#exchangestudent | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

hunnothyun · 6 months

Text

Stunning Conversations

I decided to document these passing conversations I encountered at my destination.

The travel destination was filled with diverse conversations.

I embarked on a trip to Belgium with my friends from Turkey. Brussels had a beautiful square. Upon entering, the sound of vibrant bells filled the air. The weather was exceptionally pleasant. During my previous winter trips to Europe, I often encountered cloudy skies, so it was refreshing to see the square basked in sunlight after a long time. The square was bustling with people. In a few days, 2021 would come to an end, and I wondered how I would feel about the new year in this place.

Entering a café, I heard someone say, "Bonjour!" in French. Belgium is a place where French is commonly spoken. My friend from France effortlessly placed an order. I, on the other hand, ordered in English. I opted for a sandwich. Through the café window, I observed the streets of Brussels. The weather soon turned cloudy again. It seemed that sunny days in Europe didn't last long. Conversations began to unfold, and I thought of capturing these passing exchanges at my destination.

One of my Turkish friends brought up a topic. "Is your country's currency stable?" He mentioned how the Turkish exchange rate fluctuated. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the political leadership, stating that the consequences of poor economic management by the country's leaders could be catastrophic. It intrigued me. The difference in currency value was something I had only experienced when exchanging money, but for my friends, it directly affected their lives. I heard stories of the hardships caused by fluctuations in currency value.

Over the next few days, the value of the Turkish currency sharply declined, throwing the national economy into turmoil. My friends even suggested that now is the best time to visit Turkey. With the devaluation of the Turkish currency, one could travel relatively well with the same amount of money. Indeed, the euro had much higher purchasing power in Turkey compared to Germany. Similar products could be bought for about half the price.

The travel destination offered various conversations. I engaged in a discussion with my friend, who was an exchange student in Spain. We talked about people's indifference towards COVID-19 quarantine policies. "South Korea has very strict measures, and everyone is vigilant about it," he remarked. The conversations I encountered during my travels made me reminisce about Korea. As the sun set, night approached swiftly. The last day of 2021 in Belgium passed by in this manner.

The Grand Place Square, situated in the heart of the city, showcased a dazzling light performance. Excited for the New Year's countdown, we patiently waited in the square. However, it appeared that the New Year's event had been canceled due to the pandemic. Leaving behind a sense of disappointment, we made our way back to our accommodations, and the light performance commenced. The unexpected encounter with the illuminating spectacle at Brussels Square on New Year's Day was truly magnificent.

#Germany #Travel #Essay #ExchangeStudent

0 notes

jpopstreaming · 7 months

Audio

🆕🎶 「 First Month 」 new single by ExchangeStudent is now available worldwide! 🌐 Listen now and discover new sounds from Japan on our weekly updated playlist 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3lgjH73

#ExchangeStudent #Japanese music #Jmusic #Jpop

0 notes

cacmsinsitute · 1 year

Text

How to Select the Most Appropriate Study Abroad Program for You

Studying abroad is a fantastic opportunity that can introduce you to other cultures, experiences, and viewpoints. However, with so many alternatives available, selecting the ideal study abroad program for you might be overwhelming. Here are some pointers to help you narrow down your selections and select the best study abroad program for your objectives and interests.

Determine your objectives and priorities. Before you begin your search, consider your objectives for studying abroad. Do you want to obtain international work experience, develop your language abilities, or simply immerse yourself in a different culture? Determine your priorities to help you narrow your search and identify program that match your objectives.

Investigate the program alternatives Once you've determined what you want to do, begin investigating study abroad programs that are available. Search for programs that provide courses and experiences that correspond to your interests and ambitions. Consider program length, location, and cost to help you limit down your choices.

Consider the location Choosing the right place is critical for a successful study abroad experience. Do you prefer a bustling city or a smaller, more intimate community? Are you interested in a specific place or culture? Consider the type of atmosphere that will allow you to grow and select a location that suits your tastes.

Examine the curriculum Make sure the program you choose offers courses that match with your academic and professional goals. Check to see if the program includes language lessons, internships, or other experiential learning activities that can enrich your experience and provide vital skills for your future profession.

Determine the cost Studying abroad can be costly, so examine the cost of the program and whether it fits within your budget. Look for programs that provide scholarships or financial assistance to help with the expense.

Consider the level of service provided Studying abroad can be difficult, especially if you are in a foreign nation and culture. Look for program that include a high level of support, such as orientation meetings, language training, and on-site professionals to assist you with any difficulties you may encounter.

Choosing the ideal study abroad program for you requires time and careful analysis, but the benefits are well worth the effort. You may select the program that best meets your needs and sets you on the route to an exceptional and life-changing experience by outlining your goals, studying your alternatives, considering the location and curriculum, reviewing the cost, and looking for a high level of support.

Are you ready to take your education to the next level? Join CACMS courses that will prepare you for the study abroad courses and make your new journey smooth and comfortable. Visit our website http://cacms.in/study-abroad/ to learn more and to apply right away.

#studyabroad #studyabroad2023 #internationalstudents #studyoverseas #studyabroadtips #studyabroadprograms #educationabroad #collegeabroad #studyabroadgoals #abroadexperience #abroadprogram #choosingastudyabroadprogram #studyabroadplanning #studyabroadadvice #studyabroadconsultant #studyabroadinspiration #globaleducation #exchangestudent #overseaseducation

0 notes

davidsantosj94 · 1 year

Photo

I visited a new city in Ireland and I'm in love! see you soon, Bray. 🍀✨ #Ireland #Bray #exchangestudent #egali (em Bray, Ireland) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqOI2dmD1tE/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#ireland #bray #exchangestudent #egali

0 notes

extremefrontierssa · 1 year

Photo

Have the big picture in mind. What are you aspiring to do? Don’t let anything or anybody discourage you. Just do it. Eventually, if you keep the end goal in mind, you will get there. You really will! And when you do, it will be so worth it... #volunteer #volunteerabroad #volunteering #volunteers #vetnurse #exchangestudent #studentexchange #safari #natureconservation #naturephotography #travelphotography #wildlife #wildlifephotography #vacation #wildliferescue #wildliferehabilitation #gapyear #travel #travelling #medicaltourism #tourismwithpurpose #tourist #tourists #tourism #honeymoonplanner #adventure #weddingplanner #ecotourist #ecotourisme (at Kalahari Desert) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpVOzHZNcjd/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

0 notes

bestschoolhyderabadlist · 1 year

Text

1 note · View note

clarestanihar · 1 year

Photo

Farsang day in my school #exchangestudent #student #afs #afshungary #binaantarbudayasurabaya #binaantarbudaya #afsinterculturalprograms #afsinternational #budapest #sopron #hungary #indonesia #soekarnohattaairport #school #man1jombang #muridmadrasah #jombang #jawatimur #tembelangjombang #sentuljombang #arekjombang #jombangkeren #study #🇮🇩 #🇭🇺 #🇮🇩🇭🇺 (at Sopron) https://www.instagram.com/p/Co9Xu9jDz2Z/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

0 notes

curlabroad · 1 year

Text

9 Things I Could Do Better During My Exchange Semester

Inspiration for this post came from my realization as I went to a 2nd exchange semester and it went much better than the first time.

These are really basic things but have much impact, so here me out. And no, the below photo is not a Stock Photo but was taken from the dedicated Erasmus nightclub's Facebook page and yes, I am there too.

Last weekend I had my best friends over. We met in Lithuania in 2016

by coincidence during our exchange semester. One of them was my next-door neighbor at the dormitory. The other met that neighbor in the line of the embassy. Through the years our bond got stronger and

we created lots of memories. We were chatting and I had a realization, my exchange semester in 2021 was much more fulfilling than the one in 2016.

So that got me thinking about what I did good and how could I do better. So, if you have an upcoming study abroad experience you should keep these in mind.

1. Memories

I believe creating memories are as important as the trip itself. So my number one is definitely related to the exchange of memories.

What I did well: Traveling new places, planning lots of trips, going solo to some, and trying new adventures

What could be better: I could have created a lot more solid things. It still brightens my days talking about that time. But looking at the -few- photos I took takes me back to that day. It would be definitely better if I created more photos, even videos, a blog, or at least a travel journal. I have a post on how to start a WordPress blog for beginners to give you a boost in the process.

2. New Friends

I am usually a bit introverted but the spirit between you and other students is something different than regular friendships. For example, our exchange student group at the university consisted of 200+ people. We all chanted “once Erasmus always Erasmus” from our hearts at every chance. Even though we never met each other before we would make friends in a few minutes.

What I did well: I met people all over the world from all over Europe to Taiwan, India, Sri Lanka, and even China. I am glad I met them and knowing there are people everywhere you are sharing something mutual is amazing.

What could be better: I could have (we all could have) met with more locals. Even though we had some local mentors they mostly backed to their normal lives after a while as we were busy chanting Erasmus things. The exchange groups offer amazing things. That’s true but locals also have better if not equal friendships and experiences too.

3. Adaptation

Now you have moved abroad and will have a new life there even though it will last a while until you’re back home. The better you make things work the more you will feel like a part of the country.

What I did well: I attended all my classes, did classwork, learned about the country’s traditions and special days/events, and found a way to participate.

What could be better: Even though you live in a new flow sometimes things from home cover your mind. It can be family, friends, health matters, and heartbreaks. If you can do anything about them easily from away just do it already. But if you are trying hard and nothing happens or there’s nothing you can do from there, just live it like that. You will be dealing with it when you are back and losing valuable time abroad mostly does not worth it.

4. Packing

I will write a more detailed post on what to pack and whatnot soon but I will shortly sum this point too.

What I did well: I brought stuff I know I needed such as my hairdryer and a blanket. It takes a lot of effort and time to fully dry my curly hair. If I didn’t bring it I would be sick walking around with a not fully dried head. Also, a blanket is not something some would think packing about for exchange. I catch a cold easily at night. Knowing myself well I packed a lightweight blanket. Also by chance, our dorm room’s heater was broken. They didn’t fix it so our room would be cold in the Baltic winter. I am not saying you should bring a blanket or a hairdryer but these mere my vital stuff and helped me. So bringing the things you need is important.

What could be better: Somehow, in contrast to packing some useful stuff I ended up with clothes I rarely have ever worn in my luggage. I had to shop a lot during my exchange semester. So if you ever think something along the lines of bringing clothes you don’t like/wear much and leave them there after your exchange period; don’t.

5. Culture

As I always tell and just told above, it is important to be a part of the country. It passes from learning traditions and cultural aspects also the language.

What I did well: I learned a lot about the country’s history, culture, traditions, and special days/events. I found ways to participate or at least attend the events.

What could be better: I regret not learning the local language, Lithuanian for my case, a bit more than “Aš nekalbu lietuviškai (I don’t speak Lithuanian)”. They were offering a 3-credit course for beginners at the university. We also had online Lithuanian courses on Online Learning System. But still. By the way, OLS is the free online system to practice languages related to your Erasmus+ exchange studies. So, use OLS for a free local language course and join volunteer-organized lectures. Almost every university has them.

6. Souvenirs

I personally like collecting stuff from places I visit. Not bringing something from a country I lived for a lot of more than just a trip would be weird.

What I did well: I collect fridge magnets so I made sure to get some and also I found some other cure items such as a Trakai castle candle, local beer bottle caps, keychains, and stickers.

What could be better: While getting souvenirs for myself I didn’t forget to get some gifts for my loved ones. But it quickly escalated to buying gifts for even far relatives and people I don’t see or talk to much. It not only cost me a lot but packing them was also a pain in the stomach. I would only buy gifts for people I really feel like.

7. Discovering the Country

If you don’t usually travel a lot or if you are not from the region you are visiting or need a visa to normally travel you may feel the urge to see as much as you can.

What I did well: I have visited many other countries and a few places in the country I did my exchange semester and I’m glad I see these places.

What could be better: On the other hand, I ditched opportunities to visit more local cities and regions to visit some other country thinking I will have a lot more time to discover them later. It doesn’t happen and time flies so fast and when you recognize that you will be packing your luggage back.

8. Bucketlist

We all have things we hope to do one day and sometimes these can be accomplished easier far from home.

What I did well: I love electronic dance music and have never been to a music festival before as they are not common in my country. I had a chance to attend Summerburst in Vilnius and that program was cheap – 70 Euros for both days and look at the names here! I was lucky enough to take a front row while

listening to most of them and especially David Guetta who was my most listened artist back then. You can check the event's old Twitter page for more photos.

This was the program of the festival. Look at all these names!

I was in the front row too! See my shots of David Guetta and Alesso

What could be better: Seeing the northern light was and still is another thing on my bucket list. We had a chance to visit the Northpole with the Erasmus Student Network trip for 300 Euros covering transportation, bungalows, special gear and clothes, a reindeer sled tour, an outdoor jacuzzi, etc. Back then it was the same amount as the monthly grant so I passed it thinking I would visit later. And years later it is one of the things I regret the most as our currency value drastically dropped and Covid happens so it will cost me a lot more than it was in that time. What I’m saying is if you won’t completely go broke after doing a thing; just go for it and tighten your buckles afterward. You will forget little things or skip meals but that memory will last life long.

9. Legal Topics & Laws

Ok, ok, I normally always check the common rules and laws beforehand and always obey but sometimes you will just listen to an exchange buddy of yours and end up getting a ticket like me.

What I did well: I obeyed all needed laws and regulations and specially asked the exchange office for some points and was doing well as usual.

What could be better: Until I listened to an exchange friend for his tip on using the transportation card. Our transportation card had monthly packages, you make installments one time and use it for 30 days. That friend told me I could use the card in Kaunas (another city) the same as Vilnius (where I lived). I did and ended up getting an 8 Euro ticket as you could use the same card in Kaunas as the pay as-you-go method but the package vas invalid.

I was later asked about that ticket for my 2nd visa interview to Lithuania and I was so embarrassed while explaining what happened. I also still have the original payment receipt for the ticket from 2016, just in case. Think how much I still care about it. So what I’m saying is don’t take advice on local laws and rules from a foreigner like you and double-check it.

Final saying

Thankfully I had an amazing exchange semester covered with amazing people and lots of memories but as you see there are lots of things that I could make better. And thankfully as I am leaving soon again for an exchange semester I have the chance to do better this time. How did you find these points? Do you have any other recommendations for me and others?

Looking forward to hearing your could-be better points!

#StudyAbroad #ExchangeStudent #StudentLife #InternationalStudent #CollegeLife #StudyAbroadTips #TravelTips #StudyAbroadStories #StudyAbroadChallenges #StudyAbroadBetter #StudentTravel #EducationAbroad #ExchangeSemester #StudentExperiences #StudyAbroadJourney #featured

0 notes

sleepingallday · 1 year

Photo

cidade do porto, portugal, 04.02.2023 #exchange #exchangestudent #exchangeprogram #porto #cidadedoporto🇵🇹 #portugal🇵🇹 (at Porto, Portugal) https://www.instagram.com/p/CoQJ-C1s1F6/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#exchange #exchangestudent #exchangeprogram #porto #cidadedoporto🇵🇹#portugal🇵🇹

0 notes

realtime1960s · 2 years

Video

May 10, 1962 - Clip No. 1 of President Kennedy's remarks at a reception welcoming foreign students to the White House.

#JFK #education #foreignexchange #foreignstudent #exchangestudent #1960s

1 note · View note

hunnothyun · 6 months

Text

If You're Alive

As I embarked on my journey through Europe, moments of walking naturally led to engaging conversations.

Genuine and unhindered conversations. It was possible.

During my visit to Paris, I sought a company within the travel community. By sharing my itinerary and location, I was able to connect with individuals who had similar plans. On this occasion, a friend of mine, who was of the same age, reached out to me. Let's call her A. A was studying in Germany and had been to Paris before. We decided to embark on this trip together, expecting wonderful weather and unforgettable experiences.

As we walked through the streets of Paris, conversation flowed naturally, filling the long days of exploring that often surpassed 30,000 steps. We delved into topics ranging from politics, society, and the environment to spirituality and beyond. I found joy in asking thought-provoking questions at each destination, as the answers often presented a whole new perspective, distinct from my own. The conversations we shared during our exploration of Paris, France, transformed the city into an unforgettable space.

The openness and honesty of our conversations stemmed from our willingness to share pieces of our lives. We have talked to each other without hesitation, and the books each has read before became a prominent topic of discussion. A was an avid reader, consuming around 80 books a year. Despite my relatively smaller bookshelf, I recommended books that had left a lasting impression on me. A listened intently, showing genuine interest in my stories.

Located near the Pont Neuf Bridge, Shakespeare and Company is a bookstore that has been enchanting readers since 1919. It remains a vibrant hub of ideas, with post-it notes adorning its walls. Adjacent to the bookstore is a cozy café, where people gather to discuss the books they have just bought. Observing them, I contemplated the power of writing.

"If you're alive, you have to write." Writing allowed me to piece together and organize my world. Sharing fragments of my worldview during conversations brought me immense joy. It was during these captivating exchanges that I found connections between various life experiences, gradually painting a vivid picture over time. The moments when conversations sparked with fascination were akin to appreciating each other's artworks.

This journey to Paris reaffirmed the importance of continuously stepping out of our comfort zones. The beauty I encountered during my travels was not solely derived from the grandeur of the scenery itself, but rather from the unconscious contrasts it created with specific aspects of my own life. In Paris, these unconscious comparison occurred frequently, sparked by passing movie scenes and igniting diverse conversations.

#Germany #Travel #Essay #ExchangeStudent

0 notes