I highly recommend the UK
Hello! My name is Regina. I studied an MSc in Biotechnology (Microbial Pathway) at the University of Nottingham, and I wanted to share my incredible experience studying at a UK university!
Why did I choose the UK?
For me, it was a mix of choice and a bit of luck. I always knew I wanted to study abroad, primarily because sustainable biotech is an emerging field in Mexico, and I knew the UK is a leading country in this area. However, winning the British Council Women in STEM Scholarship gave me the opportunity to study at the University of Nottingham with everything covered (tuition, stipend, travel, etc.). These two factors combined are why I chose the UK.
How did Across the Pond help me?
Across the Pond was the best support I could have received. They not only answered all my questions but also helped me prepare for my applications by providing excellent advice.
Nottingham: a great city and an even better university!
I can't express enough how much I loved the University of Nottingham. The professors were incredibly motivating, and I learned so much. Both the professors and my master's director were understanding and inspiring role models. Nottingham Uni has an amazing campus (actually three across the city), and I enjoyed all of it—from the labs to the library, coffee shops, and study spaces. It was definitely challenging since the UK system is more focused on self-study and heavily project-based. However, I developed many research skills, got exposure to industry and even earned the highest grade in the programme. But most importantly, I discovered the research area I want to pursue in my career. Spoiler alert: I’m heading back to Nottingham to continue this research in a PhD!
More things about the university: It’s a very sporty university with massive gyms and sports fields, and it offers many interesting clubs and societies (I was part of the Women in STEM, Hispanic, and Mexican societies). It’s also very international, with both students and professors from all over the world.
About the city: Nottingham is a great mid-sized city with everything you could imagine, but most of all, amazing people! I made such good friends since Nottingham is quite an international hub (with two big universities). I love that it’s centrally located in the UK, so you can reach all major English cities in 1.5-2 hours. I didn’t struggle at all to fit in; it’s a very welcoming and youthful city, and many of my international friends agree. Switching from Spanish to English was no trouble. I describe Nottingham as a great place to live—not a typical touristy spot, so the city centre is full of enjoyable places. It also has a great transportation system, so it’s easy to get around. Coming from Mexico City, it was amazing!
About accommodation
I lived in both student and private accommodations. The great thing about Nottingham is the variety of housing options that cater to different preferences and budgets. It depends entirely on your preferences, but I’ll share what I found best in both cases. In student accommodation, you generally have your own room and share common spaces. It’s a great way to meet new people and attend more events. For example, I met my best friends (one from India and another from England) and attended various cultural events organised by the accommodation. In private accommodation, you have your own space, it’s cheaper, and more flexible; but it can be a bit lonelier. If it’s your first year abroad, I would definitely recommend student accommodation.
What I would have liked to know before..
Deadlines! I was very tight with the scholarship deadline, so if you’re interested in applying for scholarships, make sure to check the dates.
You can work part-time while you study. Check if it’s possible with your university/course, but I was able to work part-time as a university ambassador, which helped me a lot financially and allowed me to meet new people.
My conclusion
Studying at the University of Nottingham has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The combination of academic excellence, cultural exposure, and personal growth has not only enriched my knowledge but also shaped the direction of my career in biotechnology. If you’re considering studying abroad, I highly recommend the UK, and especially Nottingham. And if you do, using Across the Pond is something I highly recommend as well!
- Regina