Invaluable academic, professional, and personal growth

Studying in the UK had been in the back of my mind ever since my first visit to London. Years ago, a former boss invited me to join her for a summer workshop she was leading in Barcelona, and as part of the course, there was a weeklong visit to London to explore architecture schools, iconic projects, and firms like ARUP, Zaha Hadid Architects, and the Architectural Association. That trip left a lasting impression on me. As an architect, walking through London’s streets felt like stepping into a living textbook of design and history. I returned to Mexico inspired, and deep down I knew I wanted to come back, not just to visit, but to grow academically and professionally.

Architecture wasn’t my only connection to the UK. Growing up, my dad introduced me to British music and films. We’d watch classics together and seize every chance to see British artists live when they came to Mexico, Paul McCartney, Roger Waters, Blur, Arctic Monkeys, to name a few. Those moments shaped my cultural identity and made the UK feel strangely familiar even before I ever set foot here. So when I finally moved to the UK for my master’s, it felt like a dream come true, especially living in Nottingham, a city with its own vibrant cultural scene. Being able to go to small venues in Rock City and watch artists like The Waterboys, Peter Hook from Joy Division, Jake Bugg, and Echo & the Bunnymen, artists I grew up listening to, was something I never imagined possible.

I chose the University of Nottingham because of its high ranking in Architecture and its reputation as a leader in sustainable design education, two key aspects for my career goals. My course, the MArch in Architecture and Sustainable Design, challenged me in all the right ways. It expanded my understanding of environmental design and introduced me to the field of sustainable consultancy, an area less explored in Mexico but one I now feel passionate about pursuing professionally.

Living in Nottingham itself became an integral part of my journey. Coming from Mexico City, a sprawling metropolis where life is fast-paced, traffic is constant, and distances feel endless, the change to a medium-sized city like Nottingham was refreshing. It offered a friendlier, more local feel with the perfect balance between built environment and nature. I loved the slower pace of life, walking everywhere on tree-lined paths, and enjoying the green spaces that make the University of Nottingham one of the UK’s greenest campuses. Even commuting to classes felt special, with squirrels and the occasional group of bunnies hopping around the lawns. That daily connection with nature provided a sense of calm that allowed me to focus on my studies and personal growth in a way I hadn’t experienced before.

Of course, moving abroad isn’t without its challenges. For me, homesickness was the hardest part. I missed my family and friends deeply, and there were moments when the distance felt overwhelming. Not only did I miss them, but also the little daily routines back home, sharing meals with my family, catching up with friends after work, celebrating traditions unique to Mexico, and of course, the food. Nothing quite compares to the flavours and comfort of Mexican cuisine.

Coming from Latin America, there’s often the belief that countries in Europe or the US are far more advanced than us in education and opportunities. At first, I worried how my background would measure up in such a competitive academic environment. To my surprise, I soon realised that my education in Mexico City had prepared me incredibly well. I’ve been doing great in my classes, and I’m thankful for the solid foundation my professors and mentors gave me back home. It made me proud to see that the skills and knowledge I gained there are at the same level as what I’ve encountered here.

What helped me navigate those emotional ups and downs was engaging with the social life at university. I loved attending events by the Hispanic and Mexican societies, where I connected with like-minded people from similar backgrounds who, at times, made me feel at home. I also think it’s essential not to isolate yourself. Focus on your studies, yes, but also go out, meet new people, and travel as much as you can, even within the UK, there’s so much to explore. That balance between academic growth and social experiences has made my time here truly unforgettable.

Would I recommend studying in the UK? Absolutely. But I’d also advise future students to plan ahead and do your research if you’re thinking about staying and working afterwards, some fields can be challenging to break into.

This year has given me invaluable academic, professional, and personal growth. Studying in the UK has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

- Ingrid Daniela