UQ Program: Bachelors of Business Management/Commerce
Without a doubt, the decision to go on an exchange has proven to be one of the most amazing experiences of my life and a journey like no other. Although the preparation process may seem overwhelming and daunting the unforgettable memories made from the exchange makes these things an incredibly small price to pay. 
As a commerce student at the University of Toronto, the Rotman program offers a different learning environment to that of UQ. Participation within lectures and tutorials for students in their third year is highly encouraged as lecture classes are relatively small (around 50 people) and are more so run as a seminar style of learning. It is for this reason that preparation of each class is very important and although the level of difficultly for each course is relatively similar to that of UQ, the amount of content and assessment is definitely greater. The U of T St George is certainly an intimidatingly big campus however its olden style buildings make for a beautiful learning environment with colleges and libraries spread out throughout the entire campus.
The university also offers free access to students to their gym within a building that looks like a castle and outdoor athletics centre. I recommend getting in touch with the Centre for International Experience (CIE) and participate in some of the activities and trips they organise. It’s here where you can meet exchange students from around the world who are experiencing exactly the same excitement, concerns and travel experiences with you. It’s also great to make friends with these other exchange students as they would most likely have the urge to explore and travel during the semester if you’re ever in need of a travel buddy.
If possible, I would highly recommend staying at a residence offered by the university. It’s through here that most of my memories were crafted because of the friends who quickly turned into family that were made through my residence. I decided to stay at the Chestnut residence which within no time was referred to as home by myself and fellow exchange students. The walk to campus may sometimes seem like a pain, especially when it snows but living in the heart of downtown makes it all worth it with late night cafes, restaurants, art galleries and shops literally around the corner! 3am Chinese food from the Garden restaurant down the street made all-nighters and other big nights so much more bearable!
Travel as much as you can throughout the semester. Bus trips to Montreal, Niagra or to the States are very cheap and a great way to see more of the country and share some quality time with friends. In saying that, don’t forget to explore downtown Toronto as the city has so much to offer. Yorkville area, a section north of the city and very close to campus was my favourite area with gorgeous boutiques, delicious cafes and a place known for celebrity sightings – I was able to get a glimpse of Megan Fox during the annual International Film Festival in downtown Toronto.
Generally, the cost of living in Toronto is rather high as everything is taxed by approximately 15% and tips are customary for all services. The combination of both these things can equate to unexpected expenses. If I could offer any advice it would be to pack lightly as the amount of things accumulated over 4 months is almost unbelievable. A good camera is an absolute necessity as flicking through photos of my trip brings back all the amazing moments that I hold with me forever. Participating in Canadian culture is obviously a must! Late night feasts of street food or poutine (a tradition Canadian meal of chips, gravy and cheese curds), going to a hockey or baseball game or 1am snowball fights are something that the land of the maple leaf has to offer. 
Yes its cliché, but an exchange is a life changing experience. A Brisbane girl coming across snow for the first time is one thing, however there’s so much more that an exchange in Canada has to offer. No matter what country you choose to go on an exchange to, I guarantee you will meet all sorts of people and make friends from around the world – Mauritius, Argentina, Netherlands, Germany, Egypt to only name a few that I became close with, I’ve learnt so much from these wonderful people with various cultures and backgrounds and at the same time they’ve learnt a lot from me. Coming back home from exchange I not only bring back unforgettable memories but a more open mind, eagerness to travel and a curiosity to learn about and experience other cultures.