A student exchange overseas can be a memorable and impactful experience in embracing new cultures, building friendships and gaining an insight into a foreign culture. No matter which of our international destinations you choose for your exchange program, this guide will help you discover how to make the most of it.
Get involved in school activities
When you go on your student exchange, you will be living with a host family and will attend a local high school. Joining school activities, like a club or sports team, will provide you with an opportunity to interact with locals, practice your language skills and learn local dialects and gain a deeper understanding of the culture plus build lifelong friendships.
Be curious about cultures
One of the most fulfilling experiences you can have abroad is immersing yourself in a different culture. Things like festivities and community events, holidays or cultural practices aren’t just a chance to create cherished memories, but also enable you to understand cultural nuances that aren’t covered within a textbook.
Don’t be afraid to check in with your host family on any local events that you can visit with them, or places where you can try different foods and step out of your comfort zone.
Document your journey
When you go overseas by yourself for the first time, you may experience culture shock. This is normal and will pass with time. Something that can help is journalling your student exchange experience.
Reflecting daily or weekly on your experiences will allow you to process what’s happening in your life. Incorporate physical things like photos, doodles or ticket stubs so that you can preserve memories, or take it a step further with a video blog.
Set personal goals for language learning
Make language learning fun by challenging yourself. Set small goals that are measurable so that you can stay motivated. Some examples include:
- Learning and using 5 new local phrases each week
- Setting a weekly challenge like ordering at a local café or holding a conversation with a new person
- Get involved in activities where you’re more likely to have an opportunity to practice the language, like learning a traditional dance or cooking a dish
Discover more practical tips on learning a language while you’re on exchange here
Make every moment count
Make the most of your student exchange by being open-minded and embracing the culture. Get involved in activities with your host family, document your journey, and challenge yourself to practice your language skills!
As one of our past exchange students states,
“Don’t count down the days!! Take each day as its own day and individual experience. Live in the moment!“
Be prepared to ‘Be The Idiot‘
When you’re on a student exchange, you will inevitably “be the idiot” at some point—and that’s okay. You’ll mispronounce words, misunderstand cultural norms, get lost in unfamiliar streets, and probably make a few awkward mistakes along the way.
But that’s part of the experience. Embracing the role of the clueless foreigner not only makes for great stories later but also helps you grow. Every stumble is a learning opportunity, every awkward moment a chance to connect with people who are often more forgiving than you think. So, lean into the discomfort, laugh at yourself, and remember: being the idiot today means becoming wiser tomorrow.
Why Choose Students of the World for your next international student exchange?
For over 20 years, our students have travelled the world learning new languages, attended local schools, and participated in unique cultural and social events. We have a helpful, friendly and knowledgeable team who provide you with individual advice and support for a rich and rewarding student exchange experience. While abroad, our international partners provide students with the same high standard of support and care for which we are renowned.
Students have 24/7 support during their stay in the host country and assigned a local coordinator who they are free to contact at any time to discuss any issues or concerns. All coordinators are trained and can take immediate action should any serious issues occur – you can learn more about our Safety Commitment here.
If you’re ready to start your student exchange experience abroad, register your interest in our upcoming info sessions.