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My name is Lakeisha Evans and I spent a Year Abroad at the University of Windsor Canada.

Going on an International Experience Year (IEY) was an incredible opportunity. As someone who has travelled a good amount previously, I hadn’t realised how different it would be to “live” somewhere as a student.

What I gained academically
I was given the opportunity to learn a wide range of subjects, which has greatly enhanced my understanding of the world and of topics relating to both Childhood & Youth Studies and Social Policy. Studying Social Work and Social Justice helped me develop a more global understanding of how policies impact people in Canada compared to the UK.

Some of the subjects I undertook were:

• Psychology- Introduction to Behavioural Science
• Social Justice- Building a Social Justice Movement
• Politics- Making of the Global World
• Drama- Speech Communication

I had to adjust to a different academic system. Canadian courses tend to have more assignments, more varied teaching/grading criteria and tighter deadlines. One class was even “self-taught” through the lecturer’s own e-book with a weekly 1,000-word assignment! Although I did struggle at times due to my dyslexia, I learned to use different time management and prioritising techniques. Overall, the challenges have made me more efficient and capable as a student.

What I gained personally
This Year Abroad has been life-changing. I met students from all different walks of life - local freshers, Canadians from other regions, international and exchange students. Each person brought a different perspective on studying and the world in general.

My sense of time and distance have also changed. Before you would not catch me travelling more than 30 minutes very often, whereas in Canada, it took over an hour to go to the ‘mall’ on a bus. Grocery shopping takes longer and requires more planning. However, I adjusted to this slower pace of life to better plan rest days and my time generally.
Being so far from friends and family was difficult initially, especially as I experienced unexpected culture shock. However, I learnt to reach out for support whilst having the space and time to process things and carry out self-care. The slower pace of life around studying really enabled me to focus on my priorities whilst becoming more independent and enjoying my own company.

I was able to travel widely during my Year Abroad: Toronto, Calgary, Banff, Detroit, Chicago, New York City, Washington DC, Seattle, New Orleans, Vancouver, Tampa, Cleveland, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Niagara Falls and New Jersey! I also got to visit relatives in Florida, travel with my sister, and meet an old ������ϲʹ������� friend in Nashville.

Exchange is a brilliant opportunity and I highly recommend it to every student. It will enable you to explore the world, experience new cultures, make new friends from around the globe and develop knowledge and skills beyond what you could in your hometown, country and university!

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