Jordan Willis - Trent Study Abroad Program

Why did you decide to travel abroad?: I did a short two-week exchange in high school to Taiwan and had such an amazing experience that I knew I wanted to study abroad again. I wanted to learn about different cultures, meet people from around the world, and learn how to adapt in a new environment.

Why did you choose to study at Nottingham Trent University? How did you learn about it?: Nottingham seemed like a great location not too far from London & other places to visit. Plus, I’ve always wanted to study abroad in England.

What was your experience like? What are some of the differences & similarities with Trent?: I found that throughout the semester classes were quite low key and many students didn’t go to class. I took a full course load (equivalent of 2.5 Trent credits) and found it was a much lighter workload compared to Trent.

What did you find was the most challenging/difficult while abroad?: I found the most challenging part was adjusting to some cultural and societal norms, as well as making connections in a whole new country.

Were you able to travel?: I was able to travel to Scotland, Greece, France, Germany, Austria, and Italy! I think France and Greece were my favourite. Corfu, Greece had amazing beaches and it wasn’t super touristy which was nice while Paris, France was somewhere I had always wanted to visit. I also really enjoyed Rome, but it was super busy with tourism so that’s something to keep in mind when you visit. I would recommend doing some research about public transportation before travelling to a country because it works a little different in every city and country.

In your opinion, what would you say are the benefits of studying abroad?: I think the benefits are getting to experience a new culture and learn so many new skills. You learn to put yourself out there and problem-solving skills when in new situations.

Did you live in residence or off-campus, and how was that experience?: I lived in residence on campus in Sandby Hall and it was a fun experience. I shared a kitchen with just under 50 people which could get chaotic and dirty sometimes, but overall was pretty good. My whole floor was also exchange students from all over the world and we made a flat group chat where we would make plans to hangout which was fun. Luckily you got your own room and bathroom which was super nice.

What advice would you offer a student who is thinking about studying at your host institution and country?: I would say go for it! Nottingham Trent University has so many great clubs, societies, and events to get involved with and it’s a great way to make friends!

What was one of your favourite memories from your time abroad?: One of my favourite memories is going out dancing with friends on one of my last nights in England and we stayed out until 3am then came back to our dorms to get blankets and went to go watch the sunrise at 5am in the park nearby. It was a great way to spend one of my last nights with friends and watch the sunrise together.

If someone told you they were thinking about studying abroad but weren’t convinced they should, what would you tell them?: I would tell them it is an amazing experience that they should definitely take advantage of! When else are you going to be a young student with the opportunity to live abroad at a relatively low cost where it is also super easy and inexpensive to travel around Europe from.