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Student Exchange Buddies

NTU Global has a team of Student Exchange Buddies (SEBs) who have just returned from their own study abroad and exchange experiences. They have a great understanding of what it is like to be a new student at a new university, and can offer you support, friendship and advice if you are also interested in doing this. Read their top tips on this page.

What our SEBS say

Our team of SEBS can provide advice and support on study abroad, including top tips on the following:

If you would like to contact one of our SEBs you can find their email address link to their profile below.  They are here to help you so please reach out to them.

Tyler Eastwood - BA (Hons) Business - Spain - Australia - Mexico

Tyler Eastwood

Travelled to: University of Valencia, Spain, Swinburne University of Technology, Australia, and CETYS University, Mexico

Activity: Studied a variety of courses (one semester in Spain and one in Australia), and then spent 4 weeks in Mexico undertaking a business consultancy project and participating in community engagement activities.

“Living abroad is a very unique experience to just going on holiday and one that forces you to grow in all aspects and learn through experiences not possible in England.”

Highlight: Exploring new countries and connecting with the locals.

Top Tip: Say yes to every opportunity, make the most of the experience as a year goes by very quickly.

You can contact Tyler Eastwood if you have any questions or would like to learn more about his experience.

Marina Rodriguez Martinez - BA (Hons) Business - Portugal

Marina Rodriguez Martinez

Travelled to: ISCTE, Portugal

Activity: I learned new languages and tried different subjects.

"Study abroad will open your mindset, challenge your ways of thinking, and make you grow as a person.”

Highlight: Learning a new language and exploring Portugal. Meeting, having friendships and living with a lot of people from different countries and cultures, undertaking new curricular subjects and embracing a different lifestyle.

Top Tip: Be open minded and caring, for yourself, your experience and other people around you, try to make the most out of it, be present, enjoy and let it surprise you!

You can contact Marina Rodriguez Martinez if you have any questions or would like to learn more about her experience.

Max Devergne - BA (Hons) International Business with French - France

Max Devergne

Travelled to: KEDGE Business School, France

Activities: Studying and work experience

“It was an enriching and eye-opening experience for me. The exposure to diverse culture and perspectives broadened my worldview and enhanced my adaptability. The friendships I created during this journey are ones that I will genuinely cherish forever. Overall, my time studying abroad was not just about earning a degree, but also about growing as an individual and as a global citizen.”

Highlight: Playing Rugby and making some of the best friends possible!

Top Tip: Embrace the unfamiliar.

You can contact Max Devergne if you have any questions or would like to learn more about his experience.

Arailym Shuinshina - LLB (Hons) International Law - The Netherlands

Arailym Shuinshina

Travelled to: University of Groningen, The Netherlands.

Activity: Studied a variety of courses that significantly expanded my understanding of International Law.

“Studying abroad provides an incredible experience of living in another country, immersing yourself in a new culture, and connecting with people from different parts of the world. During this time, you'll step out of your comfort zone, experience personal growth and gain valuable skills such as adaptability, intercultural communication and time management that will enhance your CV."

Highlight: The friends I made during study abroad and the opportunity to travel around the Netherlands and visit other countries!

Top Tip: Sometimes it can be challenging, but the most important thing is not to give up! At the end of your journey, you will be proud of yourself.

You can contact Arailym Shuinshina if you have any questions or would like to learn more about her experience.

Madeline Holloway - BA (Hons) Business Management and Marketing - France

Madeline Holloway

Travelled to: EDHEC Business School, Nice Campus, France.

Activity: Studied on a range of modules with an international management and marketing focus.

“It allows you to step out of your comfort zone and massively improve your confidence, it’s also a great way to see the world and travel to so many new places.”

Highlight: Making so many amazing friends and being able to see the world.

Top Tip: Go with an open mind, be open to trying new things or getting involved in anything that comes your way.

You can contact Madeline Holloway if you have any questions or would like to learn more about her experience.

Sania Jafri - LLB (Hons) International Law - Italy

Sania Jafri

Travelled to: University of Padua, Italy.

Activity: Studied modules, taught in English, in the Faculty of Law.

“Studying abroad really allowed for me to build my independence, experience a new environment /culture and improve my confidence as I really stepped out of my usual comfort zone.”

Highlight: The social, travelling and cultural aspects. I was able to form new long-lasting friendships with both Italian students and fellow exchange students, experience new cultures, learn a new language, travel to different countries and it was just the most exciting thing.

Top Tip: Definitely put yourself out there and keep an open mind.

You can contact Sania Jafri if you have any questions or would like to learn more about her experience.

Abigail Oldfield - BA (Hons) Fashion Communication and Promotion - Australia

Abigail Oldfield

Travelled to: Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia.

Activity: Studied four courses and volunteered to help at Melbourne Fashion Festival.

“You learn so much, things that benefit your studies and your life. You meet so many different people and it opens up your perspective and you grow as a person.”

Highlight: I made lifelong friends while away and meeting others in the same position as you is a bonding experience.

Top Tip: get in touch with other NTU students going to the same country so that you know someone else who's in the same boat as it really helps if you need advice on things such as visas.

You can contact Abigail Oldfield if you have any questions or would like to learn more about her experience.

Florian Javaud - BA (Hons) International Business with French Dual Award - France

Florian Javaud

Travelled to: KEDGE Business School, Marseille, France.

Activity: 1.5 years studying at KEDGE and a 6 months accounting internship in Paris.

“At first I was very hesitant about going abroad for 2 years however it has been such a rewarding experience, and by the end of it I didn't want to leave! You meet so many new people making lifelong friends from all over the world, and get to experience some amazing opportunities.”

Highlight: Exploring new countries and connecting with locals.

Top Tip: Don't be afraid to go for it! Things might seem daunting at first and did for me, but if you put yourself out there and get involved in as many things as you can, you will never look back!

You can contact Florian Javaud if you have any questions or would like to learn more about his experience.

Max Wakes-Miller - BA (Hons) International Business with French - France

Max Wakes-Miller

Travelled to: KEDGE Business School, France.

Activity: Year 1 - 6-months with a specialisation in luxury marketing / 6-month internship in Bordeaux. Year 2 I studied with international students.

“There are very few times in life where you will be given such a big opportunity for development & personal growth in a foreign country.”

Highlight: Leaving my comfort zone & gaining a sense of independence.

Top Tip: Focus on getting a local bank account as there can be large fees for withdrawing money and many jobs and apartments will not accept an English bank account for sending and withdrawing money.

You can contact Max Wakes-Miller if you have any questions or would like to learn more about his experience.

Ruby Preston - BA (Hons) Fashion Management - Australia

Ruby Preston

Travelled to: University of Technology, Sydney, Australia.

Activity: Studied on number of different business classes relevant to my course.

“I had the best time studying abroad, meeting new people, learning about the culture and lifestyle in Australia, not to mention coming home with multiple worldwide connections.”

Highlight: Making lifelong friends from all over the world and being able to travel Australia with them.

Top Tip: Enjoy every second!! It will go so quickly, take every opportunity and gain as many connections as you can.

You can contact Ruby Preston if you have any questions or would like to learn more about her experience.

Kiran Patel - BSc (Hons) Chemistry - USA

Kiran Patel

Travelled to: Northern Arizona University, USA.

Activity: Studied for one academic year and participated in extra-curricular activities.

“I would definitely recommend it, it broadens your horizons, and helps you grow in ways you wouldn’t think you could. You make friendships for life and get to experience a different lifestyle and try out new things.”

Highlight: Going on a road trip to the national parks in Utah. It was very spontaneous but we got to do one of the most dangerous hikes in the States and also see the beautiful views of Zion national park and have a fun weekend with friends.

Top Tip: Research the place you’re going to, to prepare for what life is like there.

You can contact Kiran Patel if you have any questions or would like to learn more about her experience.

Aditi Yadav - MSc International Business Dual Award - France

Aditi Yadav

Travelled to: ESC Clermont Business University, France.

Activity: Studied relevant modules and took part in Erasmus group activities.

“It was a transformative experience that broadened my cultural understanding and enriched my life in countless ways. The exchange offered the benefits of cultural immersion, improved language skills, expansion of my global perspective, and enabled me to acquire academic credits.”

Highlight: Immersing myself in the rich culture from savouring exquisite cuisine to experiencing art and history.

Top Tip: Attend all induction and cultural functions and take benefit of student public transport and grocery discounts.

You can contact Aditi Yadav if you have any questions or would like to learn more about her experience.

Caitlyn Preddy - BA (Hons) Business Management and Marketing - Australia

Caitlyn Preddy

Travelled to: University of Technology Sydney, Australia.

Activity: Studied 4 modules related to my NTU degree.

“Study Abroad makes you stand out from other students. When applying for jobs it shows so many different skills. Students won’t get this kind of opportunity again so take it while you can!”

Highlight: Getting the opportunity to do some travelling and seeing different parts of Australia.

Top Tip: As amazing as the experience is you’re going to have times where you may miss home or just the UK in general. With this, remember that you’re only away for a short period of time and everyone’s still going to be at home waiting for when you’re back. Make the most of it all!

You can contact Caitlyn Preddy if you have any questions or would like to learn more about her experience.