At the end of their 4th academic year our students will live an experience they’ll never forget. In Epitech, all our 4th year students are doing an international study exchange in one of our partner universities around the world. This is the case of Hugo Lachkar, our 4th year student in Epitech Barcelona who has studied at a prestigious American university, the University of California in San Diego (UCSD).
To find out more about his experience, now that he’s back in Barcelona, we had recently interviewed him. Hugo is currently 21 years old and he will graduate next year.
Where have you been studying for the last past year?
I have spent a full year of total immersion in San Diego, USA. I was lucky enough to share a house with another EPITECH student and a local student as well.
Why did you choose the United States for your international study exchange?
First of all, to improve my English as much as possible. But also to create unforgettable memories, make new connections and live unique experiences in a new country. And I can truly say that all of these goals have been fulfilled.
“Integrating into a country you don’t know and opening yourself up to it is not easy, but in the end this year was an incredible experience, full of learning and personal development that I will remember all my life”.
What has this experience taught you?
This year away from my family, my friends and my country has taught me to be more independent, it has helped me to meet new people and make new friends. I have also learned a lot about new cultures. As a student at an international university, I have not only been in contact with American students, but also with people from all over the world.
And which classes have you followed?
The classic ones related to programming and digital, such as Java, Python, Javascript or UX, but I have also taken business-related courses. I would mention subjects such as Business Communications, Business Decision, International Business, Marketing and Market Research.
To conclude, any advice for future students for their international year?
My only advice would be not to overthink it and just go for it. It’s scary at first to travel alone and to think that you will be far away from your family and friends. Integrating into a country you don’t know and opening yourself up to it is not easy, but in the end this year will be for sure an incredible experience, full of learning and personal development that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.