The Art of Questioning, Growing, and Becoming Independent
What motivated me to study in the United Kingdom?
I was always excited about the idea of living abroad; I wanted to learn how to stand on my own two feet and discover what I was capable of on my own. I chose the UK because of its impressive history, culture, and that unique architecture that always caught my eye. In addition, I was drawn by the prestige of its universities in world rankings, the language, and, above all, the multiculturalism. I knew that studying here would give me the opportunity to enrich myself by sharing experiences with people from all corners of the globe.
What is academic, personal, and cultural life like?
Academically, the experience has been incredible. At first, the pace seemed relaxed, and I even thought it might be easier than in my home country. But the British system is so well-organized that, almost without realizing it, you end up learning so much. What I valued the most was the immense academic freedom you feel here.
Personally, it has been a journey of complete growth. You grow by leaps and bounds when you realize you are on your own: nobody is going to cook for you or wash your clothes. However, there is a beautiful magic to it, because you become the sole owner of your time and your decisions.
Culturally, it has been a fascinating clash. I learned that what is normal for me is not normal for others, and vice versa, which leads you to question your own way of looking at life. You open up to the world so much that you end up cooking dishes from other countries, falling in love with new flavours, and celebrating our differences.
What did I learn in the UK?
Among the lessons I’m taking with me, I carry resilience, the self-discipline to stay organized, and the certainty that it is indeed possible to balance daily life while working on your own projects. But without a doubt, the most valuable lesson has been the way of thinking. The British system does not focus on memorizing how to calculate a parameter or conduct an experiment; it teaches you to reason, to doubt, and to question. That capacity for analysis is the true treasure of studying here.
What do I wish I had known before coming?
I would have loved to be better prepared for the cultural adjustment. English culture is very different from Mexican culture, which is much warmer. On a more practical level, it would have been amazing to know exactly what to pack in my suitcase and to have brought much more food from my country!
Pro tip: Bring food, it’s the most valuable thing you can pack!
Lastly, I wish I had mentally prepared for the emotional toll beforehand: knowing that, even though you are going to live wonderful experiences, you leave your family behind and there will be major moments in their lives that you will miss. It is a real sacrifice, but one that also gives immense value to every achievement you reach here.
- Jaqueline
