The only problem with studying in the UK is how fast the year goes by
Ever since I was a little girl, my family used to say they saw me living in another country. To make that dream a reality, I started studying English when I was in primary school. I went to a Saturday school where the classrooms were named after UK cities, and that was my first introduction to this country. At the same time, my love for football grew; I started following Manchester United, dreaming that one day I would visit that magnificent stadium.
After finishing my undergraduate studies, I immediately started working, putting this dream on hold. One day, I was chatting with a friend I had met back in those childhood English classes. We agreed that we still had this pending dream to fulfil while we were young, and that's when we started planning it.
I always wanted to study in the UK for two main reasons: master's degrees take only one year, which is ideal for advancing quickly in your career, and the country has so many incredible places to explore and a rich history.
The application process from abroad can seem intimidating, but that's when I found Across the Pond. Thanks to my advisor's guidance, the process was super smooth and helped me reach the place that became my home for a year: University of Hull.
That is where I did my master's. I chose this university not only for its excellent program but also for the campus life. The facilities are beautiful, and you have everything in one place. I loved my course because it gave me an international perspective on technology and allowed me to work with classmates from all over the world.
Coming from Mexico, the transition had its challenges. On the one hand, the weather: the British winter is quite a challenge when you are used to a warmer climate, but you quickly learn to dress in layers! On the other hand, even though I had studied English since I was a child, adapting to academic English and the different accents (especially the northern one) takes a few weeks. However, the environment is so international and friendly that you feel confident very soon.
My personal and cultural life took a complete turn. In my spare time, besides keeping up with my routine by going to the campus gym, I dedicated myself to socialising with my new international friends and travelling around the UK. And of course, I experienced one of the happiest moments of my life: finally travelling to and seeing Old Trafford, keeping the promise I made to myself as a little girl.
If I could say one thing to those who are about to take this step (and something I wish I had known), it is that a year flies by. Don't let fear of the language or cultural change hold you back. Go out, ask questions, make mistakes when speaking (in the end, they turn into funny anecdotes), and enjoy every moment, because it is an invaluable experience that opens your mind and your heart.
- Kim
