By Sucheta Singh, Marketing and Communications
Photo by David Denofreo

Supun Thalagala believes in the motto, “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” And that’s exactly what he had in mind when he went to study in Switzerland for a semester.

Supun took courses at Bern University of Applied Sciences in Bern, Switzerland, for his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Financial Services degree. He believes his willingness to immerse himself in new cultures and languages and to meet and mix with people from diverse backgrounds, will make him stand out to future employers.

“I want to show employers I’m willing to take on challenges and step out of my comfort zone,” he says. “Plus, an international career is something I’ve always aimed for, and this exchange program was a great way to make connections abroad.

His career goal is to pursue an international sales position, which would give him the opportunity to experience different cultures and travel the world.

For now – just back from Italy, where he travelled after finishing his semester in Bern – Supun is encouraging other students to abandon their comfort zones and study abroad – and take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“I gained a perspective on life I didn’t even know existed. I rode an indescribable high throughout my exchange journey,” he says.

Ready to take off on your own international experience? Douglas offers programs that give you opportunities to learn and work in 17 countries.

FIELD SCHOOLS (7 weeks)

Spend the first part of the program studying at Douglas before going overseas with your instructors and classmates to finish. In 2018, we’re planning field schools to Greece, Italy, Scotland and China (subject to change).

EXCHANGE PROGRAMS (1-2 semesters)

Swap your place at Douglas with a student from one of our partner institutions around the world while still paying Douglas tuition fees – a fraction of what you’d pay as an international student.

SEMESTERS ABROAD (1 semester)

Study as an international student at Columbia University (New York) or the University of California, Berkeley, and transfer your credits back to Douglas.

INTERNATIONAL CO-OPS (6 months)

Study at the University of California, Riverside, and then head to Walt Disney World to get paid academic training as a character performer, costumer and more. You’ll earn a Certificate in Management or Hospitality and Tourism Management.

DEGREE COMPLETION (1 year)

After completing your two-year program at Douglas, transfer to our partner school, the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) and complete your bachelor’s degree there in only one year.