When people talk about going on exchange, it often sounds dramatic. It’s usually framed as academically intense or personally transformational — a period where everything changes and you return home as a completely different person.
My experience was definitely valuable and memorable, but the reality was a bit less dramatic. Continue reading Exchange Expectations vs Reality
My Cardiff exchange has been a truly life-changing experience, filled with unforgettable memories and valuable learnings. During my time abroad, I had the opportunity to visit new places, try unfamiliar foods and meet people from a wide range of backgrounds. Continue reading Reflecting on my exchange experience
Kia ora! My name is Sarah Smith and I am incredibly fortunate to be heading to Cardiff University for a trimester exchange at the beginning of 2026. By the time I’m in Cardiff, I’ll be a third year psychology student studying a Bachelor of Social Sciences, and I am absolutely fizzing to start exploring Cymru (Wales)! Continue reading Excited, Curious and Absolutely Terrified
Hi everyone! My name is Jasmyn, and I’m going into my third year of a Bachelor of Social Science, majoring in psychology. I chose to go on an exchange because the U.K. — and overseas travel in general — is how my parents met. Continue reading From VW Camper Tales to My Own Cardiff Journey
Kia ora, my name is Ayla Montgomerie, and I have just completed my second year studying a Bachelor of Climate Change, majoring in Environmental Planning, and minoring in Education and Society. I am excited to attend Cardiff University in Wales for the Spring Trimester in 2026. Continue reading Climate Change in Cardiff
I was able to travel before my exchange even started. I ended up spending over a week each in Canada, Italy, Greece, and Morocco, and spent time with family in England—all before arriving in Cardiff. It was a great way to start the semester. Continue reading Travelling While Abroad: The Art of Making It Up As I Go
Cardiff is a very social and lively city. It is common for students to go to a local cafe and do their studies there, as there are cafes everywhere! Continue reading Life in Cardiff
Hi, I’m Hayleigh. I’m currently in my final year of studying a Bachelor of Science majoring in Earth Science. I chose to go on exchange to broaden my perspective and experience how Earth Science is taught and practiced in a different part of the world. Continue reading Exploring Earth Science on Exchange
Kia Ora, my name is Makaia Trueman, and I am currently in my second year of university, studying towards a Bachelor of Business with a double major in Strategic Management and Māori and Indigenous Studies. Continue reading A Journey Awaits
Kia Ora, my name is Makaia Trueman, and I am currently in my second year of university, studying towards a Bachelor of Business with a double major in Strategic Management and Māori and Indigenous Studies. I am choosing to go on an exchange this year to step out of my comfort zone and challenge myself in ways I never imagined. Continue reading A Journey Awaits
Waikato Global Experiences Blog 