Semester Abroad in Canada

Our student shares her experiences at Royal Roads University in Victoria, British Columbia

One of the most essential components of MCI study programs is their international orientation. This is reflected not only in the curriculum and assigned projects, but also in the opportunity to spend a semester abroad. We highly support our students to use this opportunity. It will allow you to develop highly-valued skills such as intercultural communication, foreign languages, adaptability, and problem-solving.

In the current third semester of the International Health & Social Management program, Lili Anna Pellizzari went to Victoria, BC (Canada). In the following interview, she gives some interesting insights into her experiences:

Can you share a specific academic project, course or research opportunity that was a highlight of your exchange?

One particular academic highlight was definitely the business simulation as part of the ‘International Marketing’ lecture. We had the task of using marketplace simulation software to set up a fictitious company that would ‘compete’ against other teams in the bicycle sector. Each week, we had to make strategic decisions in areas such as investment, product design, marketing, pricing, HR management, and sales. The simulation required not only a high level of analytical thinking and teamwork, but also the ability to react flexibly to new market developments and to stay ‘cool’ when things didn't work out the way you thought they would. However, the intercultural teamwork was particularly valuable for me, as my team members came from different countries and professional backgrounds. The diversity showed me how enriching intercultural teamwork is, but also gave me a deeper understanding of the challenges and points of contention.

When reflecting on your time abroad, what cultural experiences left a lasting impression on you?

Before I came to Canada, I didn't realise how diverse and intercultural the country actually is. I was particularly impressed by how naturally people from the most diverse nationalities live together here. This harmonious interplay of so many cultures has left a lasting impression on me. I am not only overwhelmed by the ‘Canadian’ warmth, but also very grateful to have met so many people from India, Bangladesh, Buthan, China, Mexico and many other nations. These encounters have broadened my view and horizon many times over and have shown me how little I have actually seen of the world. I was also deeply impressed by the nature in British Columbia. Encounters with killer whales and humpback whales from the ferry, deer and rabbits in the middle of the city and even a coyote on the side of the motorway are unforgettable moments for me. This unique combination of cultural diversity and breathtaking nature makes Canada a very special place that has left a lasting impression on me.

Every exchange experience comes with its challenges. Can you discuss the most significant challenge you faced during your time abroad and how you worked to overcome it?

A stay abroad is often like a mental rollercoaster ride that can bring incredible highs and lows. For me, the biggest challenge at the beginning was finding my way around a new continent with a time difference of nine hours from home. As I came to Canada alone and didn't know anyone, the first few days were sometimes overwhelming. You don't know your way around the city, you're not yet familiar with everyday habits and you're overwhelmed by seemingly simple questions such as ‘Where's the cheapest place to buy groceries?’ or ‘How do you pay for a bus ticket?’. During this time, it helped me a lot to leave my room and explore the neighbourhood on foot. I discovered beautiful places in the city and my neighbourhood, but I also occasionally ended up in a dead end. At the same time, I took every opportunity to meet new people. To do this, I often jumped over my shadow, tried out new sports such as Pilates, hot yoga, ultimate frisbee or ball hockey, visited local farmers' markets and took part in ice hockey events. In the end, I was surprised at how quickly you can meet new people and build a new home away from home in a short space of time.

Given your unique journey, what advice would you give to future exchange students preparing for a similar experience?

Of course, I can only speak from my own experience, but I have grown incredibly during my semester abroad and have learnt to trust myself more. I wouldn't want to miss a single difficulty or challenge - because it's all part of the experience and has made me the person I am now. My advice to future exchange students would be: sometimes you have to push yourself a little, jump over your own shadow. It helps if you simply say ‘yes’ more often with a healthy dose of common sense - be it to new activities, encounters or unfamiliar challenges. It is precisely these moments that make a semester abroad an unforgettable experience.