiful.

When studying at UoB, there are over 300 universities around the world to choose from to complete a year abroad in. It’s an incredible experience that I would encourage all students with any interest to take part in.  

After I returned home from my year abroad, I became a Gold Global Ambassador to support students interested in international study opportunities.  

Working as an Ambassador at the Go Global Fair now seems like a surreal blur – the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. The event was laid out as a miniaturised world as around the room, tables represented the countries you could travel to. The entire Great Hall was filled to the brim with people who were so passionate about their home countries and their exchange countries. 

My top tip for the whole event would be to visit country tables even if you don’t think you’re necessarily interested in them. The country or university you end up going to won’t define your experience. Your year abroad is what you make it – push aside any preconceived notions about a country. This is your opportunity to learn about all the opportunities available to you. The beauty of the year abroad experience is meeting new people, studying at another university, and getting the opportunity to travel. Wherever you end up in the world, you will have an unforgettable experience.  

The benefits of completing a period of study abroad have been well researched. In comparison to a student who doesn’t go abroad during their degree, you are more likely to get a 1st or 2:1 degree and less likely to be out of work after graduation. So, come down to the Go Global Fair with an open mind and learn about the hundreds of different opportunities available to you. And maybe, take a leap and apply for somewhere you did not previously consider.  

Finally, my year abroad was incredible, but the university offers a vast range of experiences.  If a year abroad is not something that interests you, but you would like to participate in an international opportunity during your degree, there are options to study on the Dubai campus, complete summer schools or even work and volunteer internationally so talk to the Go Global Team about the other short-term opportunities available too.