The experience of a lifetime

Sam Dahlberg says going on a student exchange to America changed his life and he loved seeing so much of the US while he was at San Diego State University.

Sam Dahlberg

Why I choose my host uni:

I decided to go to San Diego State University (SDSU) because both the city and college had so much to offer. Whether it was going to a basketball game, trying different fast foods or exploring a new place in San Diego, there was always something to do. I had always wanted to travel to America, and studying in San Diego was a perfect opportunity to experience American college life while getting to see so much of the States.

How I found applying to my host uni:

The process of applying at SDSU was pretty straightforward, but there are a lot of steps you have to go through and documents required, including bank statements, immunisation records, a statement of intent and a transcript. Acquiring my J1 Visa, DS-2019 and going to the embassy was a particularly lengthy but simple process. It’s important that you’re on top of everything during the process, so you don’t miss any deadlines. The help provided both by Kirsten at AUT and SDSU’s international department was excellent, and I found it easy to reach out if I needed assistance or advice.

Enrolling in classes at SDSU was also a bit stressful as there are limited spaces, so it’s crucial that you identify and apply for the classes you need as early as possible.

How I found learning in a different academic system:

The academic system at SDSU was very different to AUT. Although I was frequently completing homework and quizzes, as well as exams and assignments every 4 or 5 weeks, the workload was very manageable.

The professors I had at SDSU were very passionate about what they taught, which made going to class engaging. Every professor runs a different class, so it’s important to check their reviews before enrolling.

Remember, you’re also there to have fun and enjoy your surroundings, so don’t be solely focused on your studies.

What I gained from this experience:

Going on a student exchange to America changed my life. It allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and immerse myself in a new environment where I grew in so many ways. I gained a variety of new perspectives through my experiences abroad, and I've become more determined to travel and see more of the world (particularly the US). On top of this, I gained so much independence living away from home, and I’ll carry these valuable skills throughout life.

I’m extremely grateful and fortunate enough to have developed such meaningful and close friendships with various people. I lived with six American roommates and had a close group of international friends from across the world, and I endeavour to visit those people one day. These friendships allowed for so many unique experiences, like a camping trip, spring break in Cabo and Coachella. Those friendships will last forever.

I strived to make the most of my experience by doing 4 weeks of travel around the country at the end of my exchange. This road trip was one of the highlights of my entire experience and I got to visit 8 states and see incredible places like the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Boston and New York.

I was so intimidated by the thought of doing an exchange at first, and after doing it, I’d say to anyone that you just have to go for it! It truly is the experience of a lifetime.