Experience report by Marco Karpf about his English language study trip to Bournemouth / England

Marco Karpf from Künten AG has completed a language study trip
in Bournemouth / England

Why did you decide to go on a language study trip?

I decided to go on a language study trip because I was fed up with all the learning stress and school pressure that had built up inside me over a long period of time. Inside, I felt the need to clear my head and simply take some time for myself.

In which country and in which city did your language study trip take place?

At the beginning, I wasn't sure where my journey would take me. The world was open to me, but my budget was limited. After a few consultations, I finally decided on the city of Bournemouth in England, not only because of the unbeatable price-performance ratio, but also because of the positive testimonials from former exchange students.

When did you complete your language study trip to England? How long did it last?

I started my trip to England on 01.01.17 in the morning at 10:30 by plane from Geneva to Bournemouth. I spent my last day on the south coast of England on 11.03.17. My exchange therefore lasted 10 weeks.

How satisfied were you with your language study trip? What did you particularly like?

The language stay was a complete success! The personal highlights of my stay were the evening card games with my host parents and friends, the walks on the beach at sunrise and sunset with my girlfriend, who I got to know during the exchange, and the extracurricular excursions to nearby towns and nature reserves.

What did the language study trip do for you personally and for your career?

During my stay, I had contact with a wide variety of people from all over the world and I always appreciated the discussions about country-specific clichés and how many of them are true. After a while, you start to reflect on your own behavior patterns and question them critically. The language stay enabled me to significantly improve my English skills in all areas and I successfully completed the First Certificate (FCE).

What tips would you give to anyone interested in a language study trip?

Tip no. 1: Don't hesitate to make new friends from other countries. You get opportunities like this far too rarely in life.
Tip no. 2: Use your saved pocket money for trips to other cities. Memories last, material things fade.
Tip no. 3: Talk a lot with local residents of the city. Not only will you get to know the culture better, but you're also sure to learn a few insider tips, such as where to eat well.

Which language study abroad providers have you registered with?

I booked my trip through the Swiss association PRO FILIA, which arranged the language school Westbourne Academy for me.

How satisfied were you with this provider?

I was very satisfied with the advice I received from PRO FILIA. She planned my exchange carefully and took all my wishes and suggestions into account. I owe her the most exciting 2.5 months of my life.

Portrait pictures of Bournemouth and surroundings (click on the pictures to enlarge):

Overview Language study abroad providers English