by Logan Dick

Highlights

My experience at Arizona State has been great. I’ve met so many awesome friends, learned a lot, and had the opportunity to travel to new places. However, I do have a few highlights: 

The Grand Canyon

If you ever have the chance to visit the Grand Canyon, you absolutely should! It is amazing and well worth the walk down into it. It’s quite a drive from most places, but if you’re going from Phoenix you should definitely make a trip of it. Stop on your way and even spend a night in Sedona or Flagstaff as they are well worth the visit.

Making new friends

I have been lucky enough to make plenty of new friends here in Arizona. Whilst I spent most of my time socialising with other exchange students from around the world, I have also made great connections with my housemates and their wider friend group. I would suggest to anyone going on an exchange that it is helpful to make friends with people who live there. They have all the good tips and tricks about where to go and what to see.

The University

ASU is huge, and there are plenty of cool experiences that come with that. The University is always hosting events and there are always things on regardless of what you’re interested in. There are over 1000 clubs and groups where people with similar interests connect.

---

Challenges

My exchange has been awesome, but with any great experience, there are always a few challenges. Being away from home for so long isn’t easy. I am a relatively independent person and even I found it challenging to be distant from friends and family for over 4 months. In my opinion, it is fine to miss home, but you mustn’t let it ruin your time away. I tried to keep my focus on all the exciting things going on, which helped time pass much quicker. 

---

Learnings

Whilst my exchange has been great for me academically, I have learned a lot as an individual as well. I’ve figured out how to live in a foreign country, how to make friends with people from different cultures, and gained knowledge from a different style of curriculum. I think an exchange is a great way to broaden your horizons and learn more about society, culture, and yourself.

---

Future Impact

My exchange will continue to be a positive experience in the future. I have met friends from all over the world who I will be sure to reconnect with someday. Also, my courses here have been interesting and will help me in my job next year. I think that it’s important to remember that your learnings don’t stop when you get home, you can take them with you and apply them to your everyday life.