University of Bayreuth, Germany

I found out about the University of Bayreuth from a German exchange student who studied in Regina during the Fall 2022 term. I had earlier wanted to travel to Europe, and was already looking into study abroad. Learning German at the time as well, I narrowed down my destinations to two German Universities, and it only took a little encouragement from my friend to make the final choice. [...] The university itself was a blessing. The professors were kind and engaging, and made a clear effort to offer useful information and guidance in their classes. Despite the many beautiful aspects of this city and experience, the most meaningful were not appreciated until I first could understand that studying abroad has its challenges, as well as its excitements. Living on your own in a new country can be lonely and at times intimidating, but those moments of trial, themselves, offered treasures that I may not have received otherwise. It was only after finding myself alone that I learned what was required to build deep friendships, and only after finding myself overwhelmed, did I learn the need for surrender and trust. When I least expected it, friends walked into my life that I hope to keep forever, and at my weakest, I found strength that did not rest in myself. There were many lessons learned during my year in Germany, both in the classroom, and outside it. And this is what studying abroad offers to those who would take the opportunity offered to them.

Mathew Anton, Fall 2023 and Winter 2024 Exchange, Bachelor of Arts

France, Belgium and Holland

My trip to France for my History Honours internship was the most exciting experience of my life, and I would never have gotten the opportunity to fly overseas and learn about European culture without the support of the University of Regina's Study Abroad team. They provided me with the information and encouragement that I needed to make the most out of my trip. I would recommend a semester abroad to any student who is looking for adventure, excitement, and personal growth.

 Emily Reid, Spring 2024 Practicum, Bachelor of Arts

Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland

I think the memories I'll cherish the most are the little things. The surreal feeling of stepping out of the airport shuttle bus and seeing Old Town after spending hours looking at pictures and videos of it, spending a day with some random Dutch family I met while climbing to the top of Arthur's seat, or my quiet walks through the city every night. There were definitely challenges too. Carrying my two suitcases to my hostel at the top of the Royal Mile was probably the hardest thing I've ever done in my life. I also got a bad throat infection and had to learn how to navigate their healthcare system in order to get antibiotics which was fun!

Cole Ellis, Fall 2023 Exchange, Bachelor of Business Administration

Uniinter Study Tour, Brazil

*This testimonial has been edited for length.

I decided to study abroad because I wanted to learn more about other Indigenous Cultures around the world. I was intrigued to explore Southern Brazil and learn about their Indigenous people and culture. I am a Métis, Indigenous woman myself and I was honoured to be welcomed into Brazil with loving arms. Everyone there [was] so welcoming and eager to share their culture, language, traditions, and food with us. I am forever grateful for getting the opportunity to visit Brazil and especially the 5 sacred Indigenous communities we got to visit and exchange knowledge and information with. All of it was a very valuable, and positive learning experience.

[...] The Indigenous people of Brazil are very passionate and powerful and it was truly amazing to see how much they have overcome-they are resilient and honourable. [...] This trip impacted me for the better. Although I went into this trip with an open mind, it was even more amazing than I could have imagined. I learned a lot about Indigenous people and their culture and gained a new perspective on what they have had to overcome from colonization. I also never knew that a country could be so warm and welcoming. I feel that I gained more confidence through this trip as well. 

[...] I highly recommend travelling abroad to study and learn something new about another country/culture and about yourself . I think it’s so important to learn about other cultures around the world so we can better understand one another and join together to help our environment and Mother Earth as well and to fight racial discrimination/oppression.

Ashley Yeomans, First Nations University - Brazil Study Tour, Social Work

University of Technology Sydney

It has been a privilege, as a minority student, to travel to Australia and participate in an exchange program at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). The city is beautiful, and there is a lot to explore. Also, the study Abroad and exchange staff are extremely welcoming and eager to assist in any capacity. For academics, a wide array of help is available to students.

In fact, this exchange has been the highlight of my university career. My worldview has tremendously amplified. For this reason, I would like to encourage every student to participate in a University exchange for at least one semester because this experience will have a lifetime impact on each participant.

Special thanks to the Study Abroad staff at the University of Regina for their invaluable help and support. Without them, it would have been impossible to reach this goal.

Rachelle Pierre, Fall and Winter 2024 Exchange, Bachelor of Science