Countless memories
From meeting friends from all over the world to making new memories, Haley Doig loved her student exchange at Universitat Ramon Llull in Barcelona.
Haley Doig
Why I chose my host uni:
They’re specialised in my degree and have a great programme for international students.
How I found applying to my host uni:
The application process is unfortunately quite tortuous. Applying for the university itself is pretty straight forward, but choosing your courses is another story. Make sure to leave plenty of time for this long, agonising process.
In terms of documents, you’ll need to send your passport to the embassy of Spain in Wellington, so make sure you have your passport renewed and your visa application sent with plenty of time.
How I found learning in a different academic system:
Learning in a new academic system wasn’t hard to adapt to. You get to learn their teaching methods and grading styles quite quickly, but make sure to ask questions and email your teachers if you need help. They’re super accommodating to international students, so don’t hesitate to ask.
What I gained from this experience:
Friends and connections from all over the world, maturity and independence, financial awareness, competence in another language, confidence and so many memories.
Top tips for other students
- Say YES to as much as possible. You’re only going to be on a student exchange once in your life, so don’t rob yourself of opportunities to go out, make friends and experience something new
- There are times you may feel homesick, especially when you’re first settling in. Remember to keep yourself busy and surround yourself with people.
- I used a Google Sheet to budget, keep track of my spending and plan for my travels after the semester. I’d update this every week to make sure I was staying within my budget
- Don’t be afraid to spend money! As long as you’re sensible about it, go on that weekend trip, splurge on a nice dinner, buy that 5th matcha latte of the day because money comes and goes but experiences stay with you forever
About Haley and her student exchange
AUT degree:
Bachelor of Communication Studies in Journalism
Host uni:
Universitat Ramon Llull
Host country:
Spain
5 favourite things
Favourite place in my host city:
Parc de la Ciutadella because there was always something happening; events, people dancing and playing music, attractions to look at etc
Best dish/food I tried:
Patatas bravas! With sangria of course
Most useful thing I packed to take with me:
My ski jacket! Although it’s not particularly cold in Barcelona, I travelled around Europe after my exchange, where I most definitely needed a warm jacket
Favourite thing about my host uni:
The seminar for exchange students as we went on lots of trips, which was a great opportunity to learn about Barcelona and build friendships with other international students
Best trip I took outside of my host city:
Porto in Portugal with my roommate