Keyi (Sem 1, 2025)

My Exchange at the University of Sheffield

I found out about the 360 International Exchange Programme through the international office at my home university in New Zealand. As a Bachelor of Architecture student, I was excited to experience studying in the UK and deepen my understanding of global architectural contexts.

I spent one semester at the University of Sheffield, which corresponds to my third year, first semester in New Zealand, but was actually the second semester of the final year in the UK system. Upon arriving in Sheffield, I was impressed by the historical yet vibrant feel of the city. The university itself had a strong academic reputation and a beautiful mix of modern and traditional architecture.

Accommodation was comfortable—I stayed in a university hall with my own ensuite bathroom, which offered a good balance between privacy and convenience. Orientation was well-organised, though a bit more tailored for full-year exchange students or undergraduates starting their studies. Nevertheless, staff and coordinators were helpful, and it didn’t take long to settle in.

The academic system was relatively similar to New Zealand’s, which helped with the transition. However, since I joined in what was essentially the final semester of the UK degree, some topics felt advanced or fast-paced. The teaching quality was excellent; the tutors were knowledgeable and encouraging, though it was slightly challenging to integrate into the class socially. Many local students already had well-established friendship groups by that stage, which made group work and casual interaction a bit harder at first.

Sheffield is a welcoming city with rich culture, excellent public transport, and many affordable travel options to nearby cities like Manchester and Leeds, or even further afield. The cost of living was noticeably higher than in Auckland, especially when it came to eating out. That said, food choices were diverse—from supermarkets to international cuisines—and it was easy to find something that suited my preferences.

I especially enjoyed the opportunities to travel on weekends and during short breaks. The UK’s efficient rail and bus networks made this really convenient. I also appreciated the academic environment and access to architectural resources like site visits, guest lectures, and design facilities.

One of the biggest highlights was seeing how architecture was approached from a UK context—balancing heritage conservation with new design—and being part of a studio that focused on real-world problems. The main challenge was adjusting to a more intensive workload and fitting into a social structure that was already formed.

For future students, I’d recommend arriving a bit earlier if possible, to give yourself time to explore and adapt. Don’t hesitate to reach out to classmates and staff for support. Make the most of travel opportunities and bring an open mind—studying abroad is as much about personal growth as it is academic learning.

Q&A

What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?

One of the highlights was the high quality of teaching at the University of Sheffield. The tutors were experienced and passionate, often bringing real-world architectural projects and challenges into the studio environment. I particularly enjoyed the strong focus on sustainable design and heritage conservation in the curriculum. The design studio atmosphere encouraged critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, which helped me grow both academically and professionally.

Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?

Yes, I would highly recommend visiting the Peak District, which is very close to Sheffield. It’s a beautiful national park ideal for hiking, photography, and relaxation. Within the university, the Arts Tower and its famous Paternoster lift are unique features architecture students would appreciate. Also, taking part in university-run society events is a great way to meet people and experience British student life.

What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?

1. Travel smart and early – Take advantage of the UK’s public transport system to explore the country during weekends or breaks.

2. Be proactive socially – Join clubs or societies to meet new people, especially since many local students already have close friend groups.

3. Stay organised with academics – The final semester pace can be intense; keeping on top of deadlines will help reduce stress.

How much did you budget for your exchange? Was this enough? Were there any lessons learned that would help future students budget for their own exchange?

I budgeted approximately NZD 10,000 for the semester, covering accommodation, food, transport, travel, and daily expenses. While this was mostly sufficient, food and eating out in the UK turned out to be more expensive than expected. One lesson I learned was to cook more at home and use student discounts wherever possible (such as with the UNiDAYS or TOTUM apps).

What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?

Studying abroad helped me become more adaptable and confident. I learned how to navigate new social and academic environments, and how to manage time and expectations in a fast-paced setting. Academically, I gained insight into architectural practice in the UK, especially in terms of urban planning and sustainability. On a personal level, I became more independent and open-minded.