Academic Exchange
“ZHAW’s hands-on approach to engineering and computer science learning was an incredible experience that blended theory with real-world application. The sizes created a supportive learning environment where I could engage more directly with professors and peers. Beyond academics, I had the chance to explore new cultures, make lifelong friendships, and develop personally and professionally. I highly recommend an exchange semester to any student looking for growth and a global perspective.”
"I studied psychology at Fudan University and had an incredible experience. From the application process to orientation and throughout the program, Fudan University has been extremely supportive. They answer questions promptly and patiently, which made the whole process smooth and stress-free.
There were so many fun activities, like making dumplings and ice-breaking games, which made me feel very welcome. I love how York University and Fudan University are partners—this is truly a treasure. The professors were kind, approachable, and very knowledgeable, which made learning both enjoyable and inspiring.
Shanghai itself is amazing—a city with rich culture, incredible food, and beautiful sights. I highly recommend this exchange program to other students. It’s a wonderful opportunity to grow academically, socially, and culturally."
“At the beginning of the semester, a group chat for all students that came from outside Germany was created. The school, Bauhaus University, also organized a lot of events for us to partake in to get used to the country. We were taken on local hikes and even to other cities. The group chat we had were also great for organizing meetups. We were able to share our experiences and differences between Germany and our home country.
The professors I had were nice. I had a lot of creative freedom to do what I wanted for my projects, within the requirements. One course involved collaboration with a distillery which was an amazing opportunity for product design. There was an exhibition at the end of the semester that allowed us to share our projects with not just the school, but people from all over Weimar.
The food was great and different from what I normally have in Canada. There was a lot of different bread and they were all fresh. A lot of street food were wurst, which were quite good. There were a lot of cafes and restaurants that serve a variety of cuisine, which I really liked since I could get pretty much anything I really wanted.
I would recommend bringing an adapter. Germany has different outlets and buying one there can be pricey. Germany also has a different voltage output, It’s also good to bring any documents like the acceptance letter. I would also say getting a travel sim or roaming plan is nice as not everyone can speak English. Other items like kitchenware or blankets can be bought. My student housing sold blankets for $64. There’s a lot of free stuff you can find in free stores or online too.
Be aware that you will need to register with the city and apply for a residence permit. These things can take a while and require an appointment, so do it early. You will also need a bank account. Most services like at the bank or the immigration office are done in German. You may be able to find English speakers, but it’s not common. Professors also tend to be more direct when giving feedback, so don’t take it too personally.
If you want to learn more about other cultures and experiences, I definitely do recommend it. Not only do you get exposed to different perspectives, it also foster real-world skills and adaptability.”
"Studying at the University of York was an unforgettable experience. I joined a few societies and met people from all over the world, which made the social life really enjoyable. Academically, the courses were engaging and encouraged independent thinking. The food was a mix—some great local spots and pubs where I got to eat a lot of British classics. I’ve kept in touch with several friends I met there and built a solid network. I recommend bringing a good coat and comfortable shoes, and buying basics like bedding and toiletries there. Students should be prepared for cultural differences and more self-directed learning. I’d definitely recommend this experience, it helped me grow both personally and academically."
"I wanted to study English Literature and have always wanted to do a semester abroad in England. It is where many great writers come from and is very accessible and wonderful for travel. I learned how to manage new experiences and my social life with the work balance in a learning environment that was different from one I am used to. I also learned how to adapt to new cultures and be independent in a new city, as well as travel solo. I had to face adjusting to a different way of living being far from my friends and family, facing culture shock and home sickness. I had to go out of my comfort zone in order to try new things and put myself out there. I learned that joining societies and taking opportunities to meet new people and do something new is what will help you grow. I also learned that there are some things you have to face alone and if others aren't able to do it with you, do it anyways (if it is safe of course). I also learned that the learning style in the UK is very fast paced and independent, taking hours outside of classes to understand the readings and content."
"My experience at the University of Florence, Italy, was incredibly enriching. I became friends with local Tuscan students and was shown parts of Italy in a whole new light. With sights such as Piazzale Michaelangelo that overlooks the city of Florence, to the statue of David in the Uffizi, I was constantly amazed by the rich culture, history, and romance of the city. I partook in a research project held by the psychology department at the University of Florence. The MAT-toolkit project works to provide international students with the tools and resources for navigating university life. It was a pleasure to collaborate with colleagues completing their Phd at this university. With this project, I was also kept busy with my courses. to mention a few, I studied courses namely Environmental Anthropology, Archaeology in Conflict areas, Anthropology of Cultural Heritage and Urban Geography I: Theories and Methods. These courses were incredibly intriguing, interacting through fieldwork exercises and consistent class discussion; the school system spoke more to me than back home! The food in Italy was the best of the best, eating some of the most delicious and oldest recipes; I was always satisfied with the ingredients that went into the meal. This also helped me learn more about nutrition, as I began to learn how to cook. I established a network and maintained a connection with the people I met, such as close friends with who I am still in frequent contact, professors I bonded with, and friendly neighbours who were in my community. If I were recommending a student to bring with them is proper attire for the seasons and products, keep your suitcases free for when you come back (I used all my products up, and in turn, I packed tons of souvenirs). To purchase there, I recommend buying things you can't get back home, like food or certain products. Students should be aware of the culture shock that comes with travelling to Italy. For Florence specifically, the sidewalks are very small, be prepared to walk in the street, everyone stares (they just like to or they're judging), and there are tons of international students there. Be kind and considerate of the fact that you're the foreigner in this situation; learn the language or some helpful phrases, and be courteous. The touristification is so real there, you'll meet people from all over. I would certainly recommend this experience to other students, to broaden their perspective in the world, enhance their ability to be independent and compassionate and to be even more curious about the world. Italy was an incredible country to visit and stay in. I was very happy to be there."
"Academic life in Australia is very similar to Canadians. Levels of difficulty, courses content, assignments and student life is all very similar. People come to uni for class, then often leave right after. The main difference is the professor - student relationships. It is more formal than in Canada, for example, students call the professors by their first names and are always welcomed to share their personal experiences. Again, because of our countries similarities (both countries being colonized by the British), the food is also very similar (they love a good steak). Of course, in big cities there are regions with a bigger accent on Greek food, Chinese food, Korean food, Italian food. I have one good friend that I keep in contact with regularly, and many people I added on instagram to keep up with."
UEA integrated exchange students by having us participate in 'freshers' week, which is the British version of frosh. This resulted in us being friends with a lot of the local first years and navigating the new school/ social scene on somewhat equal grounds with the English students. It was a uniquely social experience because all of us exchange students were so eager to make friends that it just created a super warm and friendly environment. I think we all felt more open than usual thanks to this and it helped us to make friends with the local students as well. Almost every weekend a big group of us would go to the pub, or the club, or to the movies, and we'd often make dinner together.
One of my main extracurriculars was travelling. All of us international students did quite a bit of travelling together and we went to other parts of England like London, Oxford, and Cambridge as well as other countries like the Netherlands, Scotland, Wales, Denmark, and France during holidays and even over weekends. I was also part of UEA's running club, ballet society, and art society, which I found through the club fair at the beginning of the year. There was also a weekly life drawing class in the city centre with a 15 pound cover fee which I would sometimes attend.
It was a challenge to balance academic life with the social and 'vacation' aspects of the experience, and it was also difficult to adjust to the difference in academic accommodations offered at UEA vs at York. The course structures were quite different as well - most of my classes had two or three unmarked assignments and then a final culminating assignment at the end of the term worth 100% of the final grade, and it was a learning curve getting used to all of it. However, all of the courses I took I found quite interesting, especially when they included trips to cathedrals, castles or to galleries in London.
"I loved my semester abroad! It was the best thing I have ever done in my life. I think that everyone needs to live alone in a foreign country once in their life because it shows you about the different kinds of people there are in the world and it shows you a lot about yourself. If I could go back and do it all again, I would not change anything about my experience. I made life long friends that I will cherish in my heart. Before you go study abroad, 2 things I recommend, is to learn how to cook before you go, as well as take advantage of how close other countries are to travel to while you are there. Enjoy it while it lasts because it will FLY by!"
"My semester in South Korea was a transformative experience that went beyond academics and immersed me in a new culture. Although I didn’t join any official clubs, I met incredible people both in class and while traveling to places like the Philippines, Bali, Japan, and various regions within Korea. The master’s program courses were challenging but fulfilling, sparking thoughtful discussions that broadened my perspective on my field of study. I fell in love with the local cuisine, savoring everything from hearty stews to spicy street snacks, and those shared meals often led to meaningful conversations with classmates and other international students. I still keep in touch with many of the friends I made, swapping stories and tips even now. If you’re thinking about studying in Seoul, I wholeheartedly recommend embracing every part of the experience: the rigorous academics, the cultural surprises, and the spontaneous connections that make it truly unforgettable."
Partner Summer School
“I decided to go abroad in order to expand my knowledge of the Croatian language and culture, as this is where my parents are from. I had such an amazing time meeting people from all over - Germany, Switzerland, Peru, Ukraine and so many more! I also grew to be much more independent and resourceful, using these skills to travel to over ten different countries in the span of six months. Going abroad has definitely changed my perspective on life, I am not the same person I was before!”
"The European Summer Program in Lille, France was truly a wonderful experience! From the very first day of the program during the orientation session, I had the opportunity to connect with other international students from around the world. There were tons of social activities that were offered through the program such as International Night, group dinners, and day trips in the cities Brussels & Bruges in Belgium. The morning and afternoon electives I chose were taught completely in French and the class size was quite small which turned out to be very fun and engaging. My profs were amazing and really did the most to give us the best learning experience.
I have a strong background in French as my second language completing the Ontario French Immersion program for 12 years. This program gave me the opportunity to further improve my speaking and writing skills. It was such an amazing experience to immerse myself in European culture and learn the history, art, music, and language. Furthermore, the food was delicious! I loved the bakeries and restaurants with savoury French cuisine that lived up to the hype. I met the most amazing people that I became friends with quickly which made my study abroad experience better. They were not just travel buddies but we created a special bond that I know will last a long time and I still keep in contact regularly with some of them. My favourite memory was my weekend trip to Paris and going on the Seine River cruise at night. I had a blast and really got to immerse myself in the hustle and bustle of the streets and aimlessly walking around the city to visit many popular tourist spots such as the Montmartre Sacre Coeur Cathedral, Notre Dame, and of course...the Eiffel Tower!!!!
If you are thinking of whether or not to study abroad I would say...ABSOLUTELY DO IT!!! I experienced a new level of independence and growth being alone in a foreign country and learned how to overcome challenges quickly. I made life-long memories and met so many amazing people from around the world that became lasting friendships. It was truly an unforgettable time that I will cherish forever. Lille will always hold a special place in my heart."
"Studying abroad at the University of Leeds was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. The city itself is incredibly vibrant, full of students from all over the world, which made the social scene exciting and welcoming. I was able to meet people not only from the UK but also from Europe, Asia, and North America, and those friendships really shaped my experience. Nights out in Leeds are lively, but I also found myself just as happy spending time in smaller gatherings with friends at cafés or around campus.
Outside of classes, there was no shortage of extracurriculars. Leeds has countless societies and clubs for every interest, and joining them was the best way to meet people and experience the local culture. Whether it was sports, music, or casual social clubs, there was always something happening. Academically, Leeds challenged me in the best way. The teaching style was more independent compared to what I was used to, so I had to take more responsibility for managing my time and workload. This helped me grow as a student and prepared me for more advanced studies later on. The food culture was surprisingly diverse. Leeds has plenty of affordable restaurants, pubs, and international options, which kept things interesting. Grocery shopping was straightforward, and since most essentials were easy to find, I never felt like I was missing out on anything from home. I did establish a solid network of friends while abroad, and I’ve kept in touch with many of them even after leaving. The international community at Leeds makes it easier to build long-term connections, which I really value.
If I had to recommend what to bring, I’d say pack the basics like adapters, comfortable walking shoes, and some weather-ready clothes (it does rain a lot). Don’t overpack, because you can buy things like kitchen essentials, bedding, or even extra clothes at affordable shops once you’re there.
Students should be aware of cultural differences in both academics and daily life. The teaching style is more self-directed, and socially, the British style of interaction may feel more reserved at first, but people are friendly once you break the ice. Also, budgeting is important since the cost of living can add up quickly if you’re not careful with eating out or traveling. I would absolutely recommend this experience to other students. It’s a chance to grow personally, academically, and socially while exploring a new culture and environment. The memories, friendships, and lessons I gained at Leeds are things I’ll carry with me forever."
"Going to South Korea for summer school was one of the greatest opportunities I've ever had the chance of taking on! From the moment I arrived, everything felt so different; the people around me were speaking their native language, the food establishments sold meals I had never even heard of before, and the sun was hotter than I had ever felt. Commuting around wasn't too difficult, since many signs and train announcements were in English, so taking the subway to school and throughout Seoul worked best for me. The school I went to was Hanyang University, and my experience there was amazing! My teachers were kind and very helpful, and the classes were relatively small, so each lecture was interactive and engaging. Classes were four consecutive days a week, so I was on campus pretty often, trying new foods in the cafeteria or finding a new building to explore. I met many people in class and on campus, and everyone was really friendly. Since we were all in the same boat of experiencing a new country and school for the first time, people were always eager to meet others and set up gatherings to get food, go shopping, or find a fun attraction to see. I also joined a travel club at the school, where I met several Korean students and went on day trips to different parts of Korea (Danyang, Gwangju, Gongju, etc.). In my free time, I walked around a lot to take in new scenery everywhere I went, and I ate different Korean foods like K-BBQ, kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew), japchae, and tteokbokki!
Students going to South Korea should know this little fact -- 70% of the country is made up of mountains! Packing a pair of comfortable shoes is necessary, because majority of a person's day might be walking up- and downhill to get around. For anyone going in the summer, prepare to be sweating...a lot! The weather only got hotter each day, and with all the walking being done, remember to bring a fan and a pack of pocket tissues. Something else I'd recommend students to do is learn the basics of the Korean language because it'll make navigating around and communicating with people less nerve-racking. Lastly, for any student travelling abroad, regardless of the country, document the trip with a camera!
If you get the opportunity to study in a different country, take it! Doing school in a whole new environment is eye-opening and exciting, and you get to learn about new topics from a local/cultural perspective. It will be the highlight of your year, and an experience you'll get to talk about forever."
"Studying abroad in Lille, France was truly a life changing experience. From the moment I arrived, I found myself immersed in a completely new culture, surrounded by history, beauty, and the incredible warmth of people from all over the world. It was the first time I had lived on my own, and it pushed me to grow in ways I never imagined possible. One of the most incredible aspects of my time abroad was the friendships I made. I met students from all over the world Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond. Whether it was grabbing coffee in Vieux Lille, exploring new cities, or simply hanging out in the dorms, I was constantly surrounded by open minded, adventurous people. These weren’t just travel buddies, they became lifelong friends, and I still talk to many of them regularly today. We shared unforgettable memories that have created bonds that I truly believe will last a lifetime.
Academically, the experience was refreshingly personal and different than my big program at York (Kinesiology). The classes were small, which allowed for real, meaningful conversations with both professors and classmates. Discussions were engaging, and I always felt comfortable asking questions and expressing my thoughts. It felt like a genuine community of learners rather than just a classroom setting. The French approach to education challenged me in new ways, especially with critical thinking and collaboration. The food was unreal, every morning started with a fresh pastry from a local boulangerie across from my dorm. French cuisine lived up to the hype from rich cheeses and decadent desserts to cozy bistro meals and farmers’ market discoveries. One of the best parts of being in Lille was how easy it was to travel. I took trips to Paris, Normandy, Brussels, Bruges,Ypres, and Amsterdam, each destination offering something different. These side trips enriched my experience and helped me appreciate the diversity of Europe even more.
If you’re considering going abroad, take my advice and do it. You won’t regret it. Just be prepared. Research the areas you’ll be living and visiting. Understand the safety levels, cultural norms, and always share your location when going out, especially if you’re alone. Being aware of your surroundings is key. I would definitely recommend it! I had the best time of my life in France. I grew so much personally and academically, immersed myself in a new culture, and experienced the joy of discovering new places and people. Living in Lille gave me a deeper understanding of European history, culture, and everyday life. I came home with a stronger sense of independence, unforgettable memories, and friendships that span continents. Studying abroad isn’t just about education it’s about transformation and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat!"
"I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who’s interested in doing a study exchange! Though I’m an international student, going to Korea for exchange, felt eye-opening to me. I remember vividly that when I first arrived Seoul, it felt exactly the same when I first arrived Canada. Everything felt so new and so strange, there’s this indescribable fear in a new environment. All you can do is to really putting yourself out there, say hi to the person sitting next to you or even asking that stranger whenever you need help. Just don’t be afraid of anything that has not happened yet!
I wouldn’t say it was very hard to make friends, everybody was there to meet new people. In addition, Yonsei offers quite a few curriculum programs, the professors often encourage us to group with different people, so there’s always many opportunities to talk to new people!
The foods were pretty affordable as well, especially the ones that are close to the campus. Some people might tell you to bring everything you need, but I would recommend to bring as minimum as you could. They have many stores that sell affordable clothes, skincare, and even lifestyle items, there’s literally nothing you couldn’t find in Korea. Daiso would the best place to do your shopping, they have everything you need, and it’s mostly less than $2! Most importantly, is to enjoy yourself during the program. All professors are very understanding, they often encourage students to visit different spots in Seoul/ South Korea. I went to Jeju for a short weekend trip, and it was the best decision I’ve made. Everything felt much slower than Seoul and you get to enjoy the beach and yummy foods!"
"The social life was lively we went to visit the affiliated hospitals and went to malls and visited mount tai and the museum of Confucius. The academic life was amazing as different teachers came to teach us all different things such as the life in china, the history of china and the process of becoming a doctors in china. The food was different from what I expected I noticed that they eat a lot of bland food without spice and that is different from what I know. Yes I established and maintained a network with people. I would recommend taking weather appropriate outfit and they should purchase souvenirs. Be aware that you are different and you look different and people will notice but they don’t have any bad intention they are just seeing something different that they like. I would recommend this experienced to other student as you can get new experience and see things from other point of view"
"My time at Shandong Second Medical University was unforgettable. The social life was welcoming, and I enjoyed joining cultural activities. Academically, learning about traditional Chinese medicine gave me a fresh perspective compared to my biomedical studies at York.
I built lasting friendships with schoolmates and also with Russian people university students and still keep in touch. For future students, I’d recommend bringing personal essentials from home but buying everyday items locally, and being open to cultural differences. I’d definitely recommend this program, it’s a unique chance to grow, learn, and connect with people from around the world."
Firstly, the social life was one of the best experiences I have had to do with school. Everyone was super friendly from York and both the international university from Russia, and the host university from China. All the staff and students were very eager to talk to us and show us around or give us tips on where to go or what to buy. The extracurriculars were in small groups and we always had a student from the host university with us to help translate and guide us whether it was in the mall or just going into the street for local night life. Despite us getting a sufficient amount of free time on our own, the host university also included lots of cultural experiences for us to leave the campus and go experience the life of people living in Shandong. The academic life was good, there was big group meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner and all students on campus were super friendly towards us, the volunteers were also a huge help even on campus because they told us fun stories and we had silly experiences that could only happen because of the language barriers or situations that we got ourselves into. I still keep in contact will all the students and even some professors that I met in China, despite the time difference. As to what students should bring abroad with them? I think that everyone is different, I was the only boy and also the only person who only brought a small carry on, while all the other students had lots of luggage and while in my mind it seemed like they had lots of excess clothing or space everyone ended up still somehow using or wearing everything they brought. The only 2 essential item I would recommend to bring to China would be your phone to help with navigation and translation and some backup cash incase your mobile payment system doesn’t work flawlessly, which is exactly what happened to all of us… As long as you bring yourself and are enjoying the education abroad along with all the other fun activities and social life then that’s all you need. When travelling to a country like China, be mindful of the laws and rules in place and try to study some common courtesies to not be rude towards locals. I would definitely recommend this experience as I think it’s a one in a lifetime opportunity to learn so much about a country while also having fun and learning something new.
Faculty-Led Study Abroad
Global Internships & Research Placements
"Participating in the Goethe Research Experience Program was an experience I will remember for the rest of my life. Throughout my research stay, I gained hands-on experience while immersing myself in a new environment. I applied knowledge I learned in school to real-world situations while conducting research in Germany. I had the opportunity to work with expert faculty members who provided invaluable guidance and mentorship throughout my placement. Furthermore, the GREP program allowed me to network and create long-lasting relationships with other students worldwide. Overall, my experience doing research abroad made me more confident, expanded my perspective on life and deepened my understanding of how my research could continue to bring positive change to communities abroad."
Read more about Daniella's story here.
"Cano Palma presents an incredibly distinctive and life-altering opportunity that holds appeal for those in pursuit of adventure, personal development, and a profound affinity with nature. While it wasn't devoid of challenges, the experience was a tapestry woven with fresh encounters, enduring friendships, and endearing creatures. Days commenced in the company of individuals from diverse corners of the globe, entailing shared cooking ventures and even tearful elation on savoring the station manager's delectable homemade treats, akin to bakery delights. Embracing the Cano Palma adventure demands an open-minded approach and an ample supply of bug repellent, culminating in a departure enriched not only with newfound skills but also the marks of countless bug bites!"
“Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend this transformative experience to other students. The amalgamation of academic excellence at the Lassonde School of Engineering and the hands-on exposure at the NASA Kennedy Space Center is unparalleled. The cross-cultural insights, leadership opportunities, and global network established during this journey have equipped me to lead and inspire others. Just as I have been motivated by mentors and leaders, I believe this experience can catalyze the growth and aspirations of future students, allowing them to make a meaningful impact on a global scale."
"Before travelling to Barbados, I was extremely nervous. All my life, I had never been away from my parents for a long time. My main concern with travelling was that I would not find a good home with kind people who would accept me as a temporary addition to their family. However, As I sit here to reflect on my experience, I am filled with gratitude that the organization placed me with an amazing family who treated me as their own. Aside from the skills and knowledge gained through the organization I worked with, I felt that my home life was indeed a highlight worth mentioning. The Pinelands Creative Workshop was such a diverse organization that allowed me to have a social and work/life balance. In terms of my social life, I attended many excursions and events with the family I lived with as they included me in everything. The members of PCW also took me to many places. The country had a variety of foods that was definitely worth the hype. As a Jamaican, I was familiar with many of the dishes with a slight difference in their preparation style. I travelled with all my toiletries and a small portion of food and teas to decrease the cost of groceries. I would recommend travelling with these items as some things may be scarce in the country. I had the opportunity to pay extra to the family I stayed with so they could prepare dinner meals for me. If this option is available, I would highly recommend it especially if you want to try authentic dishes. It saves money and time. One thing to be aware of is the climate in Barbados as it is is extremely hot there. Also, the cost of living is quiet high so I would recommend travelling with extra money. Another recommendation I have in terms of social life and extracurriculars is utilizing all the free attractions as this will save you a ton of money. I would highly recommend this opportunity to anyone who wants to experience the Bajan lifestyle and working with a highly productive organization. The "work" in Pinelands Creative Workshop truly means there is always work to be done! The diversity of the organization means you will not be restricted to having only one role. There are many programs and initiatives to be a part of. The programs that are held provide an opportunity to engage with many ministers as well as people from a variety of professional backgrounds. Take advantage of everything! I surely did."
"My social life was surprisingly quite active as I took an extroverted approach my first 2 weeks within the program and managed to befriend a lot of people. I would hang out with friends of friends and also grab lunch with colleagues from the lab. There were several activities that the host university provided and I joined two of their weekend trips (the Big Buddha tour and the HK islands tour) which was totally worth it as I was able to have fun along with my friends and view the beautiful sceneries with them. It was nerve-racking the first time I set foot in the lab and met the people working there. However, everyone was very welcoming and took their time introducing and explaining the procedures of the tasks. My supervisor can be both very straightforward and vague so I had to learn how to communicate effectively with him. Food is delicious here! Best dim sum ever in the world. Yes, I remain in contact with people I directly worked with and also the friends I made within the program. I really recommend taking a plug adapter with you. It will save you money and stress. As for what to purchase there: an octopus card is extremely necessary as the MTR will be your most frequent mode of public transportation. Most shops and restaurants also accept the octopus card as a form of payment. The weather! Please make sure to stay hydrated and drink your electrolytes or you might risk getting a heatstroke like I did (not fun). An umbrella is an essential here, it will be useful for both when the sun is too bright and when it rains. Everyone has a different perspective on what is good and what is not. To me, my experience with this program had its highs and lows but I did in the end get to build and make (hopefully) lifelong connections that enrich both my personal and professional growth. You never know until you try!"
"For Canadian students, internships in Hong Kong are a great choice, and there is no need to worry about language issues when interning there, as English is also the official language of the region and the people here are very tolerant towards international students. In terms of diet, as Hong Kong is one of the global financial centers, there are also very diverse choices in terms of diet. In terms of daily life, the only thing to note is that before leaving for Hong Kong, it is necessary to prepare a power conversion plug."
"I have met many good friends from all over the world that I will keep in touch after the program ends. CUHK staff were very friendly and organized many interesting academic and cultural activities. The expense was relatively low since they didn't charge any course fee. I would definitely recommend this experience to other students. I gained many valuable insights about the research fields I'm interested in and got more equipped for grad school."
"The social life in El Salvador can vary depending on what you would like to do. They have many tourist locations and guided tours that allow you to explore the country and feel safe. The food in the country is great! I have not had any problems and enjoyed pretty much every meal I have ate. One dish I will definitely miss are Pupusas. I was able to meet a group of travellers at the organization and connect with my students as well. Each person helped me to step out of my comfort zone and try something different. In the country you can find almost exactly the same products sold in Canada. I think students need to remember to be mindful and polite. It is a country where extreme poverty can be seen. Be gracious when invited to different places and have an open-mind. Be smart, look regular and you will be fine. I definitely would recommend this experience to other students. Its a great way to learn about another country, explore different natural wonders and meet new people. I think it has helped me develop some personal goals and push me outside my comfort zone."
"During this trip, I was able to experience the beauty of Greece by exploring Athens, which is the main city and Greece, while also exploring the islands. Since the Canadian Institute in Greece provides a museum pass, I was able to visit archaeological sites and museums all around Greece while learning more about their culture and history. Through this internship, I was able to make friends with other interns and explore the islands together. Also, this internship has given me the opportunity to visit other countries located in Europe, such as Spain and Paris. During this internship, I recommend students bring clothes suitable for the weather as Greece becomes really hot during the summer reaching 40 degrees. Also during my internship, I had to do a lot of work on my computer so a laptop would be beneficial but luckily the institute also provides a computer in the office. They should be aware that the transportation system is very good in Athens as the subway is easy to read and navigate. They should also be aware of the weather, it is very hot. Yes, I recommend this experience to students as it has allowed me to grow as a professional but also as an individual."