Participating in the exchange program at Boston University was a life-changing experience that influenced my personal development significantly. It has helped me step outside of my comfort zone by exposing me to new environments, meeting diverse groups of students, and engaging with different cultural norms.
This experience taught me valuable life skills like resilience, adaptability, independence, and the ability to embrace change. Being away from my family and friends made me appreciate their support and love even more.
It provided me with the opportunity to learn from diverse people, think critically and holistically, and learn about a different culture. I am endlessly grateful to Khalifa University for affording me the opportunity to participate in the exchange program.
Living abroad forced me to step outside of my comfort zone and learn to face new circumstances including experiencing Eid Al Adha away from family, besides communicating with individuals from different backgrounds and representing myself confidently.
Studying abroad broadened my horizons and changed who I am today. This valuable opportunity will hopefully be not the last but the starting point toward more achievements and opportunities in my academic career.
Studying at Boston University was an extraordinary adventure that has left an indelible impact on my life. The academic excellence, cultural immersion, and personal growth I experienced during my time at BU have prepared me to face the challenges of the future with confidence and an open heart.
I will forever cherish the memories and friendships made during this incredible journey and remain grateful for the enriching experiences that have shaped the person I am today.
My study abroad experience at the Georgia Institute of Technology last spring was absolutely incredible. It was hands down the best experience of my life! Being there changed the way I see things.
I chose Georgia Tech because they have a top-ranked Civil Engineering program, great teachers, and lots of chances to do research. Plus, the campus is all about trying new stuff and being creative. Being in a new place made me do things I don't usually do at home, like washing dishes and cleaning my apartment. But it was worth it because I got to meet people from everywhere and learn how to be more independent.
Even though it took some time to get used to things like the cost of living and tipping, it was all part of the adventure. Studying abroad is something I think everyone should try. It totally changed my life! I want to say a big thank you to the Study Abroad office and the Ministry of Education for making it happen.
Four months into my semester abroad, KU feels like a second home. A little backstory: when I planned my exchange, my university didn't yet have a program in the region, so I took it upon myself to liaise with both KU鈥檚 and my home university鈥檚 outstanding study abroad departments to organize the exchange from scratch.
The results did not disappoint. Not only were the people and the culture absolutely incredible (yes, the warm Arabic hospitality is real) but the hands-on, engineering oriented courses also perfectly complemented my prior studies. From Robotics over Algorithms to AI and Computational Physics, the many projects gave me valuable insights and inspiration on how science can drive the newest, cutting edge technology.
I am immensely grateful for the genuine, lasting friendships I was blessed with along the way and look forward to many more visits to the UAE.
I have been on exchange at KU for one semester, what impressed me most when I first came here was the first day of meeting, the teachers at KU carefully and patiently introduced everything about KU and the UAE, and organized a series of games to break the ice for all the exchange students, and we became friends with exchange students from different countries, after that KU organized trips for the exchange students, and took us to places of interest in the UAE, where the teachers and the students were all very friendly, and you could ask Maryam if you had any questions, I am very happy to be able to go on exchange here, and I hope that I will have the opportunity to come to the UAE again.
My study abroad journey at Khalifa University has been an enriching experience, marked by rigorous academic excellence and warm hospitality, exceeding my expectations. Against the environment of the UAE's diverse landscapes, from expansive deserts to modern skyscrapers, I've found a welcoming environment that fosters both intellectual curiosity and personal growth. Feeling secure in this inclusive community has allowed me to fully engage with the rich traditions and vibrant cultures through attending different expos about the UAE and other countries in the region. Whether navigating through different cities or testing local cuisines, I've been embraced by the warmth and openness of local friends ready to show me around and share about their traditions, deepening my understanding of humanity's shared connections. In the classroom, Khalifa University's commitment to academic rigor has challenged me to think critically and expand my perspectives, particularly in courses like the History of Islamic Culture. This journey has not only broadened my knowledge but also instilled in me a profound belief in the transformative power of cross-cultural exchange and exploration
My time studying abroad at UTP Petronas in Malaysia changed me in ways I didn't expect, pushing me to grow as a person as well as academically. I learned how to get around and fit in with new people and institutions when I moved to a new cultural and educational setting. This trip helped me become much more independent and improve my capacity for communication.
Interacting with students from diverse backgrounds, both local and international, enhanced my ability to communicate effectively across cultures. These conversations weren't just about schoolwork; we talked about personal goals, ideas, and events from our lives, which helped me understand things better and see things from different points of view. Living and learning abroad presented me with new difficulties, such as balancing my studies, daily tasks, and social exchanges on my own. These experiences helped me become more independent and confident. This experience has helped me become more flexible and ready for the challenging global work world I will likely face in the future.
Overall, studying abroad at UTP Petronas wasn't just about learning new things; it was also about becoming a stronger, more capable, and more worldly person who is ready to face new obstacles with a bigger picture and a strong will.
Studying in Malaysia was an unexpected journey that profoundly enriched my life. Nestled in the state of Perak, specifically in Seri Iskandar, I was immersed in the vibrant Malaysian culture. The experience was a delightful contrast to my native United Arab Emirates. Malaysian cuisine, a tantalizing array of Asian dishes, became a daily exploration of flavors.
Beyond academics, my friends and I embarked on numerous adventures, discovering the country's diverse landscapes and urban dynamics. We wandered through Kuala Lumpur, a city that dazzles with never-ending lights and the constant motion of metros. Each journey through Malaysia's wilderness offered a new perspective on the stark differences in culture and climate compared to back home.
From the bustling city life to the serene natural settings, Malaysia presented a tapestry of experiences that were both enlightening and exhilarating. The country's rich cultural mosaic and warm hospitality made every moment memorable. It was truly a cherished chapter of discovery and friendship in Southeast Asia.
The study abroad experience exceeded all my expectations, and I would eagerly do it again in a heartbeat. It was incredibly worthwhile; it significantly boosted my confidence and self-determination, making me believe in my ability to overcome challenging tasks.
Over the past five months, I have grown tremendously. I learned a great deal about myself, other people, and my field of study. I had the privilege of meeting passionate professors, forming loving friendships, and reconnecting with old friends in the US. The warm welcome I received at UF was truly delightful, making it an unexpectedly perfect choice for me. Living independently, I have become more flexible, determined, and capable of handling pressures alongside my studies. Although this experience has deepened my appreciation for home-cooked meals, my high school friends, and my family, it has only made this program even more valuable.
This experience taught me that I can be both academically and socially involved, and that a balance does indeed exist, which will greatly affect my future social and academic lives. I also am no longer fearful of completing my education abroad, and have full confidence in my abilities to deal with difficulty individually. In fact, I will be doing my summer internship abroad in Japan!
I鈥檓 excited to see where the knowledge I gained from this experience will take me
My study abroad experience at the University of California, Berkeley, was a unique and fruitful journey of personal and academic growth, enriched by diverse cultural interactions and new perspectives. This experience has given me a broader worldview and an enhanced ability to adapt to different environments, which will be invaluable in my future academic pursuits and career. The diverse interactions and experiences have also strengthened my social skills and cultural sensitivity, which will benefit my personal relationships and professional collaborations.
Studying at Berkeley has also given me a fresh perspective to bring back to Khalifa University in the UAE. The lessons learned and experiences gained will undoubtedly enhance my approach to education and my future endeavors.
Studying at the University of Minnesota has been the best decision I've ever made. This journey has profoundly influenced both my academic and personal growth in ways I never expected . I've learned to embrace independence and consistently push myself out of my comfort zone. Immersed in a culture vastly different from my own, I gained invaluable insights into American culture. Moreover, the classes I've taken have provided me with a wealth of knowledge, and I feel confident in my understanding of the various subjects I've been exposed to during my studies. Beyond the classroom, the vibrant campus life at the University of Minnesota has provided countless opportunities for personal development and forging lifelong connections with peers from around the world. From exploring the scenic beauty of the Twin Cities to engaging in meaningful discussions with professors and classmates, every moment has left an indelible mark on my journey. Studying Abroad has not only equipped me with invaluable knowledge and skills but has also instilled in me a deeper sense of resilience, adaptability, and cultural empathy that will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors.
My summer at Stanford was an unforgettable and enriching experience. Taking Microbiology and Cancer Biology made me more passionate about understanding life sciences. The combination of expert teaching and hands-on learning brought these subjects to life in a powerful way. What made the experience truly special was the diverse and inclusive community. As a Muslim student, I felt fully supported through accessible prayer spaces, welcoming associations, and a broader culture of respect for faith and individuality. I connected with students from around the world and found meaningful conversations and friendships in every setting.聽 With its stunning campus, vibrant community, and academic environment, Stanford became a place where I could grow and be inspired. It鈥檚 an experience I鈥檒l always carry forward with me.
Looking back, my semester at Texas Tech was a transformative experience that exceeded my expectations. It broadened my horizons, deepened my understanding of other cultures, and helped me grow academically and personally. The friends I made, the lessons I learned, and the memories I created will stay with me for a lifetime. One of the most significant academic takeaways from my time at Texas Tech was the hands-on, project-based approach to education. Participating in the HackWesTX 2024 hackathon was another highlight of my semester. In addition, I worked as a research assistant in a professor鈥檚 lab. This experience solidified my interest in pursuing research and opened new possibilities for my academic journey. This experience has inspired me to approach future challenges with curiosity and an open mind. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of the Texas Tech community, and I look forward to applying the skills and insights I gained to all aspects of my life moving forward.
Before arriving at KU as an exchange student from Italy, I expected to experience a huge culture shock. However, at the exact moment that the other exchange students were welcomed to the university, I understood that I was way off as the whole Study Abroad Team and our Tutors made us feel at home from day 1. Following that, the semester became easily the best period of my life up to this point: not only I had the chance to study with some inspiring professors, but I was also able to enjoy my time in UAE while doing so through lots of fun activities organized by the university and made long-lasting friendships from all over the world. For this reason, going back, I would 100% pick KU again for my exchange semester. To all the incoming students, I want to say this: say yes to every activity that you can do; they will make your experience unforgettable! Thank you, Khalifa University. See you soon, inshallah!
My experience at KU was truly extraordinary. I had the chance to engage with different cultures and explore unique lifestyles, all while enjoying unforgettable moments. This exchange program, in my opinion, offers emotions and opportunities that go far beyond those of a typical Erasmus program, especially for someone like me coming from a European country. I was deeply impressed by the efficiency and dynamism of the UAE, a country that blends tradition and innovation seamlessly. I would recommend this experience to anyone looking to expand their horizons, both personally and professionally. I sincerely hope to return one day and work in this incredible country that has left such a positive impact on me.
Perhaps the greatest lesson I took away from studying abroad was the importance of saying 鈥測es鈥� to opportunities. Whether it was exploring a new city, trying a different approach in class, or joining conversations with people I had just met, each decision to engage brought me growth. I left the United States with not only memories of breathtaking places and inspiring experiences, but also a renewed sense of who I am and what I am capable of.
Personally, I have grown tremendously. I have had meaningful conversations about faith, identity, and the world, and I鈥檝e gained a deeper sense of empathy and global awareness. Professionally, I believe this experience has broadened my perspective and made me more adaptable, traits that will serve me well in any career path I choose. I鈥檝e become more responsible, more confident, and more willing to challenge myself beyond my comfort zone. Most importantly, I鈥檝e come to understand what it truly means to be an engineer with a global perspective - one who empathizes with others and makes conscientious, informed decisions.
