My year at the University of Sussex

I have absolutely loved my year at the University of Sussex. I have loved the people and culture, I have loved the classes at uni, and I have loved student life. Brighton is such a vibrant student city, nicknamed "London by sea", Brighton offers both bustling city days- whether you're getting lost in the laines, or down by the pier, or vintage shopping; and non-stop nightlife-with student offers in different clubs for every night of the week.
In terms of the university's exchange program, I felt like the study abroad team had really made an effort to make sure that there was lots of events (especially during the first week of term) to encourage the international students to mingle and make friends. There was definitely a balance between integrating into British culture (with quiz nights, food events, city tours, London trips, etc.) and cultivating the diversity of the international student culture through different socials.
I also think the 'buddy scheme', which links new students to current students, is a good way to combat the loneliness that many students face when they first move to uni.
Coming from Australia, there wasn't too much of a cultural shock, although I was slightly taken aback by the rudeness of some of my tutors- I have since been told this is just British culture, and not to take it personally (although I would recommend that some of the uni staff be a little friendlier... especially for those students who are trying to work out what's what).
The only other thing I struggled with was working out how to pick classes, sometimes the systems can be a little more confusing than I think they need to be- but once I got sorted and settled, there were no issues.
All in all, it has been the time of my life :)