My incredible experience studying abroad in the UK

Hiya! I'm Jesus Angel and let me take you on a journey through my incredible experience studying abroad in the UK. From the moment I decided to pursue a master's degree, I knew I wanted to do something extraordinary. Traveling abroad while furthering my education seemed like the ultimate adventure, a way to enrich my knowledge while satisfying my craving for exploration. It was truly a win-win situation.

I had the privilege of choosing Robert Gordon University, and boy, was it a great decision. The university's remarkable reputation as the third-best in Scotland for both student satisfaction and employability caught my attention. What sealed the deal was its engineering campus, a marvel built in 2018. The labs and facilities were top-notch, a perfect environment for a tech enthusiast like me. And the campus itself? Oh, it was a picturesque haven. Nestled by the River Dee, lush green areas, and stunning scenery were a part of my everyday view. Plus, with a gym and a swimming pool, staying fit was not just easy but enjoyable. What impressed me further was the commitment to accessibility, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, could fully participate in the university experience. Speaking of experiences, let me share a bit about my accommodation. I opted for private housing, a mere 15-minute stroll away from the university. What a find! It was also just a stone's throw from the old railway road, a charming cycling and walking path. Having my own space was crucial to me, allowing me to focus on my studies while enjoying the comfort of a place I could truly call my own.

The UK's student life was a pleasant shock to my system, in the best possible way. Compared to my home country, Mexico, the diversity at Robert Gordon University was striking. My program alone was a microcosm of the world, with classmates representing Nigeria, India, Denmark, the Czech Republic, and Scotland. The discussions were incredibly enriching as we exchanged perspectives and shared our unique experiences. It broadened my horizons in ways I hadn't imagined. My course, MSc. in Biomedical Technology, was a revelation. Delving into cutting-edge technologies and their potential in the medical field was electrifying. From researching new medical devices to understanding regulatory norms, it all felt like I was preparing to make a real change. My future goals have been shaped by this course—to bring these advancements to Mexico and uplift the quality of life for countless families. Let’s talk about my new hometown, Aberdeen. Known as the 'Granite City,' it's so much more than its sturdy architecture. The city is alive with festivals, art, and events. I was taken aback by the murals and artistic expressions scattered across town, a testament to Aberdeen's dedication to the arts. And guess what? Despite its granite facade, there's a beautiful beach to unwind at. As someone from the desert, having a beach nearby was an unexpected delight that added to the city's charm.

When it came to making friends and exploring new cultures, being an international student ambassador was my ticket. This role opened doors to connect with people from all walks of life. We'd gather for picnics, art events, and celebrations of our diverse traditions. Sharing Mexican festivities like El Dia de Muertos was a fantastic way to connect with others and build friendships that continue even after graduation. Now, here's the twist. English wasn't my first language, and I thought I was prepared. But the UK's accents, oh my! Different accents from all over the world took me by surprise, making communication an exciting challenge. But you know what? It was an amazing experience to navigate this linguistic diversity. The university's support, from patient lecturers to tutoring services, made this journey smoother than I ever imagined.

Before I took this leap, I wish someone told me that starting from scratch in a new country is both a challenge and an incredible joy. Learning new traditions, making friends, and building a life from the ground up is daunting, but the rewards are immeasurable. Lastly, my journey with Across the Pond was remarkable. My agent, Jose, was a true guide. He was there every step of the way, assisting with documents and answering my doubts. His unwavering support made the process seamless, and I'm truly grateful to him and the entire team at Across the Pond for making this experience possible.

So, that's my adventure so far. From studying in the UK to embracing a new culture, every moment has been a chapter in my incredible story.

- Angel