Kristabel standing in front of the Wilfrid Laurier sign
Kristabel with friends in Canada
Join Kristabel as she reflects on her Spring 2026 semester abroad at Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) in Waterloo, Canada. From navigating a new academic system to building lifelong friendships, she shares how studying abroad challenged her, broadened her perspective, and became the defining highlight of her university experience so far.
Degree and study abroad destination
- Degree: BSc (Hons) Business Management, University of Sussex
- Host Institution: Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU), Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Why I chose to study abroad
"Studying abroad has always been something that I wished to do, I began thinking about the opportunity to study abroad whilst in year 11 and when at college. It is something which made me feel excited of the possibilities of discovering a whole new world of not only cultural differences but also academic. I wanted to step out of my comfort zone to experience a different style of business education. Specifically, the collaborative, case-study-driven approach that Canadian Universities are known for. I personally wanted to build a global network, immerse myself in a new culture and prove to myself that I could successfully adapt, thrive and manage my life in an entirely unfamiliar environment."
My experience and what I learned
"My semester at Wilfrid Laurier was both the most challenging and rewarding experience of my university journey. Truthfully, the transition was very difficult. Adapting to a completely unfamiliar environment paired with a very hard curriculum which I was not used to, was a very steep learning curve. The workload was intense and the standards expected in the assessment model forced me to re-evaluate how I study and manage my time.
However, pushing through those academic and personal challenges is where my growth came from and has benefited me tremendously. By overcoming the initial isolation of a new country, engaging with new people and meeting the academic expectations taught me a level of resilience and independence I did not know I was capable of.
While I developed vital practical skills in teamwork and communication through heavy group dynamics, the main takeaway for me was emotional and professional adaptability. I learnt how to keep my feet on the ground when I was overwhelmed and feeling homesick. This is essential in today’s fast-paced international business landscape."
Looking ahead: How studying abroad has shaped my future plans
"As I approach my final year at Sussex, my focus is turning toward postgraduate study and future career paths, specifically looking into master’s programs such as International Business and Human Resource Management. Taking modules such as Organisational Behaviour, Entrepreneurship methods, Business Law and Human Resource Management has really helped me narrow down even more to lay out what future path I want to take.
My time in Canada has been foundational for these plans. It has sparked a deeper interest in how diverse cultural backgrounds influence workplace dynamics and international market strategies. Having concrete, real-world experience of living and studying overseas gives me the confidence to pursue global career opportunities and makes my applications for postgraduate studies stand out by demonstrating independence and a cross-cultural mindset."
Final reflections
"Even though there were hard times during my study abroad it was overall the best experience which I have ever done, I have made memories and friends for life which I will not forget. If I could give one piece of advice to anyone considering a study abroad program, it would be to take the leap. It can feel daunting at first to leave your home university and normality behind, but the personal growth, confidence and global perspective you gain in just one semester are irreplaceable. It has genuinely been the best and defining highlight of my university experience.
Thank you to the University of Sussex, Wilfrid Laurier University and Sussex Study Abroad for enabling this wonderful experience to happen!"