Exchange program gives Ruth an International edge

Ruth Sainsbury is exploring the world, shopping in London, learning Italian, eating Greek food and successfully completing her undergraduate degree at the same time.

The USQ Law/Arts student from Toowoomba is one of many young people embracing an overseas adventure through the University’s Exchange and Study Abroad Program.

Ruth, who is currently studying at the University of Essex in the United Kingdom, said she was having the cultural time of her life.

'It has been really easy to get to know people at the uni here, particularly those in my flat because I see them every day,' Ruth said.

'The number of clubs and societies provided here at the uni means that there are ample opportunities for me to meet new people and experience new things.'

One of these societies is the Travelling Society, of which Ruth is a member.

'They organise trips to areas around the Uni, for example I went on a trip to Cambridge in the first week which was really fun,' she said.

Ruth said she had found it very easy to meet people from other countries and learn about different cultures.

'There is an Italian student in my flat and she is currently trying to teach me how to speak Italian. Also one of my friends has three Cypriot students in her flat so they are constantly eating Greek food and learning about Greek culture.

'As the uni is so close to the town of Colchester, we often go into town for shopping and for other entertainment, like clubs and bars. The shopping is really good and the town has a very English feel about it.'

Ruth said she regularly travels to London by train.

'It takes about 50 minutes and we have done this a number of times to go shopping and look around London as well.'

USQ Student Management Marketing Manager, Ms Justine Ball, said USQ’s exchange programs were a great way for students to broaden their horizons whilst studying.

'It is widely acknowledged that in the globalising world, organisations are now seeking employees with skills and characteristics that enable them to be more competitive in the international arena,' Ms Ball said.

'Graduates now require intercultural competencies and international experience to make them more employable.'

Ms Ball said the experience also made students aware of their own capabilities and the endless possibilities open to them.

'Most returned students can't wait to travel again,” she said. “Ideally, I'd like to see all USQ students have the opportunity to participate in a semester-long or short program overseas at some point in their study.'

USQ has exchange partners in many countries, including Canada, England, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Sweden and the United States of America.