Testing out her wings

When Year 3 undergraduate Aparna GIRI SHANKAR decided to enrol in a Student Exchange Programme (SEP) at the University of Dundee, this presented more than just an opportunity for her to delve into courses and specialisations in life sciences offered at another leading university in this academic field.

For Aparna, who reads Double Majors in Life Sciences and Public Health, the exchange was also a means "to explore independence and adventure" and embrace new experiences as part of her journey of personal growth.

Her SEP was both rewarding and exhilarating. She had the opportunity to advance her knowledge on familiar subjects such as immunology and metabolism, alongside exploring new topics like epithelial and developmental biology, in a learning environment with different teaching styles which "added some level of complexity to academics."

Aparna cites, as standout moments, Burns Night, where she learned the traditional Scottish Ceilidh dance and the opportunity to savour Scotland's national dish, vegetarian Haggis (a savoury pudding). She also took up knitting lessons ?

She says, "Meeting like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life not only expanded my social network, it also expanded my worldview."

As much fun as it was, Aparna experienced her fair share of struggles. Without the structure and comforts of home, she got to test out her wings by taking charge of household responsibilities, navigating unfamiliar environments and learning practical life skills such as  time and financial management. Through these challenges, she "gained a sense of self-sufficiency and resilience."

Establishing a routine helped her to better manage her academic and personal commitments, and her university advisors provided valuable guidance and support to help her make the most of her exchange experience.

She says, "A willingness to learn is key to fully embracing the transformative opportunities offered by the SEP!"