Leith SALEM

University of Sydney, Australia
Exchange to Fudan University, China

One of the reasons for going on exchange was to put myself out of my comfort zone, whilst going somewhere vibrant, exciting and global. My exchange to the "New York of the east", Shanghai, definitely lived up to all of my expectations.

It was an amazing experience spending a semester abroad at Fudan University, Shanghai's leading tertiary institution and one of the best in China. I had the opportunity to be in Shanghai during the "World Expo" and this was a time that definitely showcased Shanghai at its best. From the moment I arrived to the moment I left, I felt that I was in a global city, but one still attached to its Chinese past and heritage - and one that proved at times to be challenging.

One of the advantages of heading to Shanghai was that not only was I able to develop friendships with local Chinese students, but I made friends from all corners of the world. It was not uncommon to be out at dinner for everyone sitting at the table to be from a different country.

Being a self-confessed foodie, Shanghai definitely was the ultimate location to go on exchange. I loved the convenience of being able to walk outside 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, and being able to savour local delights, such as Xiao Long Bao and Sheng Jian Bao. If there is a disadvantage from going on exchange to Shanghai, it is that you will find it difficult to adjust back to not having the convenience of delicious, cheap food so readily available!

The language barrier proved difficult at times, and put me out of my comfort zone, but this for me was an exchange prerequisite! Before I departed for Shanghai, I struggled to say "Ni Hao". By the time I left Shanghai, I had successfully taught three taxi drivers on non-consecutive occasions how to say "G'day Mate!"

Of course, going on exchange *does* mean you have to attend University. But the classes at Fudan proved to actually be interesting! I highly recommend doing courses which you cannot ordinarily do in Australia and are China-focused to fully take advantage of your academic experience whilst on exchange. After all, why do something on exchange which you can do here?

Another awesome thing is that EVERYTHING can get delivered almost anytime in Shanghai. Ever had that late night McDonalds craving during an assignment or after a late night out? In Shanghai, it gets delivered to your door at 4am in 15 minutes!

If I could sum up my time in Shanghai, it would be with one phrase - "No Regrets". I learnt some Chinese, I tried several new foods, I made lifelong friendships, and I got to become familiar with a foreign and global city better than I know Sydney.

If you want an exchange experience that is fun and challenging, I highly recommend Fudan University in Shanghai. I cannot recommend it enough!

On a personal note I would like to thank the Australian Government and the Cheung Kong Group for giving me the financial freedom to broaden my horizons and perspectives in one of the region’s and the world’s most dynamic cities.

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