Thinking about stamping your passport through Teesside University’s exciting study abroad programmes?
Find out what you can expect with events management student Tee as they unpack their trip to Malaysia, from quad biking in the jungle to quality time with elephants…
Guest blog: Tee Bramley
Tee is no stranger to studying abroad, having spent a month in Seattle and a year in Prague before their latest journey to Malaysia.
As I was floating in the sea, relaxing with the gentle movement of the waves, I paused to take in the breathtaking scenery around me. When you’re surrounded by gorgeous beaches dotted with coconut trees, you can’t help but reflect on how you got here – the views of Kuantan in the Pahang region of Malaysia are a far cry from life back home, spent mostly in lecture halls and seminar classrooms as I work towards achieving my degree in Events Management.
It all started in my first year when I learned about the study abroad opportunities at Teesside University in an email. I remember thinking how invaluable something like that would be for me, as I plan on working within the events and tourism sector. Had I not checked my inbox that day, my life wouldn’t be the same…
That year, I was able to study in Seattle, where I was inspired on a trip to Mount Rainier to choose my dissertation topic ready for my final year. It was while sitting in my host family’s garden that I sent an email to find out about further opportunities for travel through the University – I couldn’t even wait until I got home!
Next, I spent a year in Prague. I fell in love with the city and made some of the best memories. I really enjoyed my time studying modules not usually included in my course. It was while studying there, once again not giving myself chance to go home first, that I received the email about the programmes for this year and applied to study in Malaysia.
Fast forward to being accepted and heading to the airport. I packed all of the essentials – clothes, sun cream, bug spray, a first aid kit – and a couple of non-essentials too. I didn’t leave the house without my blister plasters.
Once I arrived in Malaysia after the 13 hour-long flight, I got stuck into the activities. They were really varied, allowing me to experience true Malaysian culture. This trip really increased my intercultural awareness, something which will help me as I seek graduate employment going forward.
Choosing a favourite activity would be impossible, but let’s start with my visit to the elephant sanctuary, where we were able to feed and touch the elephants. Their skin was rougher than I expected, but they were so gentle, especially when they were taking food out of our hands. They were absolutely adorable, and we even met a baby! The experience was magical.
I took the journey into high gear when I went jet skiing and quad biking through the jungle. I sped through the rainforest and saw a beautiful waterfall up close. I also tried Batik painting, visited Little India, spotted alligators on a sightseeing tour and took part in a Malaysian cookery lesson.
Something that makes Kuala Lumpur so special is the way various cultures come together, giving a taste of so many different places while having a cultural identity all of its own. The best way to explain this is through the food. Did you know that ‘how are you?’ translates directly to ‘did you eat?’ in the Malay language?
As well as nasi lemak (fragrant rice, chilli and egg) and other Malaysian meals, I tried Japanese ramen (noodles) and wagyu steak, Korean fried chicken, Thai tom yum (soup) and so much more. The night markets are a hub where you can buy small portions of different dishes to get a flavour of lots of different delicacies. I definitely recommend the barbecue dishes and the fried ice cream!
Our host university, Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), was amazing too. Upon completing the study abroad programme, we were awarded certificates in a ceremony and had a farewell dinner with all the staff and students together, which made the trip even more special.
My time in Malaysia was fantastic. The culture, climate and food are so different to anything I’ve ever experienced. As much as this trip took me out of my comfort zone, with a new challenge every day, the hardest part of it all was boarding the plane home – I just wanted to stay forever!
At least arriving home is not the end of my journey with Teesside University Global. The team offers loads of support when you return. I have an upcoming returners event, where I can meet up with all of my friends from the trip and gain important help with how to use this experience in job applications and interviews. I am also going to be a global buddy, supporting a student during their own study abroad programme.
This may seem like stating the obvious, but I would highly recommend this programme (and others) to students who are considering it. The programme really is a lifesaver. I understand it can seem scary at first, and it is, but in the best way possible.
A month might not seem like a long time, but you come home feeling like a whole new person, or at least understanding yourself more than you might have when you set off. I’m still blown away by how much I grew and developed on this trip.
As a first-generation university student, my family are astounded by the opportunities I have had and the scholarship support which has allowed me to participate.
So go for it! The application process itself is relatively simple, especially now I’ve gone through it three times, and the Teesside University Global team was always on hand to support. I wrote about why I wanted to go, why I would be a good ambassador for the University and how I felt the programme would develop me both personally and professionally. I expanded on this in my interview.
Rest assured, the interview process was very relaxed. While I had butterflies in my stomach, the interviewer put me at ease right away. I’d recommend taking the time to reflect on why you want to take part in a study abroad programme to prepare for the interview. Maybe try some breathing exercises too if you get nervous like I do.
Take it from someone who’s life has been changed three times over, applying to study abroad is the best decision you can make!
Fancy embarking on a new adventure, exploring new places, boosting your skills, building lasting friendships and making some core memories through a study abroad programme?
You could be one of hundreds of Teesside University students who will have the opportunity to study, work or volunteer in more than 20 countries in the next academic year. Watch this space…