Studying abroad for a semester was the best few months of my life. Although it was super scary to make the move across the world by myself, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and it was so rewarding and so, so worth it. 

What can you do?

You have several options to explore at Nottingham:

• Apply to study abroad for one semester, an academic year or summer placement - options dependant on your degree
• Complete an internship or research placement
• Go on an international field trip as part of your course
• Volunteer overseas
• Undertake a digital summer school, or virtual internship

Why do it?

Gaining international experience can make you more employable and give you a competitive advantage when entering the globalised workplace. You will develop increased confidence as you settle into a new culture and make friends, while facing the challenges of studying, working or volunteering in an international environment whether that’s in-person or online.

If you’re undertaking an experience in person, it’s a fabulous opportunity to travel, try new foods and explore the sights. Through a digital or virtual experience, you’ll gain crucial career skills such as working with others on projects across different time zones, managing your time and utilising digital collaboration platforms such as Zoom or Teams.

Overseas work placements

When you start to explore work placements overseas you will find that some will be paid and others will be volunteering roles. In some instances, work placements can be costly so do look around and research your placement provider thoroughly. The Careers team can support you with the research into providers.

The project helped me to prepare for my upcoming graduate employment with the Financial Conduct Authority and made me feel like a more confident individual. I won’t ever forget this once in a lifetime experience as being one that  has left a lasting positive legacy in Fiji and on my development journey