UQ Program: Bachelors of Arts/Journalism
My semester exchange to City University, London, was an amazing experience. London is one of the best cities to study journalism in and the courses offered at City were really beneficial. The most difficult thing I found was organising my subjects – be prepared to stray from the study plan you take overseas – but once it got started, the subjects were really awesome. I got the opportunity to write heaps of stories and learn about London along the way. I also met some amazing people from all around the world. City is much smaller than UQ so you see a lot of the same faces around.
London was a fantastic place to live as well as to study in. There is always something happening and you can never be bored. The most frustrating thing for me was that even after a semester living there, I didn’t get close to doing all the things I wanted to. If you do get bored and want to get out of London, you can, with super cheap flights to almost anywhere in Europe. I took trips to Dublin, Oxford and Yorkshire while I was there.
I got so much out of this experience on a personal as well as an academic level. There are days when London really feels like half a world away but these days are few and far between. Going on exchange will really show you what you are capable of and how strong a person you are. I had an amazing time and would absolutely encourage anyone who has the opportunity to do it.
5 top tips to save money in London – which, as a student, you will need.
1. Drink in pubs to avoid club cover charges and outrageous drink prices – or buy liquor from the supermarket and pre drink.
2. Get a student Oyster Card to get transport discounts
3. Subscribe to the young and poor newsletter (www.youngandpoor.co.uk)
4. Go to the museums – all the permanent exhibitions are free!
5. Go to Camden Markets for cheap vintage clothes and winter basics like thick jumpers which you won’t find at home – having a couple of jumpers will be invaluable in London winter.