University: Thompson Rivers University

City: Kamloops

Country: Canada

Continent: North America

Field of study: business administration

Study type: semester abroad

After I had done my civil service, I decided to start my studies abroad.

Since I couldn’t start my business studies in Mannheim until the following year, I was looking for a sensible solution to fill in the remaining months. Check mcat-test-centers.com to see University of Birmingham.

Thus, the semester abroad was an optimal interim solution to make new and, above all, preparatory experiences, both professionally and personally. Thanks to the friendly help of MicroEdu, the registration went smoothly, so that towards the end of December I was able to head towards Kamloops. For those of you who are thinking about taking your winter sports equipment with you, i.e. skis or snowboards, make sure to register them with your airline beforehand. For example, you can transport it with Air Canada for free and you are spared extra costs and negotiations at the airport.

After a few first days of exploration on our own, the orientation week began on January 2nd, in which we internationals were first familiarized with the university and the customs there. All in all, this introduction was quite helpful. There was information on topics such as opening a bank account or the cheapest mobile phone and internet providers. However, the event is sometimes a bit too long and in conversation with other students you can find out even better ways to save money. For example, it is possible to get a lot of equipment or the like from former exchange students.

The first week is mostly limited to buying course materials and getting familiar with the timetable. The professors are usually very helpful when it comes to choosing a subject and making any changes, so I was able to take all the courses I wanted. This is easier for internationals in particular than Canadian students, so no need to worry too much if you haven’t gotten all the courses you want before you start your studies. With a little persuasion it is almost always possible to attend the lectures.

The lectures here are very similar to the German school system, but the classes are usually quite small, so that personal contact with the professors is possible. The proof of performance is not provided by a large final exam, as is often the case in Germany, but in many courses there are constant smaller tests and midterms. However, you remain constant in the learning process, which is very helpful with regard to the final exam, as the pressure to perform is somewhat lower.

During my time there I had 3 credit courses and one as an audit course, so the workload was okay. This gave me the opportunity to see a lot of Canada while studying. Therefore, I can only recommend everyone not to choose too many courses. The prerequisite is, of course, that this is possible within the framework of the requirements of your home university. However, you should really take advantage of the opportunity to see a lot of this wonderful country alongside your studies.

In winter, the possibilities for skiers and snowboarders are almost unlimited and therefore the ideal activity and distraction from everyday university life. The local ski resort of Sun Peaks is about 30 minutes away by car. Other world-class resorts such as Whistler or Revelstoke are also great for weekend getaways and should be a must for snow sports fans.

In any case, the quality of life is very high thanks to the many outdoor opportunities and above all because of the friendly and easy-going nature of the Canadians. Another point that should probably interest many is the evening weekend arrangement. There are various bars in Kamloops where many students meet and celebrate together. However, if you are looking for a more lively nightlife, weekend trips to Vancouver are probably the best alternative.

The campus is quite small which contributes to a quiet and cozy atmosphere. Most of my international friends have stayed in one of the student residences, which are not always the best choice. That’s why I also searched the internet privately for accommodation. I ended up sharing an apartment with a Canadian student. The building was right below the UCH dormitory and I had a lot more space and facilities for the same price. If you are looking for private accommodation, I can recommend www.craigslist.ca.
In conclusion, I can only say that I really enjoyed my semester in Canada. So I can only recommend it to anyone who is thinking about a semester in Kamloops.

Hope you make the right choice and have fun and success in your semester abroad.