Accounting and Finance graduate, Joshua Saxon, shares how studying at the University of Salford led him to spend an unforgettable year abroad in Toronto, where immersing himself in Canadian life transformed his confidence, independence and future career ambitions.
“During my second year at the University of Salford, I decided to take the opportunity to study abroad. Even before joining the university, I had noticed posters around campus advertising the chance to study overseas. This opportunity was one of the main reasons I chose to study at Salford, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
“I chose Toronto and Humber College as my destination, driven by a lifelong dream to experience Canadian life and explore a part of the world I had never visited before. I saw this as a unique chance to enhance my communication and interpersonal skills while challenging myself to step far outside my comfort zone. It would become the most unforgettable year of my life.
[Studying at Salford] turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
“I fully immersed myself in a new culture, leaving England completely on my own. I pushed myself to communicate, build new relationships, and share living spaces with people from different cultures and backgrounds. This experience taught me how to take care of myself, understand how I operate best, and develop essential life skills that I don’t think I could have learned otherwise. Academically, I adapted to a new style of learning and writing, which deepened my understanding of my coursework and improved my revision techniques.
“I spent the entire academic year in Toronto, totalling nine incredible months. It was, without a doubt, the greatest year of my life! I met so many amazing people who became lifelong friends, travelled to places I had only ever dreamed of, and returned home with a newfound confidence in who I am and what I can achieve.
“During my time in Canada, I had the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks like Niagara Falls and the CN Tower through university-organised trips. I also ventured to Vancouver with friends I met at Humber, exploring breathtaking landscapes and creating memories that I will cherish forever. Every day brought new adventures, and I embraced each moment with excitement and gratitude.
This experience taught me how to take care of myself, understand how I operate best, and develop essential life skills that I don’t think I could have learned otherwise.
“Since returning to the UK, I’ve stayed in touch with the friends I made in Canada and have continued to explore more of the world. These connections have allowed me to keep learning about their cultures and lifestyles, enriching my perspective even further. The confidence I gained during my time abroad has been life-changing. I’ve learned to push my boundaries and challenge myself in ways I never thought possible.
“I cannot recommend studying abroad enough. It has had a profound impact on both my personal and academic life, and it has been a major talking point in job interviews and on my CV. The experience not only broadened my horizons but also gave me a competitive edge in my career. It’s an adventure that has shaped who I am today, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity.”
I’ve learned to push my boundaries and challenge myself in ways I never thought possible.
Joshua’s journey proves that studying abroad can change everything. If you’re ready to grow personally, academically and professionally, take the chance to study abroad and see where it leads you.