Aishah chose to study a semester at the University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus because she wanted to experience teaching in a completely different cultural and educational environment. As someone pursuing a career in education, she felt it was important to gain a global perspective.
Choosing to study a semester in Malaysia may seem daunting, but there are a few features on campus that may help it feel like home. Like Nottingham, our Malaysian campus has its own Trent Building, lake with obligatory geese, and Nottingham sign.
Studying in a different country gives you a unique opportunity to embed yourself in a new culture. This type of experience is great to talk about when applying for jobs as it shows you’re adaptable, you have intercultural skills, and like Aisha, it can boost your confidence.
I’ve grown in confidence and independence. Being in a different cultural and academic environment helped me become more adaptable and open-minded. I’ve developed a deeper passion for learning about other cultures and am more inspired than ever to become a teacher who embraces diversity and inclusivity.
Settling down in Malaysia
I felt quite apprehensive initially because I was stepping out of my comfort zone and travelling so far away from home. However, that nervousness was mixed with a sense of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to see what the experience would bring and how it might shape me personally and professionally.
When I arrived, the university had organised a welcome talk and a campus tour which helped ease the transition. There were also opportunities to meet other exchange students, which made me feel less alone and more connected from the very beginning. The university made a real effort to help us settle in, which I really appreciated.
I stayed in on-campus accommodation, which was very convenient and gave me a great opportunity to immerse myself in student life. Being on campus meant I was close to classes and university facilities, and it also helped me to meet local and international students easily.
It was surprisingly easy to make new friends. The campus was quite small, so there was a real sense of community. Everyone seemed to know each other, and people were very open and friendly. This made it much easier to connect and form genuine friendships quickly, which helped me settle in emotionally and socially.
Studying in Malaysia
I studied several education-related modules including:
Materials for Language Learning which focused on how to create and adapt resources for English learners
Curriculum Studies which explored how national curriculums are designed and implemented, including international comparisons
Behaviour Management in the Classroom, which examined effective strategies to manage classroom behaviour in different cultural contexts
The learning experience was both familiar and different in interesting ways. One major difference was the strong focus on peer learning and discussion-based sessions. There was a noticeable emphasis on collaboration and community, both in and outside the classroom. This encouraged active participation and helped me to view learning as a shared journey rather than an individual task.
Cultural activities
I used my free time to explore Malaysia and nearby countries, visiting Thailand, Bali, Singapore, and Laos. Each place offered something unique, and it really opened my eyes to the richness and diversity of Southeast Asia. These travels were some of the most memorable parts of my experience.
I loved trying out local food spots, visiting cultural landmarks, and immersing myself in the local way of life. It was a great balance of studying and adventure, and I really made the most of my time there.
I was fortunate to be there during Ramadan and Eid, and it was amazing to experience how they are celebrated in Malaysia. The sense of community was beautiful, and I learned a lot about the traditions and significance behind the celebrations. These experiences helped me connect more deeply with the culture and people around me.
A wide shot walking through a street in Kuala Lumpur
An experience to remember
I felt emotional leaving Malaysia as I was sad to leave the friends I had made and the place that had become my ‘home away from home.’ But I was also looking forward to seeing my family. It was a bittersweet moment, but one that marked the end of an incredible experience; one I’ll always treasure.
I learned so much academically and personally. It opened new perspectives, gave me unforgettable memories, and confirmed my desire to work in diverse educational settings. I would absolutely do it again.
A wide upwards panning shot of the entrance to the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur
