University of Calgary
Canada
SP2, 2014
Bachelor of Social Work, Bachelor of International Relations
UniSA has a formal agreement with the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Calgary, which meant that I could complete my first social work placement through the host university.
The university is quite different to UniSA. The resources available on campus were impressive (state of the art library, gym, ice-skating rink, food court, post office, medical centre, pharmacy, pubs etc) and students really do not need to leave campus for anything. UofC staff are incredibly helpful and accommodating, in particular their International Team were more than happy to meet with students, respond to individual questions and follow up on requests to ensure that students are supported.
The majority of Canadian students prepare for their classes extensively beforehand. Students are required to complete a number of small assessments throughout the semester (generally worth 5 – 20% each).
I have increased confidence that I will be able to successfully navigate life after university. The opportunity to live abroad for six months has also instilled confidence that I am well prepared to move interstate or overseas in the future.
UofC offers a number of accommodation options, from living on campus to a private rental database. I chose a private rental which I found through rentfaster.ca. I paid $CAN600 a month for a fully furnished room two train stops away from the university. Utilities (gas, electricity and internet) cost an extra $80 - $120 per month and mobile phone was $50 per month. Staying in private accommodation meant that I met people outside of the university and maintained my independence, something that I feel I wouldn’t have managed so much on campus.
Students pay a mandatory $117 fee (similar to SSAF) which entitles you to use Calgary public transport without purchasing a ticket.
I travelled to Vancouver and to Banff a couple of times each. I also visited Vancouver Island, Seattle, San Diego, and San Francisco.
Canada is similar to Australia in many ways and I adjusted relatively quickly. The most difficult adjustment was the weather - in winter Calgary can reach temperatures of minus 40. For the first 4 five months of my exchange (January to May) there was snow on the ground and the temperature was nearly always below zero. I met new people through university classes, housemates and placement.
Yes. Undertaking a student exchange demonstrates that a student is open to academic and personal challenges, that the student has a global perspective and is adaptable to new environments.
Social work students considering a placement in Canada should be aware that at UofC the majority of social work students have extensive experience in the field which means that securing a decent placement position is very competitive. Although the cost of living is lower in Calgary you will likely spend much more money than you usually would on trips, outings, food and drink etc.
Take as much money as you possibly can.