Since returning from my exchange to Scotland last year I have realized there are a lot of misconceptions about a Goodman Exchange. While most of my peers say they are interested in travelling, many of them have some reason that is holding them back. Fortunately, most of these concerns are easy to address. I have dubbed them the Four Cs: Cost, Courses, Co-op, and Concentration. This week, I describe my experience with the Four Cs and how I made everything work out.

Cost

Does it cost more to go on exchange than a semester at Brock? Short answer: yes, but hear me out. Your tuition costs the same because you pay it to Brock. Depending on the city of your host university, rent can be the same or less than St. Catharines. While there are cities where rent is more, Poland, Spain, and Germany are among our more affordable countries to choose from. So, by considering the living costs of where you go, two of your biggest expenses can be very similar to what you currently pay.

Now let’s talk about savings. Most schools do not require you to purchase textbooks as they are available from the library. Food is also typically cheaper in other countries. Talk to our current international students and they will tell you that Canadians pay a lot for food. Additionally, you will get a $500 exchange bursary from Goodman and another $500 if you are an OSAP student. This is usually more than enough to cover a round trip flight back home.

So why do people think exchanges cost so much? It is all about the travel. Weekend getaways to other countries and tourist excursions can add up, but that does not mean you have to limit your experience because of a budget. To manage costs, choose local adventures, book early and travel in groups.

Ultimately, you control your travel costs while an exchange. To keep expenses low, enjoy the country that you chose to save on transportation while gaining the full experience of everything it has to offer.

Courses

Many students are concerned that partner schools do not have the courses they need or they will need to take an extra semester to meet program requirements. The number of courses you take while abroad will depend on the school as different institutions have various credit systems. Typically, the business elective spaces in your program plan are filled with your exchange courses. If there is a particular class you need to take, talk to the Goodman Exchange Office to determine what schools offer equivalent courses. They can ensure you will get the courses you need and that you will not need an extra semester to get missed classes.

Co-op

In a co-op program? That’s great! How about you add some worldly experience to that resumé? While being a co-op student can add some complexity to exchange planning, the Goodman Exchange Office has managed it with ease. The most ideal time for an exchange is the fall semester of fourth year. Remember that your program plan is not rigid. I did an eight-month co-op in third year that shuffled my program sequence. That meant I returned to school in the winter semester of fourth year instead of to a co-op term. This eliminated the stress of finding a placement while abroad. Some students may instead just return to a past employer while others may return to school and do a co-op term in the summer of fourth year. Regardless of your preference, the Co-op Education and Goodman Exchange offices make it work.

Concentration

Travelling the world does not mean you have to sacrifice a concentration. Let Goodman Academic Advising know you want to go on exchange and concentrate. They will provide you with the required courses and can help you shuffle classes in your program plan so you do not miss them while away. It is as simple as that.

So, there you have it. Your biggest exchange concerns really shouldn’t be concerns at all. They are just things to consider. Remember that the earlier you plan for your exchange, the easier it will be. Even if you are in first or second year, book an Academic Advising appointment to learn about how your program plan may be modified so you can adjust your courses now if needed. Ultimately, with a little bit of forward thinking you can get the full Goodman Experience with a Goodman Exchange. There’s no reason not to go. Apply today and get out there!

Contributed by: BBA student Royden Thomson