Tips and tricks to thrive in your first semester abroad

By Zarina Patel, University of Toronto, Canada

Moving “across the pond” (a phrase I’ve heard one too many times) was arguably the scariest, yet most unregrettable thing I’ve done. In this blog, I’m going to break down what to do in your first few weeks after landing in the city! Although my advice stems from my experience at the University of Toronto, it can be applicable to any exchange student!

1. Arrive with your Monzo / Chase / Revolut card sorted

Even if you plan to open a bank account in your destination country, having some sort of UK debit card with no conversion charge is so useful for your first couple weeks in your new country just whilst you are finding your feet in your new city / on campus. Also, having a card you can use if you make any international trip is undeniably useful.

2. Get a (student) sim card sorted

One of my biggest realisations coming to Canada was how spoiled we are in the UK with cheap sim-only deals. To soften this pain, try to get onto a student ‘bring your own phone’ deal as soon as you can. Don’t put this off too long because the student deals only last until mid-September! Remember to take your passport and study permit in-store to claim the student deal.

3. Attend your exchange student orientation sessions

As much as you want to meet and be friends with the local students, it is equally important (in my opinion) to have a network of exchange students around you, because you have relatable experiences and similar goals for the year. In our September orientation, they explained everything from health insurance, ‘UofT timing’, exams and travelling around the city.

4. Talk to your classmates from the get-go!

Speak to the locals! Alongside TikTok to get recommendations, ask your classmates about the places to eat, best uni spots and libraries to explore, and which student nights out are worth it!

5. Collect your student ID ASAP

Amongst getting you into uni libraries, campus sports facilities and other uni-related activities such as entering intra-mural sports, I did not realise the need of a T-card to get into ‘frat’ parties. Luckily, I collected my student ID before my first weekend in Toronto, but others didn’t and which made it more difficult to get them admitted into various social events.

6. Get rewarded for your spending 

Points cards for supermarkets have great perks. Get a transport (e.g. PRESTO) card to travel more economically. Also, don’t forget, Google maps is your best friend. Walking to places whilst the weather is nice works so well for orienting yourself.

7. Throw yourself into student life before the work picks up, and whilst the weather is still nice

We are in such a lucky and unique situation of having the ability to try new things, where no one knows who you are and there are no consequences (i.e. being able to drop out if you don’t enjoy something). It’s such a great way of meeting and connecting with a completely separate and new pool of people, that aren’t other exchange students or classmates. And so fun! I had the best time representing my college in 6-a-side Soccer, Dodgeball and Table Tennis! We even got to play our intramural soccer matches on the Varsity team’s American Football astro (see picture above).