UWS students on Exchange

During the spring semester of study at the University of Western Sydney, 54 students will travel overseas to study in higher education institutions in countries such as Canada, Chile and the Czech Republic.

As part of the student exchange program at UWS, Australian students are able to study overseas without paying any additional tuition fees and without additional time being added to their degree.

Students pay their usual HECS fees and all of the academic work completed overseas is counted toward their UWS degree. Students are still able to graduate with their peers and try something new, without wasting any time.

“There is a culture in Australia where students are eager to get their degrees out of the way and leave the world-trip for later years. But many people don’t realise that it is possible to do both,” says Mandy Baric, Exchange Program Coordinator from UWS.

Overseas study programs vary from short intensive four week subjects to exchanges that last one year. By vacating their position they allow for a student from the host university at UWS and vice versa.

Overseas exchange is often the first time that university students experience life away from the family home. It gives them the opportunity to become more independent, whilst also becoming global citizens with an understanding of global issues and cultural sensitivity.

Ms Baric says many overseas institutions teach their subjects in English, as a way to attract Australian students.

Here is what some UWS students have to say about the exchange program they will embark on.

Tamara Lobow
Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)
Destination: University of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

"This is something I've always wanted to do.  I've never been away from home for so long and the experience will be a real challenge for me. For me, this opportunity is filling a long-awaited dream.”

Fiona Morris
B Industrial Design
Destination: Lulea University of Technology, Sweden

"I don't really know what to expect.  It will be a huge culture shock but a great opportunity to study, travel, meet new people and get a different perspective on design. I plan on going to design museums and experience everything that I can and everything that's available."

 "I just love design and having a career with anything to do with design would be great. Studying overseas will give me a different perspective and I will learn the way they learn because it's different everywhere. I'm hoping the international experience will be good for my career."

CassieScopelliti     
Bachelor of Business (Marketing)
Destination:  Uppsala University, Sweden

"Especially in marketing, it is becoming more important to have a global knowledge of the industry. Hopefully, the experience will help to open doors when it comes time to look for a job."