Amsterdam, Here I Come!!!!!

"Were you ever thinking of going abroad for an internship or exchange?"

I've heard that line a few times throughout my university career, especially during class talks. Some upper year student would be standing at the front of the class and would start preaching about studying abroad in countries like Australia, England, Germany, Costa Rica, China, etc. I used to brush their words aside without even seriously considering it was an option. Although it was something that I always wanted to do, I never thought it would be possible. I didnt think I had the time or money to ever be able to do it. 

When I got into 5th year, I heard about all the people doing amazing exchanges around the world and their stories blew my mind so I thought I would look into it. I went to an info session and a few months later I'm heading to the University of Amsterdam. It was a very easy process to apply and I didn't need a ridiculous GPA either. Only a B average! York International wants students to go abroad and they make the process as simple as possible. They were also really helpful at answering my questions and proving me with the resources that I needed.

Your probably asking how does it work?

Well you apply through York International and they let you pick your top three countries to live in. You can go for one semester or two and you even have the option to do two exchanges in one semester. Afterward, they will let you know which country you get accepted to and most students get accepted to at least one exchange. You pay York fees but you take the classes abroad so you get to avoid expensive international fees. York International often tries to subsidize your costs with a bursary or grant so you have less financial concerns while you away. You have the best time of your life and your credits might count towards your York degree.

I recently bought my plane ticket and found out that I'm going to be living beside a canal. SO AWESOME! They also have a social orientation which looked amazing online! I'm so excited for my exchange. I'm planning on traveling to as many countries as possible once I'm there. I could do breakfast in Amsterdam, maybe lunch in Belgium and dinner in France or Germany. What do you think?

So next time your in class and someone asks if you want to do an international exchange or internship. You might want to pay attention! =)

- Mike 

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