BSc (Hons) Marketing student Curtis Howkins completed a study exchange semester at EDHEC Business School in Lille, France during the 2020-21 academic year. He shares his experience of living abroad during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“University life has brought its challenges, but an exchange programme in another country with very little ability in regard to the French language, all under COVID restrictions is definitely an experience I will never forget.”

“I took a blend of marketing and business-related courses at EDHEC. The expectations for students were very high. Students were required to read large case studies or similar material before most classes to discuss and apply the findings at length with lecturers and other students. At first, I thought this workload was tough, but I got used to it rather quickly and started to enjoy the additional readings and found myself learning more efficiently.”

“Although bars and restaurants were closed throughout my time at EDHEC, taking away that aspect of the cultural experience, we exchange students often met up for drinking parties on campus and picnics in the park. This was a great way to still be social and meet new people even throughout the restrictions. I can safely say I have made lifelong friends from this experience abroad.”

“I would recommend this experience to others. Even under COVID restrictions, I was able to immerse myself into the culture, make new life-long friends of many nationalities, and enhance my global awareness whilst positively contributing to job opportunities in the future.”

“I would reassure a student studying abroad that the support necessary to their leap of faith is there from the two universities for you from start to finish. Most issues or concerns you may have are easily solved through a simple email or two.”

You can read more about Curtis’ experience whilst in Lille on his blog.

If you are interested in applying to take part in a BU study exchange during the 2023/24 academic year, the second call for applications is open from 15 May 2023. You can find out more about the programme and the different funding options on the BU website.