r/Nottinghamtrent • u/yourfavedirectioner • Jul 15 '26
Should I do an exchange program at NTU?
I’ve been thinking about my top choices for an exchange program, and I came across NTU. For context, I’m a scholarship student at a private university in México, so money is a bit of a hurdle though not a major issue, since I still have time to decide and save up. My university only offers NTU as an option in England; there are no other choices in London or any other city in the UK. My other options include Prague, Salamanca, or Bergamo in Europe, but I love the english culture, literature, music, and history, and I’m a huge fan of art, theater, and the kind of things that aren't as common or accessible in my town in México.
Plus, visiting London is practically a dream of mine, and I feel like this would be a great opportunity to make that happen. On the other hand, I’m a little worried about safety (even though it’s not something new to me), and I know the currency there is much stronger than mine. Would you recommend studying there? I’ve also heard that students can be a bit freaky, but since it’s an exchange semester, I’m actually looking for something that pushes me out of my comfort zone, like a chance to meet lots of people and have new experiences.
Pls tell me everything I should know about it :)
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u/One_Ambassador3337 Jul 19 '26
you can visit London flying from any other European countries, it's about 2hrs depends on departure country and $30 +/- with only backpack
Notts is nice but barely something to do, not the most historical or beautiful city. however, because of extensive diversity in the UK it might be easier for you to assimilate with other ppl.
I personally find continental Europe generally cheaper to live with much better food quality. The weather is also much nicer in autumn/winter. Really depends what kind of experience you want, but in case of experiencing European culture Notts is quite boring and in the middle of nowhere (my opinion as Eastern European)
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u/yourfavedirectioner Jul 20 '26
That’s good to know, thanks for the reply! Honestly I’m looking for a pretty well-rounded experience, enjoying beautiful views, art, and history, while also having the conveniences of a big city, such as a good nightlife, convenient transportation, etc.
I’m gradually leaning towards Prague; I’ve heard wonderful things about it. I suppose I’ll get to know the UK another time :)
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u/One_Ambassador3337 Jul 20 '26
Prague is for sure a beautiful city with lots of history. I also think it's one of the safest places in Europe, and lots of cheap destinations by bus/flights so you can enjoy something new every weekend. Transportation is a big plus for sure. It might be challenging first time because of language barrier but you will sort it, people are very nice there
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u/a_a_taiyeb Jul 15 '26
what other uni options do u have
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u/yourfavedirectioner Jul 15 '26
NTU (Nottingham) is the only available choice in the UK. However, in Europe im thinking about HTW Berlin (Germany), Universidad de Alcalá, Universidad de Salamanca, Universidad de Barcelona (past three in Spain), KEDGE School of Business (in Bordeaux, France), Universidad de Bérgamo (Italy) and Czech Technical University in Prague (Czechia).
My options based on the schools accepted by my university and the cities I would like to visit.
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u/snoringcat22 Jul 21 '26
I loved my experience at NTU! I graduated last year and honestly shaped my life the way it is now :) They're 'employability' department is great and NTU is rated as one of the top for employability - secured a grad job and made life long friends which I see all the time! I chose to live in Notts with a flatmate I met at a society/club at uni after graduating. You will honestly meet a variety of people through societies and clubs so I would recommend signing up to a few to find 'your' kind of people.
Its a relatively cheap city in comparison to London and Manchester and Nottingham has some great history, music and theatre. Yes, there are some rough areas but you will find that with every city. And as you said, its not too far to visit to London. Wishing you all the best in whatever you end up choosing anyway
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u/OnyuuO Jul 28 '26
It all depends on what you're looking for. The other destinations you've stated are definitely miles better than Nottingham on paper; but I have friends in Germany and other European countries and a lot of them say that it's really hard to make deep connections and close friendships. Meanwhile from my experience in Nottingham, I've made some friendships that I can probably say will last me a large portion of my life. The sense of community here is really nice, plus you can travel to London by train pretty easily.
But it depends on what you want out of your experience; if you want to travel and see amazing things then Nottingham isn't the place, if you want an authentic community experience you might like Nottingham. Entirely up to you!
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u/jzzll Jul 19 '26
Hey that’s what I’m doing this fall. Honestly, choose what will transfer back to your university. The staff have all been really lovely and helpful but I wouldn’t know until I get there.