Third year Psychology student Jonathan Oliveira studied a year abroad at the University of Ottowa, Canada, as part of the University's Global Opportunities Programme.
Jonathan has shared his experiences of taking part in the Global Opportunities programme, discussing his experiences of studying abroad, the skills he learnt and advice for students who would like to take part in the Global Opportunities Programme in the future.
How did you first hear about the Global Opportunities Programme?
I knew about the Global Opportunities programme before I even started university. When I was applying to universities through UCAS, I made sure that all five choices offered some form of study abroad program, whether it was a summer, semester, or full-year option.
Since I was young, I’d dreamed of living abroad, so it was a priority for me that my university experience included that possibility.
Liverpool’s Global Opportunities programme stood out as a flexible and well-organized way to study internationally, so I made sure it was part of my plan from the start.
What did your Global Opportunities experience involve?
During my year at the University of Ottawa, I primarily focused on psychology courses to stay aligned with my degree in BSc Psychology from the University of Liverpool. I took a range of psychology modules, which helped me gain a new perspective on familiar topics through the lens of a different education system. I also chose an elective in Marketing, which allowed me to branch out into a new area and think about psychology in a more applied, business-oriented way.
In addition to my studies, I had the opportunity to work as a Research Assistant in the Cognition & Emotion Lab under Dr. Erin Maloney. I contributed to a research project that examined math anxiety, which gave me hands-on experience with research methods and data collection, as well as insight into the field of educational psychology. This role was incredibly valuable for my academic development and helped build skills that will be useful in my future career.
Outside of academics, I volunteered with SWAM Canada, a charity providing affordable, one-on-one swimming lessons to children with special needs. This was a deeply rewarding experience, allowing me to make meaningful connections and develop a sense of community in Ottawa. It also helped me grow personally, teaching me patience, empathy, and adaptability. Some of my closest friendships were formed through my involvement with SWAM, and I am grateful for the opportunity to give back while learning so much from the children and other volunteers.
Jonathan's accomodation building overlooking the Rideau River.
Can you describe your first week abroad?
For some context, while studying at the University of Liverpool, I was a commuter student, living at home and enjoying the comforts of home-cooked meals and family support. So, my first week in Ottawa felt like a big shift—almost like being a first-year student again but with the added challenge of adjusting to life 3,000 miles away!
I spent my first week exploring the neighbourhood and familiarising myself with Ottawa. I found local shops, cafes, and nearby parks, and I started to map out my daily routes to campus. Each day felt like a new adventure, but it was also a week full of challenges and adjustments. Despite the initial uncertainty, I’m incredibly proud of myself for pushing through that period. By the end of the week, I was feeling more at home and beginning to appreciate all that Ottawa had to offer. It didn’t take long for the city to feel like a second home, and looking back, I miss those early days of exploration and discovery.
My first week was filled with so much uncertainty, but I am incredibly proud and grateful in myself for persisting and sticking with it. It soon became my second home, and now looking back I miss it there!
A photo from Jonathan's travels to and from campus.
What skills did you learn that will be beneficial for your studies and future employability?
Living and studying abroad helped me develop a range of skills that I know will serve me well in both my studies and future career. Adaptability was a big one; I had to adjust quickly to a new education system and adapt to living independently in a foreign country. My time management skills also improved because I had to balance my academic work, research commitments, and volunteer activities.
Additionally, I grew more confident in networking and collaboration, especially through my work in the lab and my volunteer role. These skills are not only relevant to my field of psychology but are also crucial for any future work environment.
At a post-football win for University of Ottowa.
How would you describe your Global Opportunities experience?
A once-in-a-lifetime experience! I am so grateful to have had the chance to live and study in Ottawa, to immerse myself in a new culture, and to make lifelong friends from around the world. Living abroad was both challenging and rewarding, and I grew so much as a person. It truly felt like a journey of self-discovery, and I returned with a stronger sense of confidence and independence.
What advice would you give to other students who would like to take part in the Global Opportunities programme?
My biggest advice would be: just go for it! Embracing an opportunity like this can only broaden your horizons and expose you to new perspectives. Be open to saying yes to new experiences, and don’t be afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone. Living in another country may seem daunting at first, but it’s an amazing way to build resilience, learn new things about yourself, and make memories you’ll carry with you for life.