Study in Bath, UK

The teaching and facilities at Bath are outstanding

I have just finished my first year at the University of Bath studying Biology with a professional placement and can confirm that moving is worth it!

After completing the international baccalaureate, I started exploring my options of studying abroad. As I had lived in England before I started looking at different universities across the country and the types of courses they offered. I was originally interested in politics and ended up applying for different combinations of politics, economics and international management. To aid in my application process, I contacted Across the Pond who acted as my school/student advisor and uploaded my predicted grades to UCAS (the university application portal used in the UK). Across the Pond were also able to advise me in how to finance my studies. They also helped me keep up to date with my application and would let me know if any additional information had been requested. The communication between me and the representative from Across the Pond was fast and essential to being able to attend university abroad. After I had received offers from 4 universities, I changed my mind about the course and decided that I wanted to study biology instead and to also defer starting uni until the next autumn. Instead of waiting to reapply the year after, I contacted the admissions of the university directly and asked to be reconsidered as a candidate for their biology with a professional placement course. I had also decided that I only wanted to try and get into the University of Bath, which I don’t recommend! Apply to more than one university for your course! The admissions team got back to me quickly and requested that I write a new personal statement. This is an example of how the university of Bath was able to be flexible and meet my needs.

After receiving my grades in the summer, I had an unconditional offer to study at the University of Bath starting the next autumn. During my gap year I worked in retail and travelled around Europe.

When September rolled around, I started packing and realised that two 23kg suitcases is hard to fit your previous life into! I moved into shared accommodation located on the very beautiful campus Bath has to offer. I lived with eleven other people, four other girls and seven boys, sharing the same kitchen and bathrooms. It was overwhelming being surrounded by people all the time especially as someone who has always considered themselves an introvert but after 9 months of living together, I consider them family and will continue living with the girls next year. Freshers’ week was a blast and included a lot of going out and exploring Bath’s nightlife. Christmas time was cozy; me and my flatmates made a big Christmas dinner together. Spring/early summer in Bath was dreamy, the location of our accommodation was in a green open space which we really took advantage of. Surrounding the campus are national trust fields which feature some of the most beautiful meadows and get very nice sunsets. If you value nature, then I really recommend the University of Bath! In the second semester, I met my boyfriend which has also allowed me to explore other areas of England when visiting his hometown.

Furthermore, the teaching and facilities at Bath are outstanding. I had many contact hours which included lectures, workshops and time in the labs. My favourite module was biodiversity where we would study a group of organisms in lectures for example plants and then have labs that would feature a wide range of extraordinary specimens. As well as the lecturers being present, there would also be two or three lab assistants that could answer your questions or just have a chat. I would leave the labs feeling inspired.

I also think that the city of Bath is a beautiful place to be a student, it is a heritage city which means that there are lots of tourists and there is always a busy feel. An aspect I really appreciate about Bath is that there isn’t a pressure to go out all the time partying and equally there isn’t a pressure to stay in all the time studying. There is always the opportunity for both. In addition, the University of Bath is a prestigious uni and a degree from there is usually very valuable.

In addition to my studies and social life, I also got a part time job in Bath. I work as a waitress at a restaurant and the money goes in my fun fund which only enhances my experience as a student. For example, to celebrate the end of exams me and some friends went to a festival in Bristol which is only a 15-minute train away!

If I were to do first year again, I would join more societies and sports! In the beginning it can be quite overwhelming, and I just didn’t feel I had the time to commit myself to more societies, however looking back I wish I would have! I did however join the Scandinavian society and met great people!

Despite the inevitably huge loan that I will have when I’ve finished my degree, I really think it is worth it. I have made friends I hope I will stay in contact with for life, I love my course, I love the freedom and feeling of accomplishment that comes along with establishing yourself in a new country. I can only wish that you also get a just as joyful experience.

- Lila
 

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Study at the university of Bristol

Bristol is a lively, accommodating and accessible city

Bristol has two universities to choose from: the University of Bristol (UoB) and University of West England (UWE). Both universities offer a variety of courses, and are renowned for at least a few- UoB is known for research, specifically in science, social science and law, and UWE is known for it’s practical and industry-focused approach to teaching. Either way, your education is in great hands.

The great thing about studying in Bristol is you have a choice of how to spend your university years. UWE has multiple campuses, some in the concrete jungle we call Bristol and one on the outskirts if you are looking for a quieter, more peaceful experience. UoB is located in the city, but it offers quiet accommodation, depending on where you apply.

But by far the best thing about Bristol is how accommodating it is. If you are looking for a party scene, Bristol is known for that, you don’t have to look far! If you are looking for quiet evenings, Bristol is good at that, too. There are a lot of events hosted by locals to participate in, all listed primarily on Eventbrite and a variety of other websites, ranging from a tour of the Cathedral to free makeup courses to Lego building. Bristol is big enough to have various shopping malls, trampolining areas, parks and even an ice-skating rink in the winter, and big enough to be meeting new people at all times if you so wish, but not big enough to ever truly feel lost like London. The city is alive, and you feel that when you walk around the streets meeting friendly strangers. The city is divided into multiple areas, ranging from posh Clifton to international Redland to historic Redcliffe, but united in its warm population. In fact, people like it here so much, that it isn’t uncommon for people to stay in Bristol after they graduate. There truly is something for everyone!

If you value travel, Bristol is very accessible. It has a train station going from London all the way to Edinburgh, and even its own airport flying internationally. The bus station can also take you to a variety of destinations via buses for cheaper transportation options. If you have a friend who drives or you drive yourself, you can get to the coast in a matter of an hour from the city centre of Bristol. The city of Bath, located a brief 20 minute train ride away from Bristols train station, offers exploration and a variety of other activities to do.

As a fellow international student, it’s easy to find people from home. The best way to start is by joining the society of your university specific to your home country or continent. There are also online forums of people looking for others in Bristol from the same country, sometimes as specific as city!

None of that would be valuable if the city of Bristol weren’t safe. The only theft I’ve heard of is a bike stolen when it wasn’t locked to anything. As a woman, I am comfortable asking a stranger for directions and using public transport. If you ever do feel unsafe, there is a service offered by the universities- a phone number you call, and local police will arrive and escort you to your destination safely. I don’t know of anyone who needed to use that service, man, woman or otherwise. Obviously, don’t be senseless about your belongings or your information, don’t ask for trouble. But if you have even a smidge of logic and self-preservation skills, you will be more than okay.

In conclusion, Bristol is a lively, accommodating and accessible city which would be more than happy to have you for your university (and potentially beyond) years!

- Sophia
 

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Study at Oxford Brookes University

A Journey of Growth and New Possibilities

Studying in the UK has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It shaped not only my career path but also my personal development, giving me the confidence, skills, and global exposure needed to thrive in today’s competitive world.

I earned a B.Sc. in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University, and that single step opened many doors for me. The quality of the UK’s academic system is world-class, challenging yet practical. The experience pushed me to think critically, solve problems with a structured approach, and communicate my ideas effectively.

Soon after graduation, I gained employment as a Project Accountant at the Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON). HERFON is a multilateral-funded international NGO focused on health advocacy. Working there for several years allowed me to apply what I learned while also contributing to meaningful, life-changing health initiatives. The professional training and exposure I received from my UK education played a major role in equipping me for this kind of responsibility.

Later, I became a licensed Chartered Accountant through ICAN (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria) and established my own accounting firm. Since then, I have consulted both local and international organizations. The foundational skills I gained from Oxford Brookes gave me the confidence to start and lead a firm, manage clients, and offer top-tier financial and business services.

In 2025, I was honored to be selected as a finalist for the British Council Alumni Award for Business and Innovation in Nigeria. Being recognized by such a prestigious institution was a proud moment and a clear sign that the UK education system continues to produce globally relevant professionals. It also motivated me to continue expanding my knowledge and expertise.

Driven by this momentum, I went on to complete an Associate Degree in Computer Science, supported by the grant from the British Council, along with additional scholarships and personal funding. This education has helped me transition beyond accounting into fields like cybersecurity, data analysis, and digital innovation. It has widened my horizon and introduced me to tools and technologies that are reshaping how modern businesses operate.

Today, I combine my accounting background with data and technology to help clients make smarter decisions. I’ve even begun developing an accounting software application designed for small and medium-sized enterprises. It is practical, user-friendly, and solves real-world problems for business owners.

Looking back, what stands out most is how UK education doesn’t just train you to pass exams, it prepares you for life. It taught me how to learn independently, communicate with impact, work across cultures, and adapt to new challenges. These are the exact skills that employers, clients, and international organizations are looking for today.

To any high school graduate or aspiring university student: I strongly encourage you to consider the UK for your higher education. It’s not just about the degree, it’s about who you become in the process. You’ll be challenged, supported, and inspired in ways that prepare you to succeed on a global stage.

As someone who started with a dream and took that leap, I can say with full confidence that a UK education gave me the tools to turn potential into purpose. It’s a journey worth taking, and I hope my story encourages you to begin with yours.

- Ladi
 

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Study at Kingston University in London

Student Life, Big City Chaos and Small Adventures: A Year in London

London: More Than Just a Big City

My year in London has given me experiences, friendships and memories I could only have dreamed of back home in Norway. Before leaving to the UK, my goal was to make the absolute most of my time here: travel around the UK and Europe, push myself outside my comfort zone and create new memories, both alone and with others. Looking back on this year, I realise that all of this actually happened. Moving from tiny Norway to the sprawling metropolis of London has been incredibly educational — and at times a bit strange. Still, you adapt surprisingly quickly to the package deal that is London life: LOTS of public transport, a strong pub culture and a constant dose of spontaneity. Despite this new everyday life, studying in London has given me huge returns, both personally and academically.
 

What Studying in the UK Was Really like

I did an MSc in International Business Management with a focus on finance and sustainability at Kingston University London. The university is located in Kingston upon Thames, a charming suburb in southwest London, about half an hour by train from the city centre. Previously, I had completed a bachelor’s degree in economics and management in Bodø, plus an exchange semester in Germany. So moving to London was quite a leap. Luckily, I’ve always loved to travel, so language and making international friends were no obstacle. Still, I had never studied in the UK before, and was curious how it would be. While my studies in Norway were almost entirely based on written in-class exams, here it was mostly coursework. Most assignments involved analysing a self-chosen company on different themes depending on the module, which made the studies very practical and interesting.
 

Endless Opportunities and Little Adventures

Living in London opens up a sea of opportunities. Whether you want to travel, enjoy culture and sports, or dance the night away, there’s always something going on. As someone who loves travelling and history, I took the chance to visit a bunch of UK cities: Edinburgh, York, Newcastle upon Tyne, Cambridge, Brighton, Folkestone, Oxford, Manchester, Cardiff, Bath and the iconic chalk cliffs at Seven Sisters. You’d think the distances were huge, but all these trips were either day trips or short overnight stays in affordable hostels. It led to many great memories — with new friends and on solo trips. If you book trains early, the prices are surprisingly student-friendly, and London has direct connections to most of these places. On top of that, I took cheap flights to various spots in Europe, including Italy, Romania and Slovakia. In short: London is the perfect base for anyone who loves to explore.

Cultural and sporting events are also a huge part of life in London. There’s always something happening — musicals, concerts or football matches — and I’ve taken full advantage. It was especially cool to see Bodø/Glimt play Manchester United at Old Trafford, and also such fun to go to Mamma Mia The Party in London. In one week alone, I managed to go to three concerts (Beyoncé, Dua Lipa and Chris Brown). I actually went to the Beyoncé concert on my own, a bit nervous, but it turned out to be a fantastic night and I met loads of lovely people. For me, experiences like these are important because they give that extra motivation and something to look forward to in everyday life. Plus, London offers all kinds of nightlife — whether it’s a night out with my Norwegian gang, techno clubbing with my German flatmate or relaxed pub evenings with friends. These are just a few examples of all the memorable things I have done during the year!
 

A Chapter I Would Never Be Without

My year in London has been one of the most enriching and rewarding chapters of my life. It’s given me new insights, academic growth, memories for life and friends from all over the world. I’ve grown so much — become more independent, confident and curious. This year has shown me just how much can happen when you decide to move somewhere new and try something different.

Finally, I want to give a huge thank you to Across the Pond for all their help with the application process. Without their valuable advice and expertise, this adventure wouldn’t have been nearly as easy to pull off. I can safely say that my study year in London has been truly one in a million, and I’d do it all over again without hesitation.

- Edward
 

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Study Psychology in London?

Intellectually stimulating and deeply reflective

Hello! My name is Rida, and I’m an international student from Pakistan currently completing my BSc in Psychology at Royal Holloway, University of London. My time here has been a transformative journey, both academically and personally.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my student life was becoming a Student Ambassador. This role gave me the opportunity to represent Royal Holloway to prospective students from around the world. Whether it was speaking at Open Days or guiding visitors around campus, I found genuine joy in sharing my experience and being part of a welcoming, supportive community.

Studying psychology has been intellectually stimulating and deeply reflective. The course structure allowed me to explore everything from cognitive neuroscience to developmental psychology. I particularly appreciated how practical examples were integrated into learning like using sensory associations (such as a specific perfume while studying and revising with it later for better recall) to understand memory processes. It’s amazing how applicable psychology becomes to daily life.

Although my initial plan was to continue straight into a master’s degree and secure a psychology-related job, my time at university helped me reassess and explore wider interests, such as Human Resources and Learning & Development. It showed me the value of staying open-minded and adapting your path as you grow.

Outside of academics, being an international student taught me crucial life skills. I learned to manage my finances, live independently, and build friendships that will last a lifetime. Living in the UK has also expanded my worldview, I’ve become more self-reliant, tolerant, and confident in social and professional spaces.

To anyone considering Royal Holloway or studying in the UK: it’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. There are challenges, but there are also countless opportunities—on campus, in your course, and within yourself. My advice is to be proactive, stay open to new experiences, and don’t be afraid to carve your own path.

- Rida
 

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Study Business Analytics in London

My Journey from Pakistan to Royal Holloway: Finding a Home Away from Home

Moving to a new country as an international student is never an easy decision. You are leaving behind family, friends, and everything familiar to start a new chapter in an unfamiliar land. When I arrived in the UK to begin my MSc in Business Analytics at Royal Holloway, I felt a mix of excitement, nervousness, and uncertainty. But very quickly, those feelings were replaced by a deep sense of belonging, something I never expected to feel so soon after landing.

From the moment I stepped onto campus, I could tell that Royal Holloway was not just a university, it was a community. The lush green spaces, the iconic Founder's Building, and the genuine warmth of everyone I encountered instantly made me feel at ease. It did not matter that I was from another country, I was treated as part of something bigger, a shared experience of learning, growing, and becoming.

One of the most comforting aspects of my experience has been the incredible support network for international students. From orientation to academic support, and even career advice tailored for international graduates, the university has made it clear that I am not on this journey alone. The International Student Support Office answered questions I had not even thought to ask yet, and events like the Welcome Week helped me make friends from all over the world. In just a few days, I formed bonds that will likely last a lifetime.

Academically, the experience has been both challenging and rewarding. Studying at a globally respected institution like Royal Holloway has pushed me to think critically, apply my knowledge practically, and grow as a future data driven decision-maker. What makes it even more special is the collaborative atmosphere. Professors are approachable, seminars are interactive, and students genuinely support one another, a refreshing shift from the sometimes rigid academic cultures I was used to.

But beyond lectures and coursework, it’s the small things that have made this journey so memorable, sharing food from different cultures with flatmates, late-night walks across the beautifully lit campus, or simply being greeted with a smile by someone from a completely different background. It’s in these moments that you realise how truly global and yet closely knitted the Royal Holloway community is.

I also had the opportunity to become a Postgraduate Student Ambassador, which has been a highlight of my time here. It’s given me a chance to give back, to support new students as they take their first steps into this new life, just as I once did. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my story and support might make someone else’s transition smoother.

Looking back, choosing Royal Holloway was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s not just the academic prestige or the beautiful campus, it’s the people, the culture, and the unwavering support that truly make this place feel like home. As an international student, you expect challenges but what you might not expect is just how quickly those challenges are softened by kindness, inclusion, and opportunity.

To anyone considering studying here, take the leap. Royal Holloway will not just educate you, it will empower you, connect you, and most importantly, welcome you with open arms.

- Muhammed Uzair
 

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Study Fashion in Manchester?

This New Chapter of My Life Feels Like a DREAM!

⭐ Who I Am and Why I Chose to Study in the UK

My name is Sofia, and I’m an Italian student passionate about fashion and creativity. I’ve always wanted to expand my horizons and learn in a diverse and inspiring environment. Choosing to study in the UK felt like the perfect opportunity to do just that, thanks to its world-class education system, vibrant international community, and practical approach to learning.

Studying here allows me to grow both academically and personally, gaining skills and experiences that I couldn’t have found anywhere else. The UK offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, and being part of this dynamic culture motivates me every day.
 

🏫 Why I Chose University of Salford, Manchester

I chose the University of Salford because of its reputation in the fashion world and its strong connections with the industry. The campus is full of energy, with creative spaces, modern facilities, and cozy corners perfect for studying (or just daydreaming over a coffee). I especially love spending time in the library and design studio. They’re like a second home now!
 

🇮🇹 Italian vs. 🇬🇧British Universities

 Growing up in Italy, university life felt quite different compared to what I’ve experienced here in the UK, and I have to say, studying in the UK has been a wonderful surprise!

Italian universities tend to be more formal and traditional, with large lectures that lack interaction. The focus is mainly on exams and theory, which can sometimes feel disconnected from real-world practice.

In contrast, I love how UK universities emphasise creativity, practical work, and collaboration. Classes are smaller and more dynamic, with workshops, group projects, and plenty of opportunities to apply what you learn.

The teaching style encourages questions and personal expression, which suits me much better. On top of that, the support services and vibrant campus life here make the experience truly engaging and student-centered. From accessible tutors, to social events and clubs, it feels like the University genuinely cares about our growth, not just academically, but personally too.

For me, the UK system is the right fit: it’s not just about education, but a life-changing adventure that suits my style of learning and personal growth perfectly.
 

 🧵What I Study & Why I Love It

I study Fashion & Design and I absolutely love how the course blends theory with hands-on work. From styling workshops to drawing sessions, every class pushes me creatively. The tutors are supportive, and there are always opportunities to showcase our work or collaborate with other students. 👗✂️

I was even selected to present my creations on the runway TWICE during just the first term, which felt surreal! It gave me such a boost of confidence and made me feel like I was exactly where I’m meant to be. It’s a DREAM COME TRUE.
 

 🛏️ My Student Accommodation

This first year I lived in a shared student apartment with four other girls, and we share a kitchen. It’s been one of the most interesting parts of my experience, sometimes chaotic, sometimes hilarious, but always full of life and cultural exchange.🍝🌶️ 🥐

Some of my favourite memories are the many evenings spent teaching my English friends how to make real Italian pizza and cook pasta THE RIGHT WAY (not just boiling it and throwing sauce on top 😄). We’ve had pasta nights with music, laughter, and even debates over whether pineapple belongs on pizza (spoiler: it doesn't!). Those moments turned our kitchen into the heart of our home.
 

 🌦️ Weather & Culture Shock? Say Less

Before moving to the UK, I expected non-stop rain, grey skies, and constant cold, but honestly? It’s not that dramatic. Yes, the weather can be unpredictable, but I’ve learned to embrace it: layer up, grab an umbrella, and you’re good to go. And when the sun comes out? Everyone’s in shorts, even if it’s 12°C. 😄

But the real culture shock? The food. British people really do love their baked beans, at any hour of the day! And I’ve never seen so many potatoes cooked in so many different ways. 🥔 Mashed, roasted, jacket, fried, boiled... they’re everywhere. It was a bit of a surprise at first, coming from Italy where olive oil reigns and carbs usually mean pasta, but now I’ve come to appreciate the quirky comfort of a full English breakfast (though I still draw the line at beans on toast).
 

🏙️ Manchester, The City I Now Call Home

Manchester has quickly become one of my favourite places in the world. I love how the city mixes old industrial charm with modern creativity, it’s like every corner tells a story. One of my favourite memories is wandering through the Northern Quarter and Deansgate on a Saturday morning, discovering little gems such as vintage shops and stopping for coffee at a tiny café where the barista knows my order by heart. By now, I know where all the Italian restaurants and supermarkets in Manchester are! I guess my love for home-cooked Italian food is just as strong here as it was back home! 🍝🇮🇹

 Manchester has this amazing vibe that makes me feel inspired and at home, even though I’m far from Italy.
 

👫 Friends & Free Time

In my free time, I love hanging out with my friends. We often explore the city together, trying new cafes, visiting art galleries, or just relaxing in the park when the weather is nice. ☀️

I also enjoy hosting little get-togethers at my flat, where I cook Italian dishes and we share stories and laughs. It’s amazing how food brings people together and creates a sense of family. 💞 Whether we’re out discovering new places or just having a cozy movie night, these moments make my experience here truly special.
 

🗣️ Studying in English

Honestly, I didn’t have any problems with the language. I’ve always understood and spoken English quite well. What’s funny is that since moving to Manchester, I’ve even picked up a bit of a northerner accent! 🐝

 Now my friends back home say I sound like I’ve lived here forever, and I kind of love it. Studying in English at university has improved my academic vocabulary and communication skills more than I ever expected. Being immersed in an English-speaking environment has boosted my confidence and made me feel ready for any challenge.
 

💡 What I Wish I Knew Before Coming

Before arriving, I imagined the UK weather to be a constant storm of wind and rain, but it’s actually not that bad! Sure, there are grey days, but there are also plenty of cozy, sunny moments in between. The key is layering, a good coat, and always having a POSITIVE ATTITUDE. ☁️☀️ What really surprised me, though, was how much there is to do here! From weekend walks around the city to day trips to Liverpool (perfect for a sea lover like me 🌊), and even hiking adventures in the Lake District. 🥾⛰️ I never expected to find so much variety and beauty just a short train ride away.
 

🤝 GRAZIE (thank you), Across the Pond!

I applied through Across the Pond, and I’m so glad I did. Their support was incredible: from helping me choose the right University to giving me information about the visa process and sharing helpful tips before departure.

A special thank you to my advisor, who followed me through every step with patience and kindness. We still keep in touch from time to time, which really shows how personal and genuine their support was. 💌

So far, studying in the UK is one of the most exciting, challenging, and beautiful experiences of my life. I’ve grown so much, not just as a student, but as a person. 

If you’re thinking about taking the leap, DO IT. You might just find your place in the rain, too. 🌈 

- Sofia
 

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How is student life in Leeds?

How to meet people and settle in Leeds

My journey to Leeds

“Keep moving forward, do not look back” were the words my father told me as I was saying goodbye to my family at the airport. Upon hearing that, my long-held efforts of not crying came crashing down. Although coming to do my master’s degree in the UK was a dream I had had for a long time, leaving the warmness of home was daunting. Looking at my dad, the man that never cried, with teary eyes, made me feel bittersweet. I knew that he was proud of me, and I intended to follow his recommendation. With a last hug, I embarked on a 12-hour journey to the city that would become my second home.

Since day one, the University makes it easy to meet people. The first friends I made were during the shuttle from Manchester to Leeds. Talking with each other, we found out that we were all master’s students from Latin America and coincidentally we were staying in the same residence.

We walked together at 9pm from the University to St. Marks accommodation. We were a little lost and carrying our luggage, but happy that we had found each other.
 

International Orientation Week

An unmissable opportunity to make long lasting friends is attending the International Orientation Week. Through the conferences, webinars, activities, and parties organized, you will meet people from all around the world. Don’t worry if you don’t remember all the details of the people you meet, because more likely than not, you will be seeing them in the next event. Take advantage of the closeness and familiarity that this week provides, to reinforce the initial connections you make. I would recommend keeping in touch through social media and don’t be scared to reach out!
 

Enhance your CV and your connections through societies

On the 23 and 24th of September, the Welcome Fair showcases many societies that both undergraduate and postgraduate students can join. Visit the stands at the fair, but also browse through the “Clubs & Societies” page to know the more than 300 groups you could be a part of. I joined the “Women in Leadership” society, where I could network with like-minded women, as well as benefit from events to improve my professional skills. 

Additionally, there are “Give it a Go (GIAG)” events where you can join activities before deciding to join a society. Follow the clubs’ social media to know the dates where the GIAG will take place. I went to the LATAM Society’s social at the Eldon, which was a great opportunity to meet a community that made me feel close to home. At their next GIAG, we went to a nightclub with Latin music. Because of the society, I got to know many places relating to my culture around Leeds. I strongly recommend looking for the groups that bring you close to home, they will help you avoid feeling homesick during your study abroad.
 

I have no doubt that you will love your time at Leeds!

Although doing something out of your routine can be difficult, take advantage of all the events and activities that the University and the Union organize. Don’t be afraid to be part of communities you are familiar with, but also be open to learn about other cultures. You will soon find out, like I did, that Leeds is a very close-knit town that makes it feel you have known your new friends since forever.

- Sandra
 

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Student accommodation in Leeds

My Experience Living in a Student Residence

Once I had made the decision to study at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, my next step was choosing accommodation. There were several factors to consider: cost, proximity to campus, safety, opportunities for socialising, among others. I began by exploring the university’s student residence options on their website, followed by private accommodation listings. Each option varied in terms of the number of flatmates, shared or private facilities, and whether it catered to undergraduate or postgraduate students. 

To stay organised, I created a spreadsheet to compare each accommodation side by side, which helped me make a more informed decision. After weighing the pros and cons, I chose to live in university-managed accommodation, primarily because of the sense of safety it offered and how close it was to campus. I was asked to pay a deposit and was given the option of paying in instalments over the academic year. The residence application also allowed me to indicate preferences like living with people of the same gender, religion, or dietary requirements, which was essential to me. 

If you’re considering private accommodation, keep in mind that many landlords will ask for a guarantor, who must be based in the UK. Otherwise, they may require you to pay the full amount upfront before your arrival. 

Before moving in, I arranged for a postal delivery of essentials like a bedding set and towel so that I could settle in comfortably on my first night. Upon arrival, I received a welcome booklet that explained the main rules and offered useful tips for living in the residence, along with a kit with some snacks. 

In total, I shared the flat with five other female students. We shared a kitchen, washing machine, and dryer. One of my top tips is to get to know your flatmates early on. Attending events or joining activities together is a great way to bond and makes day-to-day life much smoother. If possible, consider pooling money to buy common kitchen items like pots, blenders, or toasters. It’s cost-effective and helps better utilize the kitchen space. 

One of the things I loved most about my accommodation is its location, just 10 minutes from the Business School. It’s incredibly convenient for attending lectures, conferences, and university events without the stress of a long commute. Another bonus is the variety of social events organised by the residence’s social committee, made up of student volunteers living on-site. It’s been an easy and low-pressure way to meet people and have fun within a comfortable space. 

Since my residence is primarily for postgraduate students, there’s a close-knit community vibe. It’s common to bump into friends in the hallway or common areas, and that familiarity makes it easy to organise small gatherings or celebrations together. 

Where you live can really shape your overall university experience. It influences your access to campus facilities, your social life, and your sense of comfort and security. I’d highly recommend doing thorough research, checking out past student reviews on social media, and reflecting on your personal non-negotiables, like whether you’re okay with sharing a bathroom or sticking to a set budget, before making your decision. 

- Sandra
 

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Why study at Leeds Business School?

Why study at Leeds University Business School?

If you're interested in areas like data analytics, accounting, marketing, entrepreneurship, international business, among others, Leeds University Business School is an excellent place to grow both academically and personally. It’s part of the University of Leeds, one of the UK’s leading institutions, and holds the prestigious triple accreditation (AMBA, EQUIS, and AACSB). Located in one of the most vibrant and student-friendly cities in the UK, the School blends academic research with practical learning.

I'm currently pursuing a Master's in Business Analytics and Decision Sciences. One of the main reasons I chose Leeds was the wide range of scholarships available. The Business School offers over 100 Excellence Scholarships to both UK and international students starting a Master's course, covering up to 50% of tuition fees. As an international student from Mexico, receiving one of these scholarships played a big role in my decision, it made studying abroad more accessible and gave me a sense of being truly valued.

Once classes began, I found the transition to be smooth. The university uses an app that helped me track my timetable and access learning materials. Each term, I had four modules, made up of lectures, where concepts were introduced, and seminars that provided practical applications through interactive sessions. One thing that was new for me was that each module was assessed entirely through a final exam or assignment, which took some adjustment.

My highlight so far has definitely been the Postgraduate Study Tour Programme. Each year, a select group of 20 students from three Master's programmes are chosen to study abroad for a week. I had the amazing opportunity to visit the University of Antwerp in Belgium. We attended lectures in the mornings and spent our afternoons visiting companies and cultural landmarks like the European Parliament and Chocolate Nation.

Beyond the classroom, the Business School hosts competitions and challenges where students put their skills to the test for prizes and recognition. These events, combined with the University’s Careers Service and visits from major companies, create a strong foundation for gaining professional experience and building your CV.

As I approach the end of my degree, I’m incredibly grateful I chose to study at the University of Leeds. It wasn’t an easy decision at the time, but it’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. If you're unsure about studying abroad, don’t hesitate, it’s an investment in your future and a powerful opportunity for personal and professional growth.

- Sandra
 

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