A Day in the Life of an International Exchange Student

29 July 2025

Studying abroad is an adventure like no other. It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, eye-opening, and sometimes downright exhausting. But for international exchange students, each day brings a new lesson—not just in academics but in life itself. Ever wondered what a typical day looks like for these students? Let’s take a deep dive into the daily routine of an international exchange student.

Morning: Waking Up in a New World

The moment the alarm buzzes, an exchange student wakes up to a different reality—one filled with unfamiliar sights, sounds, and sometimes, even smells. Depending on the host country, breakfast might be vastly different from what they’re used to back home.

Imagine a student from the U.S. doing an exchange program in Japan. Instead of cereal or pancakes, they're starting the day with miso soup, rice, and grilled fish. It’s a small cultural shift, but even something as simple as breakfast is a constant reminder that they’re far from home.

For many, mornings also mean preparing for the school day. Some students might have a commute via public transport, which can be an adventure in itself—navigating subway systems in Tokyo, riding bicycles in Amsterdam, or squeezing into buses in Bogotá. Each day starts with learning something new, even before stepping into the classroom.

School Life: A Mix of Challenges and Surprises

Adjusting to a Different Education System

One of the biggest challenges exchange students face is adapting to a new education system. Some countries have a more relaxed approach to teaching, while others emphasize discipline and structure.

For example, in Germany, students address teachers formally and often engage in deep discussions. In South Korea, strict discipline and long school hours can be overwhelming for a foreign student. Each culture has its own way of teaching, and adjusting can take time.

Language Barriers and Breakthroughs

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room—language. Even students with a decent grasp of the local language can struggle with fast-paced lectures, slang, and different accents.

At first, simple things like asking a teacher for clarification or making small talk with classmates can feel nerve-wracking. But over time, exchange students gain confidence. Those early struggles turn into victories—like when they finally understand a joke during class or ace their first oral presentation in a foreign language.

Making Friends Across Borders

Perhaps one of the most exciting parts of being an exchange student is meeting new people. At first, the cultural barrier can feel like a wall, but with time, it becomes a bridge.

Many exchange students find that food, music, or sports help break the ice. A shared love for K-pop, soccer, or even just a mutual dislike for a tough math assignment can spark lifelong friendships.

Lunchtime: A Cultural Exchange on a Plate

Lunch isn't just a meal—it’s an experience. Some schools offer traditional meals, giving exchange students a daily taste of local cuisine, while others might allow students to bring their own food, leading to cultural food swaps.

Picture an exchange student from Brazil sharing pão de queijo (cheese bread) with a friend from France, who introduces them to pain au chocolat. These little moments make cultural exchange more than just a concept—it becomes a lived reality.

Afternoon: Extracurricular Activities and Adventures

School isn’t just about academics; for many exchange students, the true magic happens after classes end.

Trying Out New Hobbies

In many countries, extracurricular activities play a huge role in student life. Some students join sports teams, while others engage in art clubs, debate societies, or volunteer work.

An exchange student in South Korea might try taekwondo, while one in Italy might pick up painting or learn to cook traditional dishes like pasta from scratch. These activities not only help students immerse themselves in the culture but also provide a way to bond with their peers.

Evening: Navigating Homesickness and Staying Connected

As the sun sets, the excitement of the day slows down, and for many exchange students, homesickness starts creeping in. Missing family, friends, and home-cooked meals is natural.

To combat this, many turn to video calls, journaling, or even comfort foods from home (if they can find the ingredients). Over time, though, homesickness fades as the new country starts feeling more like home.

Nighttime: Reflecting and Looking Forward

Before bed, exchange students often reflect on the day’s experiences. Every challenge conquered, every new word learned, and every friend made is a step towards personal growth.

Some might keep a journal, documenting their journey, while others scroll through social media, sharing highlights with friends and family back home. The day may end, but the adventure continues the next morning.

Final Thoughts: A Life-Changing Experience

Being an international exchange student is more than just studying in a different country. It’s about stepping out of comfort zones, embracing the unknown, and growing in ways that textbooks never teach.

Each day is a mix of struggles, victories, and unforgettable memories. And when the program ends, students don’t just return home with souvenirs—they come back with a new perspective on the world and lifelong friendships that span continents.

For those considering becoming an exchange student, one thing is certain: it won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.