From India to the Heart of Oxford – My Journey Begins

Deciding to study abroad was not something I had planned since childhood, but it became a deeply personal decision shaped by a desire for growth, exposure, and challenge. I come from India specifically from Bengaluru, a fast-paced and energetic city that's always buzzing with life. But I felt I had hit a point in my academic journey where I needed something more than just a traditional classroom setting. I wanted global perspective, exposure to practical learning, and the chance to interact with people from all over the world.

That’s when I discovered Oxford Brookes University and honestly, it felt like the perfect fit.
 

Why I Chose Oxford Brookes University (and Why I'm Glad I Did)

People often associate Oxford only with the University of Oxford, but Oxford Brookes has its own incredibly strong identity. It stood out to me because of its highly specialised courses, amazing industry connections, and practical approach to education. What sealed the deal for me was the MSc in Construction Project Management. Coming from an architecture background, I wanted to move toward managing construction and infrastructure projects, and the course structure at Brookes was exactly what I was looking for focused, technical, and industry-oriented.

The faculty here are approachable and very encouraging. They are not just teachers they're mentors. What I also appreciated is that a lot of the coursework is research-based, which has helped me gain confidence in my academic skills. You’re not just expected to memorise content; you're encouraged to analyse, think critically, and find your own voice.
 

Life on Campus – Modern, Welcoming, and Full of Surprises

Oxford Brookes has several campuses, but I spend most of my time at the Headington Campus, which is modern and really well-equipped. The library is probably where I’ve spent the majority of my days it’s open 24/7 during peak study weeks, and I love the quiet study zones, group rooms, and even the café inside where I usually grab my coffee between lectures.

There's also a huge sports centre (Brookes Sport) where students get discounted memberships. I joined a couple of yoga and dance sessions there during my first semester, and it helped me break the ice and meet people outside my course. The campus has a very student-friendly vibe modern buildings, tech-equipped classrooms, and so many green spaces around.
 

Finding Home Away From Home – My Accommodation Experience

I chose to live in student accommodation for my first year, and I must say it was one of the best decisions I made. I stayed at Clive Booth Student Village, just a short walk from the Headington campus. It’s surrounded by trees, calm, and the rooms are quite spacious for student housing. What I loved most was how international the community was. My flatmates were from Thailand, Nigeria, and Italy, and it didn’t take us long to form a little family.

We cooked together often, and those kitchen conversations taught me more about the world than I could’ve imagined. You learn how to respect cultures, communicate with empathy, and genuinely enjoy diversity.
 

Adjusting to Life in the UK – A Cultural Shift with a Lot of Tea

Coming from India, everything felt a little quiet at first. The pace of life in Oxford is much slower than what I’m used to in Bengaluru. People are polite, wait patiently in queues, and say "sorry" even if it's your fault! But these small things began to grow on me.

The weather? That took time. Carrying an umbrella every day has become second nature now. But there's something charming about the drizzle, the cozy cafés, and how beautiful the streets of Oxford look in the fog.

Social life here is different too. In India, your social circle is often built around family and close-knit friends from school or college. Here, it’s more about shared interests. I made friends through societies, group projects, and even simple things like waiting in line for coffee. Everyone’s generally very open and welcoming, especially when they know you're from abroad.
 

Course Spotlight – MSc Construction Project Management

If you’re someone considering studying this course, let me say go for it. It’s intense, but the learning is so rewarding. We study everything from procurement to risk management, digital construction technologies, and sustainability. One thing I’ve particularly enjoyed is how they link theory to real-life case studies.

The professors often bring in their own industry experiences, which adds a practical layer to everything we study. We’ve had guest lectures from professionals in the UK construction industry, and many modules involve independent research and presentations, which prepare you for the real world. I’ve grown a lot not just as a student, but as a professional.
 

Discovering Oxford – A City Straight Out of a Movie

Living in Oxford feels like living in a postcard. The cobbled streets, historic buildings, vintage bookshops, and quaint cafés it never gets old. On weekends, I often go for long walks along the Thames or explore the university parks. Port Meadow and Christ Church Meadows are some of my favourite spots to unwind.

There’s a great mix of history and modern life here. You’ll find centuries-old pubs with amazing stories, next to high-street fashion brands and bustling shopping centres. It’s a very walkable city, and public transport is easy to use when you want to visit London it’s only about an hour away by bus or train.
 

How I Spend My Free Time – More Than Just Studies

Balancing life here is something you learn quickly. The course is demanding, but there’s always time for personal growth. I joined a couple of societies at Brookes one focused on international students and another on entrepreneurship. These societies organise events, mixers, and trips which are great for networking and having fun.

I also spend time journaling, going for walks, and trying out new places to eat. Oxford has everything from classic British pubs to Indian, Thai, and Middle Eastern restaurants. I even found a little Indian grocery store in Cowley Road that stocks all my favourites from home.
 

Studying in English – From Doubt to Confidence

English is my first language, it’s something I’ve always been comfortable with, thanks to my schooling in India. However, academic writing in the UK has its own tone and expectations, and it took a while to adjust. Thankfully, the university offers writing support services and workshops, and they’ve helped me improve not just my essays but also my confidence.

Group discussions, seminars, and presentations also gave me the space to practise and become more fluent. Everyone’s patient, and mistakes are seen as part of learning, which makes the environment feel very safe.
 

What I Wish I Knew Before Coming Here

Looking back, I wish I had known just how independent life here is. In India, everything is very structured and you often have support at every stage. Here, you have to figure things out whether it’s cooking your own meals, budgeting, or planning your schedule. But that independence is what shapes you. It forces you to grow.

Another thing? Pack a good raincoat. And bring things that remind you of home it could be your favourite snacks, photos, or traditional clothes. They help on the days you feel homesick.
 

Final Thoughts – A Journey That Changed Me

Studying in the UK, especially at Oxford Brookes, has been a turning point in my life. I’ve not only grown academically but also discovered a version of myself that’s stronger, more curious, and more adaptable than I ever imagined. If you’re considering this path then just take the leap. It won’t be easy all the time, but it will be worth it.

Every international student comes here for a degree, but we all leave with so much more memories, friendships, lessons, and a new home in our hearts.

- Deeksha
 

The beginning: why I decided to study in the UK and how I discovered Across the Pond

I had always dreamed of studying in the United Kingdom. After completing my undergraduate degree in History in Chile, I saw a postgraduate course as the perfect opportunity to fulfil that ambition. However, due to various factors — among them the high cost of programmes for international students — I decided to pursue a Master’s in History in my home country first.

It was during that time that I discovered Across the Pond. I don’t remember exactly how I first came into contact with the team, but I do recall that I was initially sceptical about the fact that their guidance was entirely free of charge. However, they quickly demonstrated such professionalism and genuine support that I felt confident enough to continue pursuing my dream of studying abroad.

I attended several webinars and online talks organised by Across the Pond, where they explained the entire application process in great detail. It was during one of those sessions that I met my advisor. I was impressed by how knowledgeable she was about the procedures for studying in the UK, as well as her in-depth understanding of the different scholarships available. That was when I decided to reach out to her directly and share my intention to specialise in war and terrorism studies — a field with limited academic opportunities in Chile.
 

The process: between uncertainty and constant support

My advisor helped me with absolutely everything. She presented me with various Master’s programmes — all of excellent quality and at prestigious universities. As I needed to apply for a scholarship for financial reasons, we tailored the search based on their specific requirements. I eventually applied to three universities: the University of Leeds, King’s College London, and Queen’s University Belfast. To my surprise, I was accepted by all three.

My advisor managed the entire application process and kept me informed at every stage. I also had full access to each university's platform, allowing me to follow every step and message sent. It was, without a doubt, a collaborative and highly transparent effort.
We ultimately opted for the University of Leeds, as it best aligned with my academic background. However, my offer was conditional, as I did not meet the required IELTS score. The alternative was either to improve my score or take the university’s pre-sessional English course. Fortunately, I was awarded a scholarship from my country, but the dates did not match the start of the English course, so I was unable to join on time.

My advisor supported me throughout the process and contacted the university in search of a solution. Unfortunately, it was not possible to defer the offer to the following year, as the programme would not be offered again. It was a hard blow — I felt as if my dream was slipping away once more. However, Across the Pond provided me with immediate support. After assessing the situation, we planned a new application for the following year, this time prioritising King’s College London.
Over the next two years, my advisor continued to closely follow my progress. That time also allowed me to complete my Master’s in History in Chile and strengthen my academic profile to apply for the War Studies programme in London.
 

I made it: studying in the United Kingdom

Once the scholarship timeline and my acceptance at King’s aligned, my advisor guided me through the enrolment process for the pre-sessional English course offered by the university. And so, thanks to Across the Pond, I arrived in London to begin a truly unique academic and personal journey — first improving my English over six weeks at King’s, and then undertaking a full year on the War Studies programme.

The academic standard has been exceptional. Everything I have learned here has far exceeded my expectations. The experience has not only been enriching academically and in terms of networking, but it has also allowed me to make great friends and travel to other countries across Europe. Without doubt, it was the best decision I could have made — and a large part of that success is thanks to the impeccable work of Across the Pond and, in particular, my advisor.

I am currently still living in the UK, planning my professional career here. Most importantly, I remain in contact with my advisor, who continues to be involved in my journey with the same professionalism and commitment as on the very first day.

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I want to share my experience with Across the Pond because, quite honestly, I would not have made it here without the constant and dedicated support of my advisor. For over two years, she accompanied me every step of the way with a level of commitment that far exceeded my expectations. From selecting the right universities to navigating challenges such as language requirements and scholarship deadlines, she was always there, offering clarity, reassurance, and encouragement. Thanks to her guidance, I am now studying at King’s College London and living a transformative experience that once felt out of reach.

For all these reasons, I wholeheartedly recommend Across the Pond to anyone dreaming of studying in the UK. You will not only receive first-class professional advice, but also a level of human support that truly makes all the difference.

- Ignacio
 

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
 

For years, I have felt fascinated about British culture, this was the reason why I decided to study for a bachelor’s degree in English Language Teaching at university. Later on, I had the opportunity to work as a Spanish language assistant in the United Kingdom. This experience motivated me to pursue a postgraduate degree in the UK because, by being closer to British culture, I became fascinated by the environment, customs, and after learning more about the country’s education system, I decided to start saving money and preparing myself to study a master’s degree in the UK.

After five years of working, saving, and preparing, I decided to apply for a master’s degree in teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). However, since I was unfamiliar with the application process, I reached out to the agency “Across the Pond”, as it is well known among students who wish to study abroad (especially in the UK). I sent a message and throughout the entire process, they were very clear and provided timely support, both in terms of university options and funding opportunities. They were truly helpful—they never left me on my own and showed me financing options that I hadn’t known about until then, such as FIDERH and FUNED.

To help with funding, they held a webinar on how to apply and the steps to follow. All the information was very clear, and despite the fear I had about applying, the support from my family, the clear explanations, and the detailed payment plan were key in helping me apply for the FIDERH and FUNED loans. These loans are an investment in the future, as holding a postgraduate degree from abroad provides the opportunity to access better job positions, stay up to date in specialized areas of my professional field, and build a strong professional network that will lead to valuable cooperation in the future—not just between individuals but between countries as well.

My experience at the University of Essex has been very positive. I have learned a lot about English language teaching; the professors are experts in this field. In addition, my classmates come from different parts of the world, such as China, Taiwan, Vietnam, England, Iran, and Bangladesh. This university offers many extracurricular activities for students to make friends, and thanks to that, I’ve been able to connect with people from various countries. I also ran for President of Education at the university. Although I didn’t win because I didn’t get most votes, finishing in second place was a significant achievement. This experience greatly helped me strengthen friendships and expand my social circle.

- Eduardo
 

Becoming the Lawyer I Was Meant to Be – Abroad

When I first considered studying law, I wasn’t just looking for a degree – I was looking for a path that would give me perspective, purpose, and the tools to create change in my community back home in Canada.

Today, having completed my law degree at the University of Leicester and preparing to begin the GPLLM program at the University of Toronto, I can say with confidence: choosing to study in the UK was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

The University of Leicester gave me more than just legal knowledge. It gave me the ability to think globally, a stronger understanding of the common law system, and the academic credibility to continue my legal journey in Canada at one of its top institutions. My education abroad didn’t just meet expectations – it positioned me to thrive back home, with a story, a network, and a skillset that truly sets me apart.
 

Why I Chose to Study Law in the UK

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been passionate about justice – not just as an abstract concept, but as something lived. Growing up in Canada, I saw firsthand how legal systems can either uplift or fail the most vulnerable. I wanted to become a lawyer to help close those gaps. But I didn’t just want a legal education – I wanted perspective.

The UK, with its centuries-old common law tradition, offered exactly that. Its legal system forms the foundation of Canadian law, making it the perfect place to deepen my understanding of the profession I hope to enter. And as someone who hopes to work across borders – both in Canada and internationally – I knew studying here would give me the legal versatility and global outlook I was looking for.
 

Why the University of Leicester?

When researching UK law schools, I was drawn to Leicester for more than just rankings – I was drawn to its people. The University of Leicester’s JD Pathway Program stood out not only because of its focused Canadian curriculum, but because of its community. Our class was made up entirely of Canadian students – each of us with different stories, but united by the same ambition: to return home and make a difference.

That created something rare: a classroom where Canadian identity met British legal rigour. We supported each other, challenged each other, and helped each other grow. The professors understood our goals and tailored their teaching to bridge both legal systems. I didn’t feel like an international student struggling to keep up – I felt like I belonged.
 

Campus Life & Making Connections

Leicester itself is a city that grows on you – a place where old meets new, where the energy of student life hums through the streets. The campus is compact but full of life: modern study spaces, green corners to unwind, and cafes where friendships are forged over coffee and last-minute readings.

Even though my class was mostly Canadian, Leicester gave me access to a truly international student body. I joined societies, attended legal workshops, and met students from across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The diversity of ideas on campus was electric – and reminded me that law doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It lives in the lives and voices of those it impacts.
 

Adjusting from Canada to the UK

Leaving Canada to study law abroad was a bold decision – but also one of the most rewarding. Sure, the smaller portions, the different grading system, and the lack of snow in “winter” took some adjusting. But the real shift was mental.

Studying in the UK taught me how to be adaptable – how to take initiative, ask questions, and be okay not knowing everything right away. The learning curve was steep, but it forced me to grow in ways I wouldn’t have at home. And perhaps the most meaningful part? I was learning alongside other Canadians who understood exactly what I was going through – people who became more than classmates, they became family.
 

Across the Pond: The Quiet Heros

None of this would’ve happened without Across the Pond. From the moment I reached out, they were responsive, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable. They helped me choose the right university, polish my application, and guided me through the maze of visas, accommodation, and preparation.

What I appreciated most was that they never treated me like a number. They understood that this was a life decision, not just an academic one. And they supported it with genuine care. If you’re a Canadian student even thinking about studying in the UK – reach out to the Across the Pond team. They will make what feels impossible feel entirely within reach.
 

Final Reflections

Looking back, I realize that choosing to study law at Leicester wasn’t just about getting a degree. It was about rediscovering who I am – not just as a student, but as a future legal professional.

 I came here to understand the law. I left with so much more: confidence, community, clarity, and a global mindset that will shape everything I do from here forward.

The fact that I’m now heading into the GPLLM program at the University of Toronto – a program that completes my accreditation and prepares me for practice in Canada – is a direct result of the foundation Leicester gave me. I’m proud of the journey I’ve taken, and even more excited about where I’m headed.

To anyone thinking about studying law abroad – do it. It will challenge you. It will change you. And it might just become the best decision you ever make.

- Samir