I wanted to study in the best University of the UK
My name is Isela, a postgraduate student of MSc Advanced Sustainable Design at the University of Edinburgh. Today I want to share my experience about the beautiful journey of studying in the UK.
First of all, studying abroad became one of my biggest goals since I had the opportunity to meet foreign students during high school, I realized that the quality of education in other countries especially in the UK is amazing, and the experience of knowing different cultures even more, so from that moment the idea of experiencing this first hand, living in another country, meeting people from different parts of the world got me so excited that I set it in my goals.
My goal was to study in the UK, but not only in there, what I wanted is to study in the best University of the UK. I always knew I wanted to focus my studies into sustainability, therefore the next step was to find the best programme to do it, I remember I listed all Universities of the UK according to QS ranking, then I wrote the programmes to find out which one has the best to suit to my objectives. Since that moment the University of Edinburgh became my gold dream.
Despite diverse circumstances that impacted my life, this aim always remained in my mind, but I was not sure where to start. Fortunately, I found an advertise online about Across the Pond, they truly helped me to leave my fears behind and chasing my dreams, clearing my thoughts by showing me every step I needed to achieve this objective. They advised me on the options available to cover the expenses, from scholarships to student loans, of which I was not aware, and they were always willing to answer any questions that arose in the process.
I applied to many universities until I finally got an acceptance letter from the university of my dreams. From that moment on my life changed and I am sure that it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made, as a year after living in Edinburgh I am even more convinced that I could not have chosen a better university or a better country to study my postgraduate degree. The United Kingdom is amazing, but Scotland and the city of Edinburgh have so much charm that I fell in love with them from the first moment I arrived here. From its cobbled streets with a medieval atmosphere and the castle in the middle of the city, to Hollyrood Park, where Arthurs Seat mountain is located, it makes you feel like you are in the Highlands themselves in the middle of the city.
The passion for teaching and the preparation of the teachers, the quality of the programs and without forgetting the work spaces with cutting-edge technology, the physical and digital libraries, computers and laptops available to all students at any time, as well as the natural environment, make this a very pleasant experience. Being a non-native English speaking student, I was very nervous and worried at the beginning, but both the patience of the teachers as well as the help of my classmates were key to helping me develop my language skills in a better way.
In addition to studying, I was also part of some university societies, such as the rifle and swimming clubs. From the first time I visited the gym facilities, I was impressed by the high-quality equipment and the well-suited spaces for engaging in a wide range of activities.
Student life in the city of Edinburgh is very fun and cheerful, the amount of activities on and off campus is immense, as well as the benefits that we as students have, such as discounts in most shops for food, clothing, events, transportation and even pharmacy and leisure. Student housing is out of this world, it has much more than just basic facilities but also spaces that allow you to have a healthy coexistence that encourages cultural exchange even more, such as play and meeting areas, gyms, cafeterias, laundry services and spaces with musical instruments.
Lastly, I had the great opportunity to meet and connect with amazing people from various parts of the world, such as India, Taiwan, China, Germany, Canada, Turkey, the USA, and South America. Getting to know their cultures, traditions, and perspectives on life has broadened my worldview. The personal and professional growth I have experienced over the past year has been unparalleled, thanks to this wonderful interaction.
I conclude this text by inviting students to take this big step, which they will undoubtedly never regret, and if they feel afraid or do not know what to do, do not hesitate to approach experts like Across the Pond, who will undoubtedly make this experience extremely light and pleasant.
- Isela
Inspired me to return for my PhD
Choosing where to study is a significant decision that shapes your academic journey and personal growth. Leeds, a vibrant and dynamic city in the heart of the United Kingdom, stands out as a popular destination for students from around the world. It offers academic excellence, a lively campus life, and excellent career opportunities. Here’s why I chose to pursue my master’s degree and current PhD at the University of Leeds and why it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Academic excellence
The University of Leeds is ranked among the top universities in the UK and globally, known for its research-driven approach and high-quality teaching. It offers a challenging academic environment that encourages learning and creativity.
Before coming to Leeds, I had gained work experience in the food industry and wanted to further develop my skills in Food Science. The School of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Leeds is globally recognized for its research quality, making it the perfect place to pursue my master’s degree. My time here was so fulfilling that it inspired me to return for my PhD.
Whether you're interested in engineering, business, arts, or sciences, Leeds is the ideal place to achieve your goals and make lasting memories.
A dynamic campus life
Student life at the University of Leeds is vibrant and exciting. With over 300 clubs and societies, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re passionate about sports, arts or cooking. Coming from Mexico and not knowing anyone in Leeds was a bit scary at first but joining the Mexican Society at the university quickly connected me with a supportive community. I also joined the hiking society because I wanted to explore the Yorkshire Dales, and here I met people from all over the world. These experiences helped me to transition smoothly from Spanish to English, making me feel more confident when speaking a second language.
Cultural and social life
Leeds is a thriving city known for its cultural diversity and lively atmosphere. As a student at the University of Leeds, you’ll have access to a wide range of cultural experiences, including galleries, music venues, and festivals.
Leeds is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, making it easy to feel at home. Is also one of the more affordable major cities in the UK, offering a relatively low cost of living. This affordability extends to accommodation, food, and transportation, making it an attractive option for students.
Things to know before moving to the UK
Before moving to the UK, there are some things international students should consider. Understanding the UK’s academic system, as it may differ from your home country in terms of teaching styles and grading. Make sure you have all the necessary documentation for your student visa and apply well in advance. Whether you choose on-campus housing or private rentals, it's important to budget for living expenses, including food and transportation. And familiarize yourself with the local climate. Finally, take advantage of the support services offered by the university, such as international student organizations, which can help you settle in and make the most of your time in the UK.
A Special Thanks
Studying at the University of Leeds has been a dream come true, and I want to thank Across the Pond and my advisor for making this journey possible. Their expert guidance and support were essential for me during the university application/student visa process. I highly recommend them if you are interested in studying in the UK and don’t know where to start.
- Gloria
DANCING ACROSS BORDERS
Since my BA I had the desire to study abroad. As a contemporary dancer, I wanted to explore different teaching approaches, learn new movement languages, engage with various teachers and choreographers, and observe how people from a country different than mine appreciate dance and the arts. However, due to economic limitations at that time, I could not achieve this goal.
FINDING THE RIGHT PROGRAM
After a few years, I began researching postgraduate programs in Europe focused on performance (because in my country this does not exist). My search narrowed down to two countries: Germany and the United Kingdom, considering the prestige of their artistic institutions and the professional growth opportunities available upon program completion.
One day, I came across a reel on Instagram showcasing a company named Mapdance, and as I liked what I saw, I wanted to know more about it. To my surprise, upon further investigation, I discovered that it was a master's program in the United Kingdom, specifically at the University of Chichester. And so, my adventure began.
I found the university's website and delved into researching all the courses they offered. In the end, I reaffirmed that Mapdance was indeed what I was seeking. It aligned perfectly with my professional development goals. The program focused on performance, offering the chance to work with four nationally and internationally recognized choreographers. I would gain a different perspective on contemporary dance and have the opportunity to go on tour for different cities in the country, showcasing the choreographies we created during the year and conducting workshops at different institutions.
Another advantage I identified was the ability to take various technical classes with instructors specialized in different areas, as well as interacting with people from various parts of the world. And learn firsthand how people manage a dance company with the same benefits as other types of jobs in different fields.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
I must admit that when I started reading the requirements for admission, I panicked and did not know where to begin for a successful application. That is why I sought help from Across the Pond, making the process easier for me. Before assisting with my application, they advised me on other potential universities, scholarships, or forms of financing. I also participated in webinars that connected me with others in the arts sector interested in studying in the UK or those who had already completed their studies and were willing to share their experiences.
Their assistance was crucial in my decision-making process and later in submitting my application. I only had to focus on sending them documentation or videos before the deadlines set by the university, while they managed everything for me. If that wasn't enough, they also guided me through the visa application process, accompanying me at each step and clarifying all my doubts well in advance to ensure I arrived on time for the start of my course.
In March, I received my acceptance letter from the university, and upon accepting the offer, they provided me with all kinds of information to plan my arrival and ensure I met all bureaucratic requirements. This was also of great help to me, making the process of starting my life as an international student more straightforward, taking into account economic, social, and even cultural factors.
So, after all the corresponding procedures, I arrived in the UK last September, just a day before the welcome event organized for all international students. Now, I can't believe I have already finished the course.
THE TRUE REWARDS OF THIS EXPERIENCE
I must say that the most valuable thing for me was being able to meet people from other countries, make friendships I never would have imagined, share a bit of my culture, and learn from them. I formed bonds that will definitely last a lifetime, and without a doubt, they helped me grow as a human being and as an artist.
Studying abroad is an experience everyone should have. It’s incredible to learn under a different system, compare worldviews, and even go about your daily routine in a different language. Most importantly, knowing that in the future, you'll be able to share all that knowledge with people from your own country is invaluable. Without a doubt, this year has been one of the most challenging of my life, but also one that I will remember forever.
If you’ve also been thinking for a long time about studying abroad, take the risk now! I assure you it will be worth it.
- Damara
Why studying in the UK?
I had to answer this question several times while giving campus tours to families from different countries when I worked as an international student ambassador at the university. The answer went something like this: I had always wanted to study abroad, and while I was doing my undergraduate studies, I didn't have the opportunity. So, I set myself the goal of doing a postgraduate study abroad. I started looking for options in different countries, however, the 3 finalist universities were institutions in the UK. This was because the study programmes in Sustainable Architecture in the country, which was what I was looking to apply for, appealed to me. Plus, the fact that the masters in the UK lasted for 1 year, and that's how this journey started...
Why the University of Nottingham?
The University of Nottingham was not one of my original 3 finalists, however, my Across the Pond advisor suggested it to me because of an opportunity that was available at the time for my area of study. I decided to take the chance and I applied to the university. When the long-awaited acceptance letter finally arrived, what started as a dream, started to materialise....
It's not just about applying to the university, there are many other steps to consider...
If you're planning to study abroad, try to check in advance what's required. There are usually many time-consuming documents and procedures that often don't depend on you, but you have to meet the deadlines: language certificates, CVs, personal statements, scholarships and grants applications, immigration procedures, accommodation, among many other things. It may seem overwhelming at first, but little by little and with the help of your Across the Pond advisor, things get sorted out.
University Life
The international student experience in the UK is wonderful. There are a lot of students from all over the world, and universities usually have years of experience with this. So, they have established procedures and guidelines that are very useful before and when you join the university. Also, the staff and people in general are usually very helpful and friendly.
University life is very dynamic, although I think the experience can vary depending on whether you are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate level. Most master's degrees, being usually one year long, naturally have a stricter study programme. So, sometimes free time for postgraduate students can be more limited than for undergraduates. So, this is a great opportunity to put your time management skills into practice! You can make studying a priority, while you also travel, participate in societies, and socialise and meet people. And of course, you make sure you leave enough time for your physical and mental wellbeing.
The University of Nottingham has a range of services, workshops and activities. It provides advice on financial matters, academic skills, use of digital tools, research techniques, critical writing, careers, among many others. At first, it can be difficult and overwhelming trying to digest so much information but try to gradually get to know everything your university has to offer. It can be very useful to know the services you have, with enough time to use them. Besides from the fact that you have already paid for them in your tuition fees, try to make the most out of them!
Life in Nottingham
Life in Nottingham was very interesting. It is a medium-sized city in England, with different events throughout the year. It has several tourist attractions and places for weekend activities with friends, such as bowling, mini-golf, or skating. I lived in an accommodation near the university campus, and I found life in this part of the city quiet and peaceful. I found it convenient to have the university 2 minutes-away walk, and Wollaton Park 15 minutes away, one of my favourite spots from the city. To get to the centre I usually took public transport, either bus or tram. It took me about 20 minutes to get there.
The accommodation I chose was off-campus and had different types of rooms available. I highly encourage to check the accommodation websites of the universities, as they usually have complete information about the types of rooms available, locations, among others. So, you can make the decision that suits you best.
Cultural shocks and language transition
It is inevitable to have culture shocks, no matter from which part of the world you come from. In my case, me the fact that I could talk to people from similar backgrounds really helped me. As they might be having culture shocks similar to mine, so that I could feel identified with other people who felt similarly.
In terms of language, I was fortunate enough to learn English from an early age. However, I was never required to use it in an advanced academic environment or in the technical aspect of my field. Trying to keep up in class while process new knowledge and at the same time putting extra effort into understanding everything in another language, was a challenge. It's normal to struggle a bit at first, and it's okay if you need to spend extra time after class going over your notes. With time, you will get used to the language and everything will become easier. Also, universities usually have courses or material available to reinforce your language skills, if you find it necessary.
What nobody tells you…
During my experience as an international student in the UK I have experienced all kinds of emotions, from happiness and fulfilment to exhaustion and guilt. The process is different for everyone. Some people found the beginning very challenging, for some others it was the final part... There are days when emotions can get very strong, and situations can feel out of hand. Try to have a support network at all times, whether it's your new friends, trained university staff, or friends and family back home. The important thing is that you feel supported and that you can maintain your mental health to get the most out of your studies.
Don't forget to enjoy every moment, be clear about your priorities and try to make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. Time goes by faster than you can imagine, but the memories and learning you take away from this adventure are definitely some of the most valuable you can experience.
- Claudia Marina
The best experience of my life
Hi, my name is Ana and I’m from Mexico. I studied the MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Essex and, honestly it was the best experience of my life.
Not only I was able to learn from great lecturers, but also I was able to discover what research topics I liked the most that, eventually, led me to pursue a PhD in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Essex. Throughout the year I was able to engage with different people and cultures, as well as getting to know another country and their take on life. It broadened my horizons to what I already knew on Psychology and helped me to understand that there is so much more than what I originally had envisioned for myself.
One of the key parts to being able to study in the UK was the assistance I received from an advisor at Across the Pond. With his help, I was able to formally apply to several Universities, choose the one that was the best fit and, most importantly, navigate the funding process for my studies. Through communications, as well as a great number of webinars, Across the Pond gave me all the help that I needed and it helped me to gain a lot more clarity on the process and what to expect when I arrived to the UK, as well as what I could do once I received my degree.
If you are thinking about taking a step forward in your education, do not hesitate to contact Across the Pond, they are definitely the best.
- Ana Lucia
