“A whole life within six months”: ߲ݴýdent Chloé Doiron on International Exchange in Sweden
߲ݴýdent Chloé Doiron is fulfilling her dream of studying abroad this semester. The third year French and Psychology student is currently on exchange at Örebro University in Sweden.
“Choosing to study abroad was the best decision I've ever made,” Doiron said.
“The motto here is: exchange is not six months of your life, it’s a whole life within six months. I have created more memories, made more lifelong friends, and lived more experiences than I ever thought imaginable within such a short period of time.”
The lifelong Frederictonian said the education system in Canada is different than in Sweden, where she takes one class at a time over a four-week period, takes an exam then moves onto the next class.
“I personally have loved this method as I have been able to focus on only one subject at a time,” she said.
Doiron’s professors in Sweden have encouraged her to travel during her exchange, which has helped her learn about other cultures. She has travelled within Sweden and has visited France, Norway, England, Hungary, and Switzerland. Doiron plans to visit Denmark, Belgium, Germany, Portugal and Poland before the end of her semester abroad.
“The highlight of my exchange so far would be taking part in an organized trip to Norway. Not only is Norway breathtaking but being able to explore it with other international students made it even better! We went hiking, cruised in the fjords and visited beautiful little towns and cities,” she said.
Doiron said living abroad has helped her overcome challenges, learn to ask for help, and be more confident in herself.
“If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to study abroad, please reach out to the international office. The thought of moving across the world can be intimidating but it is a life changing experience!”