My Journey from Pakistan to Royal Holloway: Finding a Home Away from Home
Moving to a new country as an international student is never an easy decision. You are leaving behind family, friends, and everything familiar to start a new chapter in an unfamiliar land. When I arrived in the UK to begin my MSc in Business Analytics at Royal Holloway, I felt a mix of excitement, nervousness, and uncertainty. But very quickly, those feelings were replaced by a deep sense of belonging, something I never expected to feel so soon after landing.
From the moment I stepped onto campus, I could tell that Royal Holloway was not just a university, it was a community. The lush green spaces, the iconic Founder's Building, and the genuine warmth of everyone I encountered instantly made me feel at ease. It did not matter that I was from another country, I was treated as part of something bigger, a shared experience of learning, growing, and becoming.
One of the most comforting aspects of my experience has been the incredible support network for international students. From orientation to academic support, and even career advice tailored for international graduates, the university has made it clear that I am not on this journey alone. The International Student Support Office answered questions I had not even thought to ask yet, and events like the Welcome Week helped me make friends from all over the world. In just a few days, I formed bonds that will likely last a lifetime.
Academically, the experience has been both challenging and rewarding. Studying at a globally respected institution like Royal Holloway has pushed me to think critically, apply my knowledge practically, and grow as a future data driven decision-maker. What makes it even more special is the collaborative atmosphere. Professors are approachable, seminars are interactive, and students genuinely support one another, a refreshing shift from the sometimes rigid academic cultures I was used to.
But beyond lectures and coursework, it’s the small things that have made this journey so memorable, sharing food from different cultures with flatmates, late-night walks across the beautifully lit campus, or simply being greeted with a smile by someone from a completely different background. It’s in these moments that you realise how truly global and yet closely knitted the Royal Holloway community is.
I also had the opportunity to become a Postgraduate Student Ambassador, which has been a highlight of my time here. It’s given me a chance to give back, to support new students as they take their first steps into this new life, just as I once did. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my story and support might make someone else’s transition smoother.
Looking back, choosing Royal Holloway was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s not just the academic prestige or the beautiful campus, it’s the people, the culture, and the unwavering support that truly make this place feel like home. As an international student, you expect challenges but what you might not expect is just how quickly those challenges are softened by kindness, inclusion, and opportunity.
To anyone considering studying here, take the leap. Royal Holloway will not just educate you, it will empower you, connect you, and most importantly, welcome you with open arms.
- Muhammed Uzair