Name: Joshua Dairo
Degree: International Business Management
Location(s): Iberoamericana University (Mexico)
Why did you decide to do study abroad?
I decided to study abroad in my second year (second semester only) because I wanted to continue living my passion of travelling to different countries to immerse myself in new cultures and with new people
Why did you decide to go to the university you went to?
I chose Universidad Iberoamericana (Mexico City, Mexico) because I have been fascinated by the culture, people, landmarks and its vibrant atmosphere. Moreover, I wanted to continue improving my Spanish. I knew this was an opportunity to improve my adaptability skills, since there are differences between Latin American Spanish and European Spanish. Mexico has more to offer than people think, since travelling to many tourists' hotspots was also my ambition. There is so much I wasn’t able to do that I am hoping to return to Mexico one day (e.g. visiting places like Oaxaca and Monterrey)!
What was your stand out moment during study abroad?
One of the stand out moments was how much fun I had improving my Spanish in class and outside of school, which has helped me to become more confident with the language. This opportunity has set the foundation I never would have gained if I hadn’t travelled outside the UK. Another highlight was access to the gym and sporting facilities for free!! I exercised and played basketball daily, and am forever grateful.
Was it expensive to study abroad?
It really depends on what you do, where you travel to, how much you’re willing to spend. If you plan ahead, then you won’t risk paying expensive fees for travel and accommodation during your travels for last minute holidays and roadtrips. On the other hand, living costs weren’t so bad either. I was fortunate enough to live 10 mins (by walking) to Ibero, which definitely helped. However, Ibero is situated in Santa Fe, one of the wealthiest areas in Mexico City, so my AirBnb student home came at a price. As long as your wise with how you spend your money, and save in advance, Mexico isn’t far off from the cost of living compared to cities like Newcastle.
Do you think your experience helped you in your studies at Northumbria and your career?
Travelling abroad will help me to look at things from a different perspective and work in ways I previously wouldn't have. By studying abroad, not only have I learnt from Mexican and International students their way of life and how they work, but have learnt how to adapt to different situations that come my way. This is especially important for my future career because I would like to continue working internationally in the quest for global career opportunities.
If you could offer some advice to students thinking of going on study abroad what would you say?
Find the destination that you believe you can thrive in! Don’t be afraid to do what others are avoiding to do (which in my case was studying abroad in my second year so that I can find a work placement (s) for my third year). Do lots of research about a destination (s) that makes you smile and excited. Go somewhere that you’re passionate about and visualise yourself there. Explore what it has to offer regarding the institution (most importantly), activities, cost of living, culture, history, the people, cuisine (I think you get the picture) and what it is like for a foreign student. All the best for your future travels!
