Sarah Canning

University Degree Title: Chemistry with a year in North America (MChem)
Host University: University at Buffalo SUNY
Year of Study Abroad: Third Year

Where did you live? Would you recommend it?

I lived in a residence hall, a "dorm". I would recommend it for convenience, but it did mean living with people up to 3 years younger than me.

Which department(s) did you study in?

Chemistry department, and one course from Medical Technology

How does the workload/classes/teaching styles vary to Sheffield?

Teaching is more 'classroom' style than Sheffield - the classes are smaller, and there is more interaction with the Professors. There are a lot more exams than Sheffield, like midterms & finals, but there is less pressure on each.

What did you do for fun/ at weekends / holidays?

Travel! I visited New York City, Toronto, and spent Spring Break in Miama and the Bahamas!! You wouldn't get an opportunity like this studying for all your course in Sheffield.

Did you join any societies or clubs?

I joined my Residence Hall Council as treasurer, and got to spend the University's money on events. I also became a radio DJ doing a weekly show on the University Station. It was so much fun!!

Describe the University/City/things to do

SUNY Buffalo is big and very international. It is a fairly typical north east US city, and has some very nice parts. As it is very very cold and snowy in the Winter, it's a great place to go if you like winter sports.

Could you give any travel or immigration tips?

Always pack a toothbrush and a change of 'undies' in your hand-luggage - I got stuck in Charlotte Airport for 3 days and wish I'd done this!!

Could you give any advice or tips to a student preparing to go or tell them anything you wished you knew in advance?

Be willing to try everything once and don't rely on staying in your comfort zone - you will regret it. It's ok to be scared before you go, but make sure you enjoy the time you spend there!

Would you say it is cheaper or more expensive to live than Sheffield?

Accomodation was comparable to Sheffield, but the cost of living (food, clothes etc) was generally cheaper in America.