To be sure in your choice. Or not...
Deciding what to study can both feel overwhelming, intimidating and stressful. Even people with an ongoing interest of many years often have trouble landing on one specific course; The sea of opportunities is in many ways bigger than ever, this especially when one starts including opportunities in other cities and countries as well. Despite personally knowing I wanted to get closer to the music business industry, I had no idea as a Norwegian as to where, how or what. London felt safe as I am familiar with the city and also know a few people living there. And, in terms of this specific industry, the opportunities and choices I was to get at home are nothing compared to the international, important, central and big music city that London is. Ultimately I ended up with a joint course; BA (Hons) Music Business & Event Management at BIMM University. Both Music Business and Event Management are also offered as two separate degrees at my uni, but by doing it my way I am able to learn the basics of both. Personally I have found this to be a very smart and insightful way of solving it. I recommend prioritizing doing sufficient research early, such as exploring the options of open days at the universities. Though insecurity still often is an inevitable part of the big adjustment that university is. But, what other method will make you figure something out more accurate than personally trying it?
Life at London’s BIMM University as an international student
Since British people are more outgoing I am experiencing a bigger focus on sitting down and getting to know each other, rather than the central party and drinking culture among Norwegian students. My classmates range from artists of all types of genres to event planners, making their live events an easy space to get friends and make memories. University is free in Norway, so I naturally have to be more aware of my spendings and savings, and have less freedom in that way. International tuition fees at British universities are often even higher than they are for UK students. However, both BIMM and other unis in the country still welcome loads of international students to their campuses every single year. Good things cost more, and I, together with so many other people, think it is all worth it. I believe it is expensive to move out and live on your own wherever, so you will have to save up some money anyway.
Your new home away from home
Whether your university offers student accommodations or not, one really can’t start too early with looking for a place to stay the upcoming semesters. Time goes by faster than you think, and before you know it it’s already the last couple of months at home before your big move. Social media is an excellent place to meet people at your university before school starts. Not only does this help make the experience less intimidating, they can also be potential flat- sharers. A good home is clean, in good shape, and has space for growth and creativity - but is also the most attractive for other people. You will want to have basics like your housing situation sorted out and out of your way as soon as possible so that you avoid unnecessary stress on top of everything else.
When not at campus:
The UK is a big country with a lot to offer and explore. The well established buses, tubes and train routes, especially in London, makes getting around quick and easy. In my spare time I like to enjoy life in the big country, whether that is through bigger trips or just at a bar with some friends. Through university I have met people trom Germany, Netherlands, Bulgaria and even Israel! Living in London also makes it easier to pursue my hobby that is live music events through its wide range and big number of concerts. After having gotten a job at The O2 arena I am even able to combine this and get paid while doing what I love!
Tips, tricks and other bits for future potential UK students
If there is one thing I wish I knew before I started studying in the UK it’s the importance of budgeting, planning and thinking realistic. When moving abroad to a new and exciting city it is super easy to get too caught up in all the opportunities that now lie in front of you. By holding back a little until you have a better overview of everything, you will most definitely thank both yourself and your not-so-empty wallet later. With that being said, the years at university go by super quick, so make sure to enjoy them while you still can! Pack light and try not to stress too much; most stuff can be fixed there. Moving abroad doesn’t have to be that scary either - it definitely helps feeling like one is somewhat prepared and knows what lies ahead of them. Across the Pond helps you navigate through things you might not even initially necessarily realise you would need, and have connections that at least I didn’t. There’s no such thing as too many questions, and there certainly aren’t any dumb ones!
- Julie