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I can still recall the one time I actually invited a couple of exchange students – doing a common subject from the university I was enrolled in –  to my home as part of a study group with a number of other Malaysians. I don’t know how I did it but they obliged without hesitation! I thought it would also be a good idea for the exchange students to get a feel of what our residences in Malaysia look like. And of course, somewhere in between, we found ourselves nibbling on some samosa and vadai and sipping cups of Malaysian coffee.

My point is, I’m grateful to have studied at an international university that also offers a variety of exchange programmes, one of which is the intercampus exchange programme that will be the focus of this article. Through these exchange programmes, I got to meet and network with a few of those who managed to make me view the world from several angles as well as solidify my communication skills. If only I had more time to spend with them in a non-study-related context.

Before going on an intercampus exchange programme:

• Ensure that you’re physically and mentally healthy.
• Students are required to complete their first year of undergraduate studies.
• Double-/Triple-check that you’re paying your tuition fees in the currency of the location of your home campus (where you’re originally enrolled at/you’ll return to upon successful completion of the exchange programme).
• Be sure to set aside enough to cover transportation, travel, telecommunications, food, accommodation, shopping, and all the necessary costs.
• Know that you must maintain a certain grade point average and have an adequate number of subjects to fill your time in your semester(s).
• Take note of the Immigration Laws (if applicable).

A couple of people were more than happy to share their experiences with me. Yes, we’re still in touch, even after many years out of university!

Dané Smith, a language instructor based in Oman

For Dané Smith, who grew up as an expatriate’s daughter, her decision to be on an exchange programme was quite a straightforward one. Besides being a requirement for her to spend at least a semester abroad to complete her degree, she saw the exchange programme as an opportunity to further expose herself to unfamiliar spaces and situations. When asked why she picked Malaysia, she revealed that her reasons include the stark difference in culture between South Africa and Malaysia, general multicultural make-up found in the country, as well as its cost-effectiveness of living and studying in Malaysia. Asked about whether she felt at ease when she first arrived on campus, she said that the campus had a fruitful welcome session. “Generally, the support given by those involved was wonderful,” she said. “It goes without saying that the farewell session was great as well,” Smith continued. For someone who values her sleep, Smith noted, “The underlying pulse that beats across towns and cities in Malaysia was so much more stimulating than what I had expected that I hardly slept while I was there!” She added, “I also liked being able to eat delicious meals well into the early mornings.” In fact, she started learning and developing an interest in the Brazilian martial art Capoeira through joining the respective club on campus grounds in Malaysia. She was also introduced to destinations like Kanching Rainforest and Kuala Besut thanks to the kindness and hospitality of her Malaysian friends. Even after having spent two semesters in Malaysia, Smith will tell you: I wish I could stay longer!

A rare sight these days- the colourful mini bus

Sharing similar sentiments as Smith is the Tanzania-based Australian Jessica Blundell, who was part of a course that also made it compulsory for her to attend at least one semester at a campus other than the one(s) she is used to. As she put it, “I figured that an exchange programme would be the perfect measure to determine if I liked living away from home, and if I could make it on my own.” Blundell, who had previously embarked on a homestay exchange programme to Japan at high school level, said choosing Malaysia as a destination came relatively easy, as she was also familiar with the tropical lifestyle. She added, “My parents were happy to have me close to home.” Concurring with Smith on the fact that the relevant support was given to exchange students who had just arrived on campus, she said, “It was helpful to know of a few friendly faces that we could ask questions of and have lunch with while settling in.” Notably, Blundell highlighted that it was through the exchange programme that she met her current partner (pictured), who was on exchange to Malaysia as well from the branch campus in South Africa! In fact, for their love of thrills and adventures, they’ve moved away from their comfort zones to live in Tanzania.  When asked if she had challenges while staying in Malaysia, she said: While all the curries, oils, and sauces helped boost the flavours of the dishes and food I ordered, what I was served became too rich for me, after some time. She clarified that the on-campus student accommodation somehow had limited cooking facilities. Further, she said, “I found the Malay Language a challenge to grasp.”

Jessica Blundell and her friends (on exchange) getting ready to devour thosai

Outside of class, a few local Malaysians brought her to some night markets and their houses for Eid celebrations. She also participated in activities like Futsal, where she thoroughly enjoyed the tournament that was held towards the end of the semester. When asked if she managed to go on trips while on the programme, she said with a laugh, “We went on so many trips that it almost became a running joke amongst the lecturers!” Asked if she had anything else to add, she stated: “The exchange programme, even if it’s just for a semester, is definitely recommended as it will let you build your confidence and self-reliance.”