Hi! My name is Julie, and I’m 23 years old. I’m from Oslo, Norway. I moved to the UK when I was 21 to start my studies at Oxford Brookes University, and it’s honestly been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

It all started when I went on a language trip with EF to Oxford Brookes. I fell in love with the city during that visit. I’ve always been passionate about English, languages, and exploring different cultures, so I knew I wanted to pursue a bachelor’s degree abroad. I was considering both Italy and the UK, but something about Oxford really stayed with me.

Choosing a programme wasn’t easy; I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do. But I knew I loved working with people, and after living in Italy for three months, I had developed a strong interest in travel, good food, and wine. Hospitality felt like the natural direction, and when I saw that Oxford Brookes offered a degree in International Hospitality and Hotel Management, with a management focus too, everything just clicked.

The university has been great. The teachers are incredibly knowledgeable, passionate, and supportive. It’s also been so rewarding to study alongside people who share similar interests, there’s a real sense of community in the classroom.

Making friends was really easy, especially during Freshers Week (which is similar to “fadderuke” in Norway). It’s a fun and social week for all new students to meet each other and go out. There were also group chats where you could connect with people who had similar interests or who came from the same country. That’s actually how I met most of my friends.

During our very first semester, some of us started a Scandinavian Society at the university. It began as a small group of Norwegians, Swedes, and Danes, but it quickly grew. Soon, even non-Scandinavian students began to join because they liked the vibe and the events we organised. It was really cool to see how something like that could create a genuine sense of belonging and bring people together. It definitely helped expand our friend group and made uni life feel even more like home.

In my first year, I lived in Cheney Student Village with five others I didn’t know beforehand. Since I started university a little later than most, my flatmates were a bit younger, but we had a great time and I’m still in contact with most of them. In second year, I moved into a house with my best friends from Freshers Week, and it was amazing. We did everything together, and I’d really recommend living with friends if you get the chance.

Oxford is a beautiful city with so much to offer. Even after two years, I still haven’t seen or done everything! There’s always something new to explore, whether it’s cozy cafés, cool pubs, historic spots, or gorgeous green spaces.

One thing to keep in mind is that student housing, both university accommodation and private rentals, can be quite pricey, especially with the NOK being weak. But it’s definitely manageable with some planning.

The move to the UK was smooth for me. I got help from my parents, and the university helped organise move-in dates and gave lots of support with settling in.

Looking back, moving abroad has helped me grow so much. I feel like I’ve really stepped into adulthood. Being exposed to new cultures, people, and perspectives has opened my mind and shaped who I am today. I’ve gained so much confidence and independence, and I’m so grateful for the experience.

My advice to future students:

Say yes to opportunities, even if they feel a bit scary at first. Go to events, join societies, and talk to people. Everyone is in the same boat and looking to make friends, especially in the beginning. Don’t stress if you’re unsure about your exact path when you start your studies; you’ll figure it out along the way.

- Julie
 

Taking the leap

I have always wanted to study outside of my own country. The idea of experiencing a new culture, meeting new people, and challenging myself academically and personally had been on my mind for a long time. When the opportunity to study in Oxford came up, I knew I had to take it.

Thankfully, I had help from Across the Pond with the application process, which made everything smoother and far less stressful. Knowing I had support behind me gave me the confidence to take the next step.
 

A big, scary step

Once everything was in place, the reality hit me: I was going to a completely new country... on my own. I had never been at an airport alone, never travelled solo, and never lived away from home. It was overwhelming to think about, and honestly, a bit terrifying. But it turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Leaving my comfort zone in such a major way forced me to grow quickly. I had to learn how to manage daily life on my own, navigate a new academic system, and build a new social life from scratch.
 

A Confidence Boost

Looking back, I am amazed at how much I have grown… more than I ever expected. Not just as a student, but as a friend, and most importantly, as an individual. I have discovered strengths I did not know I had, and I have learned to trust myself more.

Studying abroad has given me a new sense of confidence. I feel more capable, more independent, and more aware of who I am and what I want. It is an experience I will carry with me forever.

- Karoline
 

Hi! My name is Sara and I come from Bergen, Norway. I completed high school with a specialization in science, and also had an exciting year as an exchange student in Cardiff, Wales. That experience gave me a taste for studying in the UK and opened my eyes to an international study environment.

I am currently studying a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in London, specializing in finance and marketing. I chose to study in London and the UK because I wanted a unique study experience in the middle of a global finance and marketing hub, the perfect place for both education and future job opportunities. In addition, I wanted to challenge myself and experience something completely different from Norway. An additional motivation for me was also that some around me thought I would not succeed; it gave me a strong desire to prove that I could do it.
 

Student life in London

London is a huge and diverse city that never stands still. The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic, with a cultural scene that ranges from historical museums and iconic musicals to small art galleries and live concerts in local pubs. People here come from all over the world, and I especially notice this at my school, which is an international school with students from all sorts of backgrounds and cultures. It makes everyday life incredibly exciting, you learn something new about other countries and cultures almost every day.

Studying in London is both chaotic and incredibly fun. The city can be overwhelming at times, with busy transport, a fast pace and countless opportunities, but that is precisely what makes the experience so unique. As a student here, I meet people from all corners of the world on a daily basis, and it has given me new perspectives, broadened my horizons and made me feel like part of a global community.

London also gives you a sense of freedom and endless possibilities, there is always something going on, whether it is an exhibition, a festival, an exciting lecture or a spontaneous event in the park. You never have to be bored here. At the same time, I have learned the importance of taking breaks, finding peace and appreciating small everyday moments in the midst of the chaos of the city, such as having a coffee in one of the countless small cafes, taking a walk along the Thames, or relaxing in one of the city's many parks.

One of the best things about being a student in London is that you are constantly surrounded by people who are just as ambitious as you. Many of them have big dreams, and it is inspiring to be part of an environment where everyone is looking for new opportunities. In addition, studying in such an international city is a golden opportunity to build networks, both social and professional, which can be valuable for the rest of your life.
 

Housing and everyday life

When I first moved to London, I knew little about the housing market here, and it was a steep learning curve. I found a room to rent online, and it was a very special experience: I moved in with a doctor who had a large parrot that sang and talked all day. The apartment was about 40 minutes away from school, which made the commute time-consuming and stressful. Although I regret that particular choice a little, I learned a lot about what to look for when finding a place to live, and I am left with a unique story to tell.

Eventually, I moved in with a friend I met at school. We rent a relatively large apartment in central London. We have space to cook, relax, and invite friends over, and I pay around 12,000 kroner a month. The standard is good, although the apartment is not ultra-modern, it has everything we need, and I like that it has a bit of a "2000 vibe" with wooden floors, old-fashioned details and a cozy touch that makes it feel homely in the middle of the big city.

My everyday life is busy, but I enjoy it. I combine my studies with a part-time job as a bartender and receptionist at a hotel, where I work about 20 hours a week, divided over three days. The job was surprisingly easy to find, and it has given me many opportunities: I have received several job offers while I have been at work, and I have built a large network of both local and international contacts. This network has been incredibly valuable, both socially and professionally.

A typical day often starts with an early morning workout to get energy for the day. After training, I go to school, and some days I go straight to work after classes. In the evenings I spend cooking dinner with my girlfriend, doing schoolwork, or taking a break with a series. On weekends I prioritize hanging out with friends, exploring new places in London or traveling, and of course, studying a bit every now and then.

When it comes to food and shopping, London has everything you could possibly want, from small, independent food shops with international products to giant supermarkets and exciting markets like Borough Market. In terms of transportation, I mostly use the Tube, buses and walking, and I've gradually gotten used to how hectic rush hour can be. At the same time, I appreciate how quickly and efficiently I can get around the city.
 

Academic experience

The school I attend has a completely different approach than what I was used to in Norway, and it has really challenged me in a positive way. Instead of traditional exams, the teaching focuses on group work and practical scenarios drawn from real life. We get large projects and presentations that we work on in teams over seven weeks, where we have to collaborate, find solutions and adapt, just like you have to in the working world. This way of working has made me better at communicating, planning and handling conflicts, and I feel that I have gained a realistic insight into what it is like to work in the business world.

One of the things I like best is how practical the teaching is. For example, we get assignments where we have to create marketing campaigns, financial analyses or strategic plans for real companies. Working with actual companies gives us an understanding of the challenges and dilemmas they face, and how theory from textbooks can be applied in practice. This makes the learning relevant, exciting and motivating.

The learning environment feels a bit like high school, but in a good way: The classes are small, with a maximum of 30 students, and this creates a safe and informal atmosphere where it is easy to raise your hand, participate actively and ask questions. The lecturers are accessible and interested in the students, and we quickly build a personal relationship with them. I have experienced that the teachers remember my name, give constructive feedback and really want me to succeed.

The classroom dynamic is also very international, with students from all corners of the world. It provides exciting discussions, different perspectives and many aha experiences when you understand how different cultures can think completely differently about the same issue. It has made me more open, patient and better able to work in diverse teams.

All in all, my school has given me a professional experience that feels relevant to the working world, while at the same time I have learned an enormous amount about collaboration, leadership and creative problem solving. I feel better prepared for a career in finance and marketing than I would have with more traditional education.
 

Social life and free time

Socially, London has exceeded all my expectations. It is incredibly easy to meet new people, and I have made friends both through class, school in general and my job. I actually met my two closest friends at work, we had good chemistry right away, and it has been extra nice that they also go to the same school as me. I find that everyone is open to getting to know each other, and because you constantly change classes based on which subjects you take, you have the opportunity to meet many new people throughout your studies.

London is a city where there is always something happening, and it is almost impossible to get bored. I have spent a lot of time exploring different neighborhoods with friends, from the colorful streets of Notting Hill to the hip markets of Camden or the cozy cafes of Shoreditch. We have often had spontaneous evenings with food from all over the world, gone to small concerts or discovered bars with live jazz. There are also always events for students, both at school and in the city in general, which makes it easy to socialize.

I have been on the school football team, which has been a fun way to combine exercise and socializing. It has not only given me new friends, but also helped me stay active in a hectic everyday life. I am also part of a couple of student associations that arrange monthly meetings and occasional social events, such as quiz nights or theme parties. These events have been great opportunities to get to know people from other disciplines, and to share experiences with students who are in the same situation as me.

On the weekends, I try to find a balance between relaxing, doing schoolwork, and experiencing the city. I often go out to try new restaurants, visit museums or parks, or take day trips out of the city. I love being social, but I have also learned the importance of taking time for myself, especially in a city like London that can be both exciting and tiring at the same time.

All in all, the social life in London has given me memories to last a lifetime, and I have made friends from all over the world who I know I will keep in touch with long after my studies are over.
 

Travel and discovery

One of the best parts of living and studying in London is how easy it is to travel, the city is a hub that makes it easy to get around both the UK and Europe. I have travelled quite a bit since moving here, and it has given me memories that I will never forget.

Within the UK, I have taken several trips to Scotland, which have been absolutely magical. I visited the Highlands, where the scenery is like something out of a movie, with green valleys, mirror-like lakes and majestic castles. I have also been to small towns in the South of England and loved the cozy atmosphere, old buildings and traditional pubs.

Outside the UK, I have used London's fantastic connections to go on weekend trips and holidays to several places in Europe. I have been to Split in Croatia, where I swam in crystal clear waters and explored the old town, to Nice and Monaco along the French Riviera, where I enjoyed the beach life and delicious food, and to the Netherlands and Belgium on spontaneous trips with friends. Many of the trips have been by cheap flights or trains, perfect for students who want to experience a lot without spending too much money.

What I love most about traveling from London is that it feels like Europe is right on your doorstep. It’s easy to hop on a train to Paris and be there in a few hours, or hop on a plane and spend a long weekend in a new city. I’ve also discovered how exciting it is to go on day trips by train to places like Oxford, Cambridge or Brighton, little getaways that provide a break from city life.

Among my favorites so far are without a doubt the Highlands in Scotland, where I felt like I was in another world, and Nice in France, where I experienced amazing beaches and great food. Being able to travel so easily has made me feel like I’m getting the most out of my time in London, and I learn an incredible amount every time I visit a new place.
 

Challenges and adjustment

Moving to a new country alone is scary, there’s no way around it. Before I left, I felt a mixture of excitement and fear, and the first few weeks in London were undoubtedly challenging. I had just left everything and everyone I knew at home, and was starting over in a huge city where I knew no one. It felt both lonely and overwhelming at times.

One of the biggest challenges was finding a place to live. The housing market in London is hectic and expensive, and it can be difficult to know what to look for, which areas are safe, and what is actually a good deal. After my first experience living far from school with a somewhat special tenant, I learned the importance of taking the time to find the right place and not being afraid to ask other students or the school for tips.

The language was also a bit of a challenge at first. Although Norwegian school provides a good foundation in English, it took time to get used to thinking and speaking English all day, and especially to understand all the dialects and accents you encounter in an international city like London. But after a few weeks I started to think more automatically in English, and now it’s completely natural.

Another thing I had to get used to was the pace of the city. London is hectic, and it can feel like everything is going at a furious pace, people are rushing to get on the tube, the street scene is full of life, and there’s always something going on. I had to learn to find my own breathing spaces, like going for a walk in a park or taking a quiet coffee break, so as not to get completely exhausted by the chaos of the city.

As for the culture, I was surprised by how diverse London is. Because the city is so international, you don’t really have to adapt to one specific “British” culture, it’s more of a myriad of cultures, and as long as you show respect and normal manners, you feel welcome regardless of your background.

The student life also required some adjustment. I had to find new ways to study, learn to plan projects that lasted several weeks, and collaborate closely with students from completely different cultures and with different working methods. But through these challenges, I have learned an incredible amount, both about myself and about how I work best.

Ultimately, the challenges have made me stronger and more independent. What I feared most before I left, feeling alone and insecure, turned out to be manageable obstacles that have given me valuable experience and self-confidence.
 

Advice for future students

One of the most important things I would say to other Norwegians considering studying in the UK is that it is completely normal to feel insecure at first. The first few weeks can be tough, everything is new, and it can feel a little lonely. But remember that almost all other international students are in the same situation as you, and most are just as open to making new friends. So don’t be afraid to take the initiative, whether it’s asking a classmate out for a coffee or joining an event.

When it comes to housing, I would recommend starting your search early, and not taking the first and best option even if it is tempting when you are stressed. Ask the school if they have reliable recommendations or lists of student housing. If you choose to rent privately, be careful to check the contract and see the apartment before you sign, there is a lot of trickery in the London rental market.

Financially, it is wise to have a buffer account, so that you have a little to fall back on if something unforeseen happens. London can be expensive, and it takes some time to figure out how to best balance your budget and student life. Remember that as a student you can often get discounts on everything from public transport to museums, cinema and food, take advantage of it!

My best tip for getting the most out of your stay is to say yes to things even if it feels a little out of your comfort zone. Join a student party, an excursion or a meeting in a student union, even if you don't know anyone there. You never know who you will meet or what opportunities will open up. Don't let the fear of making mistakes stop you, most others are busy with their own business and don't remember small mistakes that you think are embarrassing.

Also think long-term: ask yourself what you want to be left with after your studies. Is it just an education, or also memories, networks and experiences that shape you? Use the time to build relationships, be curious, and contact people in the industry you want to enter, it may give you job opportunities that you would never have had at home.

Finally: follow your gut feeling. It's easy to be scared by thoughts like "what if it doesn't work?", but distinguishing between healthy fear and real gut feeling can help you make good decisions. If you feel that you really want this, then take the chance, it's often the things we don't do that we regret the most.
 

Summary and reflection

Studying in the UK has been one of the most challenging, educational and rewarding experiences of my life. I remember how overwhelming it felt to stand at the airport in Bergen with a one-way ticket to London, not knowing what awaited me. Now, when I look back, I am incredibly proud of how far I have come, not only professionally, but also personally.

My stay in London has forced me to become more independent and responsible. I have had to make important decisions on my own, deal with both small and large problems, and find solutions when things have not gone as planned. All of this has given me self-confidence and belief in my own abilities, and I feel much better equipped to face new challenges in the future.

Academically, my studies have given me a practical understanding of finance and marketing, and taught me how what I learn in the classroom is actually applied in real life. I have had the opportunity to work with real companies, learn from talented lecturers and collaborate with people from all over the world. This has not only strengthened my knowledge, but also taught me the importance of understanding and respecting different perspectives.

On a more personal level, I have gained memories and friendships that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I have met people from countries I have never been to, and some of them have become close friends that I cannot imagine life without. My best friend is from Brazil, we probably would have never met if I had not dared to go, and for that I am eternally grateful.

What I take away from this experience is the certainty that I can do much more than I thought. I have learned that the comfort zone is a nice place, but that it is outside of it that you really grow. I have also learned the value of saying yes to opportunities, trusting yourself and not letting the fear of failure stop me. These are experiences that I know will shape both my life and my career for years to come.

For me, this has not only been a study abroad experience, but a journey that has shaped who I am and who I want to be. I recommend anyone considering studying abroad to take the chance, because it can change your life in ways you can't even imagine.

- Sara
 

I took an online degree from Oslo at the Global Institute of Sport which is based all around the world. This organisation is unconventional but that has prepared me so much more for working than a normal master’s degree could.
 

Close connection to the staff

The Global Institute of Sport offers great support from all the staff but particularly the module leaders. For each assignment, lecture or question the module leaders are always easy to contact and will happily help you achieve and learn the most out of the content and each task. The rest of the staff are also easy to reach where I feel like I managed to speak to everyone from student reps to the CEO and get a true connection to the organisation and where they got a reference to who I am as an individual as well. This constant support helped me achieve more in terms of results but also my understanding of the content was greater than I experienced during my undergraduate degree.
 

Global sport focus

The organisation has sport and the global market at heart for its operations. I have had the chance to experience sport from different viewpoints and cultures through the content of my modules but also through travelling the world to global partners of GIS.
 

Online and on-site events

GIS hosts numerous events both in-person and online to connect us students closer to the people in the industry. I have attended two global summits where I have had the chance to watch world-class sports as well as connect with industry professionals at the top of the sport industry. I was able to do this while seeing completely new places and experience completely new cultures. These events are also some of the opportunities to connect with fellow students and network with people in the sports industry.
 

Advantages of online study

The online study method meant that I was able to continue working alongside my studies which helped for my personal, professional and financial growth. The organisation gives great transparency in deadlines which also makes it easy to work at a fluid pace. The organisation also allows for studying at the campuses in which they partner with or host, so it is possible to move and study in the library with the online courses. There are also some in-person degrees at GIS but the one I took was fully online.
 

Transitioning into a job

Through the module content, networking events and the great support from the staff it has prepared me greatly for what to do after I finish my degree. They outline the opportunities that are available as well as a great career advisor who gives help to turn an application into a job offer.

While the institution is far from what is common in Norway it is exactly this that has given me more opportunity to grow hard and especially soft skills.

- Vilde
 

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