Peer Advisor Schedule and Testimonials

Drop by the International Programs Office to meet with a Peer Advisor—students who have recently returned from exchange and are here to offer guidance to future participants. Peer Advisors begin their office hours starting Monday, September 14th, 2026. Please see the schedule below. 

 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday 

10:00 - 11:00

  Blythe
Nanyang Technological University 
SINGAPORE
 

11:00 - 12:00

  Maya
City St-George's University of London
ENGLAND
Isabel
Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3 & Cardiff University
FRANCE & WALES

12:00 - 1:00

Lunch (closed)

Lunch (closed)

Lunch (closed)

Lunch (closed)

1:00 - 2:00

James
Uppsala University
SWEDEN
Ella
University of Glasgow
SCOTLAND
 Sophia
University of Âé¶¹¹ÙÍøsland
AUSTRALIA

2:30 - 3:30

Naashkii
University of Auckland
NEW ZEALAND
Ryan
The University of Hong Kong
HONG KONG
Zoe
University College Maastricht
NETHERLANDS
Naiara
University of Heidelberg 
GERMANY

2026/2027 Peer Advisors

Blythe (Nanyang Technological University)

"My semester abroad at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore is an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life. Before leaving, I was nervous about moving so far from home, making new friends, and how studying abroad might affect my academics. Looking back, choosing to go despite those fears was the best decision I could have made."

Read Blythe's Testimonial

Ella (University of Glasgow)

"Studying at the University of Glasgow was one of the most exciting, challenging, and meaningful experiences of my undergraduate degree. Moving to a new country without knowing exactly what to expect was intimidating, but it gave me the chance to build a completely new life for myself and become more independent, adaptable, and confident."

Read Ella's Testimonial

James (Uppsala University)

"Uppsala, Sweden, was not initially on my radar when planning my exchange. In all honesty, I had never even heard of it before filling out my applications. However, after some research, it quickly became my top choice, and fortunately I was able to spend the 2025-26 academic year there. It proved to be the single most rewarding experience of my life thus far."

Read James' Testimonial

Maya (City St-George's University of London)

"As they say in Hallmark movies, I arrived with two suitcases and a dream. I studied at City St George's, University of London, located in the artistic neighbourhood of Islington in North London. This experience has forever changed my outlook on life, and I could not be more grateful for the opportunity. I was pushed out of my comfort zone in ways I didn't know were possible, and I came back with more growth and independence than I expected."

Read Maya's Testimonial

Naashkii (University of Auckland)

"Without a doubt, it was the most gratifying and transformative experience of my life. I am incredibly grateful for the places I saw, the people I met, and the culture I experienced. New Zealand is such a beautiful country, and throughout the semester, I constantly had to remind myself that this was real life!"

Read Naashkii's Testimonial

Naiara (University of Heidelberg)

"It’s very difficult for me to come to terms knowing it’s over, but at least I know the longing comes from a place of deep gratitude, because it means my time abroad was even more meaningful than I hoped it would be. I will forever cherish my time in Heidelberg and carry these experiences and perspectives with me into my future aspirations."

Read Naiara's Testimonial

Sophia (University of Âé¶¹¹ÙÍøsland)

"More than anything, exchange taught me to embrace the unfamiliar. Living on the other side of the world pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me become more independent, confident, and open to opportunities I might otherwise have hesitated to take."

Read Sophia's Testimonial

Zoe (University College Maastricht)

"By the time I boarded my flight home, it was the combination of mourning the best 5 months of my life and the immense gratitude that brought me to tears. I was leaving with new best friends from across the globe, memories from 19 countries, 1000 shared photo albums and more confidence in myself than I had ever had."

Read Zoe's Testimonial

Ryan (The University of Hong Kong)

"So whether we choose to go abroad or not, perhaps we should all try to live more like an exchange student: receptive to the ever-changing world around us, finding beauty in experiences both exciting and mundane, and eager to see what magic awaits around each untravelled corner."

Read Ryan's Testimonial

Isabel (Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3 & Cardiff University)

"Months after coming home, I still find myself talking about exchange as if I just got back. Whether it is a photo, a song, or a random memory, I constantly think about the places I lived, the people I met, and the life I had."

Read Isabel's testimonial

2025/2026 Peer Advisors

Solomiia (Uppsala University)

"I landed in Uppsala, Sweden — a place I might not have thought of at first, but one that turned out to be the perfect match...My most cherished memories include fika afternoons, evenings at student nations (i.e., organizations), learning about Viking and Sámi history, and simply watching the seasons change in breathtaking ways."

Read Solomiia's Testimonial

Alyssa (Université de Lausanne)

"Going away on exchange challenged me in new ways that helped me grow tremendously! I stepped outside my comfort zone and saw a new side of the world and of myself. I recommend going on exchange to anyone who has the opportunity to. It was a lifechanging experience that I will hold onto forever!"

Read Alyssa's Testimonial

Aidenne (Université Lumière Lyon 2)

"It was the most fulfilling experience of my life. I found a sense of community and comfort with other exchange students; I made so many friendships with people from around the world who made Lyon feel like home!"

Read Aidenne's Testimonial

Jazib (University of Warwick)

"Spending a semester abroad at the University of Warwick was one of the most transformative experiences of my undergraduate journey. Immersing myself in a new academic system and culture pushed me to grow both personally and intellectually. Every moment, from touring the UK/Europe to forming lifelong friendships, offered something new and worthwhile."

Read Jazib's Testimonial

Jorja (National University of Singapore)

"The ability to study during the week and then explore some of the most fascinating places in the world on weekends was an entirely unique and rewarding experience. Looking back, studying abroad in Singapore changed me in ways I never could have predicted. It was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, and I would recommend it to anyone who has the chance."

Read Jorja's Testimonial

Julia (Cardiff University)

"I left home with my two oversized suitcases, and a pocketful of tissues to dry my nervous tears. Seven months later, I returned with even more tissues, this time to wipe away the sadness of leaving a special place, and many special people."

See the full story

Mya (University of Âé¶¹¹ÙÍøsland)

"Looking back now on my time abroad, I can honestly say it was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I will be forever grateful for the opportunities I had to grow as an individual, the friendships I built, and the unforgettable experiences that shaped my global perspective in ways I never could have imagined."

Read Mya's Testimonial

Perla (University College Maastricht)

"Exchange was the most transformative experience of my life. The challenges I faced, how they pushed me out of my comfort zone, and the incredible people I met all changed me into who I am today - and for that, I’ll always be grateful."

See the full story

Tessa (Boğaziçi University)

"My semester at Boğaziçi University has easily been my favourite semester of my undergraduate degree...Living in Istanbul was an incredible experience of cultural immersion. There was always something new to discover: amazing food, campus events, or a cool neighbourhood I hadn’t explored yet."

See the full story

Justin (University of Glasgow)

"The University of Glasgow was a place like no other. It looked like Hogwarts and felt just as magical. Between late nights in the library, five pound lattes with classmates, and quiet walks through the cloisters, the campus became a huge part of my experience. I took courses that challenged me to think differently, and I met students from around the world who have grown to become lifelong friends."

See the full story

2024/2025 Peer Advisors

Angela (Nanyang Technological University)

"My time at NTU was filled with unforgettable experiences, friendships, and lessons that will stay with me for a lifetime. I left Singapore with a broader perspective and a heart full of memories, grateful for the chance to learn and grow in such an incredible place."

Read Angela's Testimonial

Anushka (Leiden University)

"Looking back, I can confidently say that my exchange helped me grow in so many ways. I learned how to travel safely on a budget, embrace challenges with a positive mindset, and appreciate new cultures. Exchange gave me the opportunity to truly immerse myself in the local culture for months, something I never would have experienced as just a tourist."

Read Anushka's Testimonial

Emily (Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø's University Belfast)

"This experience gave me more than I had ever expected and I would encourage everyone who is considering it to do so if they can. I made lifelong friends, developed new perspectives, and gained an appreciation for both the challenges and beauty of living abroad."

Read Emily's Testimonial

Isabel (Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3)

"From small medieval towns to hikes in the French Alps, it’s the day trips I took and the evenings in Lyon that shaped my incredible everyday exchange experience."

Read Isabel's Testimonial

Jack (Curtin University)

"My semester on exchange at Curtin University in Western Australia was truly a life-changing experience...Reflecting on my experience, I feel I am much more confident overall and have a stronger belief in who I am and what I am capable of."

Read Jack's Testimonial

Jenny (University of Leeds)

"If I have to put a word to my exchange year, it is definitely the best word in the world. My full year at the University of Leeds in England is absolutely and entirely perfect!"

Read Jenny's Testimonial

Sarah (University of Auckland)

"I am beyond grateful for my time on exchange in New Zealand, as it was truly one of the most unforgettable and transformative experiences of my life. I now have lifelong friends from all corners of the world and memories that I will cherish forever."

Read Sarah's Testimonial

Andrew (University of Edinburgh)

"It was an eventful 5 months that I wouldn’t change for the world. My advice to anyone considering going on exchange is to just do it. Put yourself out there and take every opportunity that’s given to you."

Read Andrew's Testimonial

Valerie (University of St Andrews)

"I can’t believe it’s been a year at St Andrews, and no matter how good it is to be back, the memories made in St Andrews and in Scotland will last a lifetime."

Read Valerie's Testimonial

Isabella (Universität Tübingen)

"Spending a semester abroad was a surreal experience that I think about every day. I became so much more independent, confident, saw the world, and it was one of the best decisions I've made."

Read Isabella's Testimonial

Grace (Uppsala University)

"Outside of my school life in Sweden was filled with as much navigating and learning. Learning about Swedish culture meant partaking is “Fika� (Swedish coffee and cake time) almost daily, and spending time outside hiking, skiing, and ice bathing as much as possible."

Read Grace's Testimonial

2023/2024 Peer Advisors

Elena (University of Sydney)

"My time in Sydney, Australia studying at the University of Sydney was the most transformative and incredible experience of my undergraduate career, which I am exceptionally grateful to have had the opportunity to partake in."

Read Elena's Testimonial

Abby (University College Maastricht)

"Studying abroad through the Bilateral exchange program was an amazing experience filled with fun memories and personal growth. Dublin will forever have a special place in my heart, and I wish I could do it all over again."

Read Abby's Testimonial

Amanda (Chinese University of Hong Kong)

"I was able to immerse myself in a new culture and environment, meet people from all backgrounds, and push myself in ways I never would have been able to before."

Read Amanda's Testimonial

Alice (Uppsala University)

"The memories and lessons I’ve gained from Uppsala will stay with me forever. This journey has given me the confidence to face new challenges, a global perspective on life, and a network of friends scattered across the globe. I can only hope that others will be inspired to explore, embrace the unknown, and let exchange transform them!"

Read Alice's Testimonial

Tanzima (University of Oslo)

"The time at UIO in Norway went by fast, as precious time often does. I was saddened to leave Norway in June, but I left with so many memories, friends, and knowledge. Norway will be an important part of my life for shaping my independent thinking and letting me pursue my biggest dreams."

Read Tanzima's Testimonial

Michelle (University College Dublin)

"Studying abroad through the Bilateral exchange program was an amazing experience filled with fun memories and personal growth. Dublin will forever have a special place in my heart, and I wish I could do it all over again."

Read Michelle's Testimonial

Patricia (Durham University)

"The best part of my exchange was being downtown and running into a familiar face. I had a network of supporters that made Durham feel like a home away from home. People that, even though an ocean separates us, will always be in my life."

Read Patricia's Testimonial

2022/2023 Peer Advisors

Marie-May (University of Salamanca)

"This experience taught me perseverance, resilience, self-compassion, but most importantly self-advocacy. My time in Spain was not perfect, and it certainly was not always easy, but I would not change anything because I am now a better person for it." 

Read Marie-May's Testimonial

Jasmine (Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen)

"I would redo my exchange semester abroad in a heartbeat. My love for Tübingen showed me how capable I am of adapting to new environments, making lasting connections, and seeking adventure into the unknown. I strongly recommend this valuable experience to all Âé¶¹¹Ù꿉۪s students!" 

Read Jasmine's Testimonial

Hanna (University of Stirling)

"Stirling allowed me to grow both academically and personally. I became more independent, met a wide variety of people, experienced a different form of learning, and gained perspective on many cultures throughout Europe thanks to the many travel opportunities."

Read Hanna's Testimonial

Songyu (Chinese University of Hong Kong)

"The exchange to the Chinese University of Hong Kong was a wonderful experience... I am very excited that I have overcome my academic challenges and successfully completed my studies in Hong Kong through hard work."

Read Songyu's Testimonial

Jihyun (University of Edinburgh)

"Participating in exchange has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life so far. It is something that I would encourage all students to consider pursuing!"

Read Jihyun's Testimonial

Rebecca (University College Maastricht)

"Participating in the exchange program at UCM was an unforgettable experience that taught me a lot about myself and the world around me. One of the highlights of my exchange was having the opportunity to travel all across Europe!"

Read Rebecca's Testimonial