Matilda – University of Leeds – England
Semester 1, 2025
Bachelor of Communication / Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
When I say that going on exchange was the best decision of my life, I genuinely mean it. My semester abroad at the University of Leeds gave me more than I could have ever expected – it gave me lifelong friendships, unforgettable travel experience and memories that will stay with me forever.
Having lived out of home since I was 19, I came into the exchange experience a little differently than many of the others. I had rent to keep paying, furniture, bills and all the usual ‘adult’ responsibilities that don’t just go away because you decide to move to the other side of the world for six months. But honestly? Every bit of planning and saving was worth it. It’s also worthwhile to mention that I had a permanent job in law (my degree) which gratefully and thankfully was held for me until my return – all you have to do is have the conversation, because the worse they can say is no.
Leeds itself is an incredible city, full of history, energy and a buzzing student culture. I was lucky enough to stay in Charles Morris Hall, which in my humble opinion is the best Hall for full immersion into the UK uni experience. Not only was my room 50m from the refectory, but there was also always something social to attend which made it easy to forge friendships.
As I was on exchange in Semester 1 (Semester 2 in the UK), the University of Leeds has a month-long break for Easter in April. A group of us took full advantage of it, travelling our way across Europe – think 30 days of buses, hostels, Airbnb’s, croissants and chaos. It was a whirlwind, and I loved every second of it.
One piece of advice I cannot stress enough: JOIN A SOCIETY. At first you may feel overwhelmed with how many social events you have on without joining a society, but it is a MUST – it will completely change your exchange experience. I joined the Lacrosse Society, and it was genuinely some of the most fun I’ve ever had in my life. From training sessions to social nights, and supporting the 1st teams at varsity and tournaments, it gave me the chance to experience the uni lifestyle (that we don’t have in Australia) and build real friendships with domestic students – not just other internationals.
Exchange brings so many opportunities. You’re not just studying in another country – you’re building a life there, even if it is just for a few months. You’ll meet people from all over the world, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and grow in ways you don’t even realise until your back home.
So, if you’re on the fence about exchange, here’s my honest advice: just do it. You won’t regret it.
P.S. Bring a deck of cards – it will characterise your entire exchange experience.
Find out more on how you can apply: Student Exchange
