During the academic year 2023-2024, 72 students across all of BGU's faculties will participate in the Student Exchange Program operated by BGU International. Students will be studying abroad across Europe, North and South America, and for the first time in Australia, Mexico, and Morocco.
The Student Exchange Program at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev provides students with the opportunity to study abroad for a semester or a year during their studies. Participation in the program gives students an international academic experience, an opportunity to experience studying in English, allows them to make connections and exposes them to different cultures.
Recently, BGU International held two events for students participating in the 2023-2024 Exchange Program.
Last month, BGU International hosted an evening event at Rosa Bar during which outgoing students gathered with students who have recently returned from exchange semesters. The event was an informal way for students to get to know one another and share information. Throughout the evening, outgoing students connected with other BGU students who are headed to the same destination country, and they also received advice from students who have just returned from an experience abroad and were happy to share their tips.
Earlier this week, BGU International hosted a preparatory meeting for outgoing students in which the students gained practical tools for their upcoming experiences. BGU's Head of Investigations and Information Security, Avi Kapel, gave a security briefing and explained what simple actions students can take to stay safe during their time abroad.
Tamir Oren, the Founder of the Noga Study Abroad Consulting Firm, conducted an interactive workshop on self-presentation, cultural gaps, handling difficult questions, and training on building communication with lecturers at the host universities. The meeting concluded with a briefing on procedures and guidelines, and additional time for Q&A.
Rebecca Weiss, a Management & Communications student who is planning a semester exchange at the University of Antwerp in Fall 2023, shares: “The events made me excited for my exchange! I had the opportunity to share my goals and plans with other students and heard some great tips from students who had just returned from the same destination. The evenings were very successful and made me realize that the experience is coming up quickly!"
