As a UDIT Graphic Design student, I found Thomas More University of Applied Sciences in Mechelen, Belgium to be a very good exchange option for anyone looking for a more practical and communication-focused approach to design.
If you are looking for a programme that feels more traditional or closer to fine arts, this may not be the best fit. However, if you are interested in marketing, web design, basic 3D and interior design using SketchUp, virtual reality, or creating communication materials such as posters and social media content, then this university is a great option. This was exactly the kind of experience I was looking for, and it was the part I enjoyed the most.
The professors were always approachable and willing to help, which made the academic experience much easier and more enjoyable. The classmates were also very welcoming, and the atmosphere was highly international, with students coming from many different countries. Since English was the common language, it was easy to adapt and feel included. There are also many Spanish students, which can make the experience feel a bit more familiar for some people.
Campus life was friendly and the environment was comfortable overall. The weather is not as bad as people often say; it is similar to Madrid, although with more cloudy skies. It does rain, but not as much as I expected, and I even saw snow twice during January and February.
Overall, I do not regret choosing this destination at all. I learned a lot both academically and personally, and I would definitely recommend it to students whose interests match this more applied and international approach to design.