When Waverly Chan wandered through the Student Success Centre’s Exchange and Global Opportunities Fair in her first year, she was more curious than committed.
The Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour student dreamt of studying abroad one day, but was intimidated by the idea of travelling solo and far from home.
“I grew up in the GTA, so it’s easy to call my parents for advice or drive home if something happens,” said Chan.
“But being abroad — so far away, in a different country and time zone — I worried about navigating everything on my own. I’ve only ever travelled abroad with family.”
Chan was curious about what it would be like to stay in one place instead of just passing through, but with her program requirements, she wasn’t sure she could do an exchange.
Until she heard about McMaster’s featured summer opportunities.
Part of McMaster’s independent study abroad program, featured summer opportunities are hosted by a McMaster exchange partner, but are separate from fall and winter exchange agreements.
These programs include daily lectures, class excursions and the opportunity to study new subjects from a different cultural perspective.
This year, McMaster has partnered with universities in Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Singapore and the United Kingdom to offer condensed summer programs open to students around the world.
Chan discovered the Leeds International Summer School program (LISS) in an online information session presented by the SSC’s International and Exchange Student Experience team (IESE).
The four-week LISS program included two separate modules, on-campus accommodation, most meals and excursion costs, making it an easy choice for Chan.
“It was the perfect opportunity for me.”
At LISS, Chan’s modules included the Social History of English Country Houses, and Mental Health Issues and the Media.
With class sizes of just 20 to 30 students, she had plenty of opportunities to get to know her classmates through group projects and class discussions.
“I was a bit worried about meeting people, kind of like when I was starting my first year here at Mac,” Chan admits.
“But once I was there, I realized that everyone was really open and friendly. I was able to make a few good friends this summer.”
(Photo by Waverly Chan)
And as part of their studies, Chan and her classmates had a chance to visit a few historic estates, including Harewood House, an English country home featured in the 2019 Downton Abbey movie.
“These field trips made me realize what a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity this was to study abroad. To see a place that I’ve only seen in movies, and to have a chance to get to know my classmates a bit more.”
Beyond her fond memories of exploring English gardens, sampling international cuisine, and bonding with new friends in cozy cafes, Chan has returned to McMaster with a different perspective on life.
“I met so many students from around the world who inspired me by sharing their cultures, passions and interests. It made me more outgoing, curious, and open to finding the joy in everyday life,” she said.
“I’ve learned to be brave and do the things I enjoy doing. Even if I have to do it solo, I now know that I can.”
About McMaster’s Study Abroad Program
Study abroad allows students to immerse themselves in another culture while earning academic credit toward their McMaster degrees.
For most summer programs, students must receive approval of a Letter of Permission from their faculty or program office. Full-year and term exchanges are also available through exchange partnerships and independent study abroad programs.
Learn more about opportunities available at the Exchange and Global Experiences Fair in the McMaster University Student Centre Atrium on Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., or visit the IESE Hub in MUSC B118, or online.