My Best “Ignorant” Decision Ever: Moving to York
The “Why” York
I had been searching for a long time for a program that combined sociology and technology in equal parts. Most of what I found was either too technical or too focused on the humanities. When I discovered the one at the University of York, I felt I had finally found the master’s program I truly wanted. The funny part is that I was so focused on the program itself that I didn’t research anything about the city. I just moved. And now, looking back, I always say it was my best “ignorant” decision.
A City That Won My Heart
York surprised me from the very first day. It’s one of those places that slowly works its way into your heart. The city is beautiful, full of history, with large parks, green spaces, and a city center full of things to explore. I had been an international student before, but I had never found it so hard to say goodbye to a place as it was with York. The people I met were incredibly kind, always up for a chat and with a sense of humor that made it easy to laugh about anything. Once I read on Instagram that York was “the friendliest city in the UK,” and I thought it sounded like an exaggeration, after all, how could you even measure that? But after living there, I can say that in my experience, it really was.
Community
At the university, I found an international community that welcomed me from day one. I connected closely with a fun and supportive Latin community, but I also made friends with people from all over the world. I was surrounded by kind people and meaningful conversations that opened my eyes to different cultures, industries, perspectives, and languages. Outside the university, I also met amazing people: at events organized by women’s groups in the city and even at a poetry group I stumbled upon by chance one Thursday night in a pub. I never felt alone, and that sense of belonging is what made my time in York unforgettable.
Food, Travel, and Weekends
York also gave me countless stories to tell. I’m a foodie, and even though British food isn’t the country’s strongest point, I found excellent restaurants with international flavors: Italian, Thai, Japanese, Colombian, Indian, and more. On weekends, I went to the Yorkshire Moors, the Dales, the Peak District, and other natural spots with stunning views and friendly people. York is surrounded by amazing landscapes for walking and hiking. Plus, the university societies organized the trips, so logistics were easy and I could just sign up and enjoy. Another great advantage is that York is less than two hours by train from London and only a few hours from Liverpool, Edinburgh, and other cities. Its location is perfect for exploring. I even used train rides to get ahead on essays or my thesis. Pro tip: the student railcard is a lifesaver for spending less and traveling more.
Support That Made This Possible
Across the Pond gave me free guidance and supported me for over two years of applications and scholarship searches, until everything finally aligned. Thanks to one of their online presentations, I discovered the program I had been looking for, and with their help, I was able to make this experience a reality. It’s not always easy to meet every deadline or stay motivated when you’re applying to several universities, and my advisor was key during those moments. She checked in with me even when I was least motivated or struggling to keep up, and I will always be grateful for that. Personally and professionally, I ended my year in York happier than I ever imagined.
My Advice: Take the Leap
If you’re considering studying in the UK, my advice is simple: take the leap. I am so grateful I chose York, even if at the time it was an “ignorant” decision regarding the city. Normally, I research and overanalyze everything in advance, but this time I stuck with the process, trusted the unknown, and it turned out to be the best decision I could have made.
- Ana Sofia