Youjia (Sem 1, 2025)

My Exchange at the University of Virginia

I found out about the 360 International Exchange Program through an email from the University of Auckland. At the time, I was curious about what it would be like to study abroad and experience a different academic culture. After doing some research, I felt that the University of Virginia offered a great balance between academic excellence, so I decided to apply.

When I first arrived in Charlottesville, I was struck by the peaceful campus. The classical architecture, the wide lawns, and the strong sense of tradition gave UVA a unique charm. I remember feeling both excited —it was my first time living in a U.S. dormitory, and I didn’t know what to expect. But the people I met were warm and welcoming, which helped me settle in quickly.

I stayed in a Hereford college inside the campus, about 10 minutes away from the Rotunda (one of the most beautiful libraries on campus). The dormitory was clean and quiet, and the bus station was just near the dormitory.

Campus life was lively and engaging. There were always events happening—student fairs, concerts, even a free movie on Tuesday nights.

Food-wise, there were plenty of dining options both on and around campus. One of the main dining halls was Runk, located near the Hereford Residential College. In my opinion, Runk was the best dining hall at UVA. It offered a wide variety of international cuisines, including American, Mexican, and Indian food. One of the highlights was the chef’s showcase, where you could watch your meal being freshly prepared right in front of you. Also, you can use your flex dollars on the campus. In Newcomb, there are coffee shops such as Starbucks and some convenience stores. You can try some American fast food in Newcomb, such as Chick-fil-A.

For future students considering the exchange program, my advice is to keep an open mind and be proactive. Reach out to classmates and professors, try new things, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The exchange is not just about academics; it’s a chance to grow personally and explore the world from a new perspective.

Q&A

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

One of the highlights of my academic experience at the University of Virginia was the interactive and discussion-based teaching style. Unlike some of the lecture-heavy formats I was used to, UVA courses encouraged students to speak up, question ideas, and engage with the material on a deeper level. I particularly enjoyed a course called Cinema As An Art Form, where we not only watched films but also analyzed their themes, editing, and cinematography in detail. The professor created a really open environment for sharing ideas, such as the extra credit for watching the silent film in the cinema, and the professor scored the silent film on the piano.

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

Yes, I would recommend taking advantage of the student ticket offers through the UVA Arts Box Office. As a UVA student, you can attend a wide range of arts performances for free or at very low cost—this includes theatre productions, dance performances, and classical music concerts.

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

Make the most of student perks.

UVA offers a lot of free or discounted resources for students, from gym access to free tickets for arts performances and campus events. 

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?

$-USD, Except for the cost of living, such as meals and housing, the budget is at least $17,000.

What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?

Experiencing a different style of undergraduate education in another country broadened my perspective.