A decision that changed their plans
Although she was close to graduating, Victoria decided to take a break to gain some international experience. “I had my doubts because it meant extending my degree by a semester. But now I can say with absolute certainty that it was totally worth it,” she says.
His choice of the University of Manchester was no accident: he wanted to improve his English, experience a different cultural environment, and study at an academically prestigious institution. “When I saw the architecture of the buildings—both modern and historic—I knew I wanted to study there,” he recalls.
Applying isn't difficult, but you have to be strategic
Regarding the application process, he notes that it was intuitive and that there was a great deal of institutional support, both from Universidad ORT Uruguay in Universidad ORT Uruguay from the British university.
“The hardest part was choosing my courses, since I had to make sure they would be recognized when I returned,” he says. The rest of the process involved submitting my academic transcripts, documents, and a letter of motivation.
Large classes and independent study
“Even so, there are plenty of small-group support sessions where students can get their questions answered,” he explains. He also points out that at ORT, thanks to smaller class sizes and more direct interaction with teachers, the exchange of ideas is more fluid.
A stunning campus and a vibrant city
Her first impression of the campus was one of amazement:“The university is beautiful and huge.” As for the city, she describes it as very lively, full of cafés and cultural offerings, but also with rather gloomy weather. “I really missed the sun during those first few days,” she admits.
Technology, laboratories, and services
Manchester has first-rate has . The buildings are organized by academic discipline, and students use their student ID cards to access laboratories, libraries, and study rooms. “There is a wide range of support services available for international students,” he notes.
Choosing an exchange program during my senior year: an unexpected success
Victoria admits that it wasn't an easy decision. “At first, I had a lot of doubts; I hadn't done it in previous years because of my business, and making the decision in my senior year meant extending my studies by another semester,” she says. However, she insists it was one of the best decisions she ever made:“It’s an incredibly enriching experience.”
"I learned so much—not just academically, but also culturally and personally. Now I can say with absolute certainty that it was totally worth it."
What's next: more science and more of the world
Although it hadn’t been part of her plans before, the experience inspired her to continue exploring other cultures and approaches to science. “Now I definitely want to keep learning about how biotechnology is practiced in other countries,” she says.