You learn the importance of regular communication across time zones - a practice transferable to my current work position where I manage relations globally.

Why did you choose to study this course? 

Only at the University of Sheffield can you do a study abroad and placement year within four years, and when I visited Sheffield for the Open Day, it was the only campus I visited where you could tell every volunteer was proactively cheerful and happy to be there, which made Sheffield stand out like night and day.

How did you decide where you wanted to go on your year abroad? 

I always thought I would study abroad within Europe, but seeing all the highly ranked international universities offering a place I chose Florida International University (FIU), not only because it's number two for International Business in the US, but I would still experience a second language culture (South Florida is mainly Spanish speaking).

How did you adapt to life in a different country? 

There's no denying that moving to a different country/continent comes with many adaptations - for Miami that was time! Down to the latin American culture and heat, most lectures began at 17:00 and you'd only have dinner at 22:00, but you soon learnt to enjoy the day before university (i.e. go for a trip, play sport, gym etc).

What was your experience of undertaking a placement? 

Although I made a few applications whilst abroad, I made the conscious decision to prioritise an international competition that my university was partaking in and resume applications when I returned to the UK in the summer - still securing a dream placement. I'd highly recommend applying at the moment the application window opens, but rest assured that hope is not lost if you're unsuccessful in the earlier months.

What were your top three highlights whilst studying abroad?

• A lads trip into the North Carolina mountains at Springbreak.
• Playing beach volleyball and chilling by the pool everyday before lectures.
• Fort Lauderdale Boat Show.

What did you gain from your year abroad and placement that might help in your future career?

• Academically, I was taught Sales, Finance and Real Estate all by top industry professionals - academics which I have already greatly applied to be successful during my following placement year & continued international travel.
• Learning to adapt to new cultures which are unfamiliar.
• By living abroad away from family and friends, you learn the importance of regular communication across time zones - a practice transferable to my current work position where I manage relations globally.

What would you say to someone who was unsure about spending a period of time studying abroad?

No brainer... just go do it! You'll return with the luxury of having friends worth flying for, endless experiences/stories, a camera roll of memories and a heightened perception of the world outside the UK.

What is the one thing you wish you'd known before you left?

Before leaving my time abroad: Not to be complacent, and always make the most of your time out there!