The academic standard has been exceptional

The beginning: why I decided to study in the UK and how I discovered Across the Pond

I had always dreamed of studying in the United Kingdom. After completing my undergraduate degree in History in Chile, I saw a postgraduate course as the perfect opportunity to fulfil that ambition. However, due to various factors — among them the high cost of programmes for international students — I decided to pursue a Master’s in History in my home country first.

It was during that time that I discovered Across the Pond. I don’t remember exactly how I first came into contact with the team, but I do recall that I was initially sceptical about the fact that their guidance was entirely free of charge. However, they quickly demonstrated such professionalism and genuine support that I felt confident enough to continue pursuing my dream of studying abroad.

I attended several webinars and online talks organised by Across the Pond, where they explained the entire application process in great detail. It was during one of those sessions that I met my advisor. I was impressed by how knowledgeable she was about the procedures for studying in the UK, as well as her in-depth understanding of the different scholarships available. That was when I decided to reach out to her directly and share my intention to specialise in war and terrorism studies — a field with limited academic opportunities in Chile.
 

The process: between uncertainty and constant support

My advisor helped me with absolutely everything. She presented me with various Master’s programmes — all of excellent quality and at prestigious universities. As I needed to apply for a scholarship for financial reasons, we tailored the search based on their specific requirements. I eventually applied to three universities: the University of Leeds, King’s College London, and Queen’s University Belfast. To my surprise, I was accepted by all three.

My advisor managed the entire application process and kept me informed at every stage. I also had full access to each university's platform, allowing me to follow every step and message sent. It was, without a doubt, a collaborative and highly transparent effort.
We ultimately opted for the University of Leeds, as it best aligned with my academic background. However, my offer was conditional, as I did not meet the required IELTS score. The alternative was either to improve my score or take the university’s pre-sessional English course. Fortunately, I was awarded a scholarship from my country, but the dates did not match the start of the English course, so I was unable to join on time.

My advisor supported me throughout the process and contacted the university in search of a solution. Unfortunately, it was not possible to defer the offer to the following year, as the programme would not be offered again. It was a hard blow — I felt as if my dream was slipping away once more. However, Across the Pond provided me with immediate support. After assessing the situation, we planned a new application for the following year, this time prioritising King’s College London.
Over the next two years, my advisor continued to closely follow my progress. That time also allowed me to complete my Master’s in History in Chile and strengthen my academic profile to apply for the War Studies programme in London.
 

I made it: studying in the United Kingdom

Once the scholarship timeline and my acceptance at King’s aligned, my advisor guided me through the enrolment process for the pre-sessional English course offered by the university. And so, thanks to Across the Pond, I arrived in London to begin a truly unique academic and personal journey — first improving my English over six weeks at King’s, and then undertaking a full year on the War Studies programme.

The academic standard has been exceptional. Everything I have learned here has far exceeded my expectations. The experience has not only been enriching academically and in terms of networking, but it has also allowed me to make great friends and travel to other countries across Europe. Without doubt, it was the best decision I could have made — and a large part of that success is thanks to the impeccable work of Across the Pond and, in particular, my advisor.

I am currently still living in the UK, planning my professional career here. Most importantly, I remain in contact with my advisor, who continues to be involved in my journey with the same professionalism and commitment as on the very first day.

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I want to share my experience with Across the Pond because, quite honestly, I would not have made it here without the constant and dedicated support of my advisor. For over two years, she accompanied me every step of the way with a level of commitment that far exceeded my expectations. From selecting the right universities to navigating challenges such as language requirements and scholarship deadlines, she was always there, offering clarity, reassurance, and encouragement. Thanks to her guidance, I am now studying at King’s College London and living a transformative experience that once felt out of reach.

For all these reasons, I wholeheartedly recommend Across the Pond to anyone dreaming of studying in the UK. You will not only receive first-class professional advice, but also a level of human support that truly makes all the difference.

- Ignacio