Hands-on learning and industry exposure
Deciding to study in the UK was one of the most pivotal choices of my life. The opportunity to learn from high-quality institutions, immerse myself in new cultures, and gain a sense of independence was too valuable to pass up. The UK, with its rich academic heritage, has been a dream destination for many, and I wanted to experience that first-hand.
Why I Chose Middlesex University and University Life
I chose Middlesex University for its outstanding program content and the Professional Experience module, which promised hands-on learning and industry exposure. The campus is not only beautiful, with its relaxing green spaces, but it also offers numerous facilities. Students here enjoy discounts and access to resources that make university life both enjoyable and enriching. The welcoming environment made my experience truly rewarding.
Living in a university residence was a great decision. It allowed me to meet new friends from all over the world, and I always felt safe and supported. The university organized plenty of events throughout the year, creating a sense of community and belonging. These experiences helped me to adjust to life in the UK and making lifelong friendships.
I am studying Sustainability, a field I am deeply passionate about. This course was perfect for me because it connects industry practices with environmental protection. It’s inspiring to learn how we can innovate and implement sustainable practices that make a difference. The curriculum is comprehensive, and the professors are experts in their fields, making the learning experience both challenging and fulfilling.
English is not my first language, so the transition to studying in English was initially challenging. However, the university provided ample support to help me understand the UK education system and what was expected of me. From language assistance to academic guidance, I felt I had enough tools to succeed in my studies.
The Vibrant City of London
London is a city like no other. It's vast, diverse, and full of life. There's a place for everyone here, whether you're seeking out new experiences or looking for a piece of home. Whenever I miss my home country, I visit Latin places in the city, where I can reconnect with my culture. These places offer a sense of comfort and familiarity among the bustling city life.
Student life in London is vastly different from my home country, Mexico. The freedom here is exhilarating, and London is a melting pot of cultures from around the globe. The city is vibrant and full of opportunities, whether it's attending cultural festivals or exploring various cuisines. Moreover, finding part-time jobs is relatively easy, which helps students manage their finances while gaining work experience.
The Role of Across the Pond in My Journey
Applying through Across the Pond was one of the best decisions I made. They helped me organize all the paperwork, from applying to the university to managing my visa process. Everything went smoothly, allowing me to focus on preparing for my new life in the UK. Their guidance and support were invaluable in making this journey possible.
- Amira
I highly recommend the UK
Hello! My name is Regina. I studied an MSc in Biotechnology (Microbial Pathway) at the University of Nottingham, and I wanted to share my incredible experience studying at a UK university!
Why did I choose the UK?
For me, it was a mix of choice and a bit of luck. I always knew I wanted to study abroad, primarily because sustainable biotech is an emerging field in Mexico, and I knew the UK is a leading country in this area. However, winning the British Council Women in STEM Scholarship gave me the opportunity to study at the University of Nottingham with everything covered (tuition, stipend, travel, etc.). These two factors combined are why I chose the UK.
How did Across the Pond help me?
Across the Pond was the best support I could have received. They not only answered all my questions but also helped me prepare for my applications by providing excellent advice.
Nottingham: a great city and an even better university!
I can't express enough how much I loved the University of Nottingham. The professors were incredibly motivating, and I learned so much. Both the professors and my master's director were understanding and inspiring role models. Nottingham Uni has an amazing campus (actually three across the city), and I enjoyed all of it—from the labs to the library, coffee shops, and study spaces. It was definitely challenging since the UK system is more focused on self-study and heavily project-based. However, I developed many research skills, got exposure to industry and even earned the highest grade in the programme. But most importantly, I discovered the research area I want to pursue in my career. Spoiler alert: I’m heading back to Nottingham to continue this research in a PhD!
More things about the university: It’s a very sporty university with massive gyms and sports fields, and it offers many interesting clubs and societies (I was part of the Women in STEM, Hispanic, and Mexican societies). It’s also very international, with both students and professors from all over the world.
About the city: Nottingham is a great mid-sized city with everything you could imagine, but most of all, amazing people! I made such good friends since Nottingham is quite an international hub (with two big universities). I love that it’s centrally located in the UK, so you can reach all major English cities in 1.5-2 hours. I didn’t struggle at all to fit in; it’s a very welcoming and youthful city, and many of my international friends agree. Switching from Spanish to English was no trouble. I describe Nottingham as a great place to live—not a typical touristy spot, so the city centre is full of enjoyable places. It also has a great transportation system, so it’s easy to get around. Coming from Mexico City, it was amazing!
About accommodation
I lived in both student and private accommodations. The great thing about Nottingham is the variety of housing options that cater to different preferences and budgets. It depends entirely on your preferences, but I’ll share what I found best in both cases. In student accommodation, you generally have your own room and share common spaces. It’s a great way to meet new people and attend more events. For example, I met my best friends (one from India and another from England) and attended various cultural events organised by the accommodation. In private accommodation, you have your own space, it’s cheaper, and more flexible; but it can be a bit lonelier. If it’s your first year abroad, I would definitely recommend student accommodation.
What I would have liked to know before..
Deadlines! I was very tight with the scholarship deadline, so if you’re interested in applying for scholarships, make sure to check the dates.
You can work part-time while you study. Check if it’s possible with your university/course, but I was able to work part-time as a university ambassador, which helped me a lot financially and allowed me to meet new people.
My conclusion
Studying at the University of Nottingham has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The combination of academic excellence, cultural exposure, and personal growth has not only enriched my knowledge but also shaped the direction of my career in biotechnology. If you’re considering studying abroad, I highly recommend the UK, and especially Nottingham. And if you do, using Across the Pond is something I highly recommend as well!
- Regina
A globally renowned institution
For several years, I've been keenly interested in continuing my professional development, expanding my knowledge base, and gaining a clearer understanding of the contemporary world and the positive impact I can make. To achieve these goals, I decided to return to academia and pursue a master's degree in Social Development at the University of Sussex, a globally renowned institution for its excellence in the field of development.
University of Sussex
The knowledge I gained during my MA has been truly enriching. I had the privilege of learning from leading academics and researchers actively working in the field of development, which provided me with a deeper and more up-to-date perspective on global challenges. Moreover, the opportunity to interact with fellow students from diverse backgrounds has not only fostered valuable friendships but also broadened my learning horizons significantly.
Enjoying Brighton & Hove
Brighton & Hove, the towns near the university where I resided, proved to be a vibrant and welcoming place. From daily beach walks and exploring countless local cafes to the convenience of traveling to nearby cities like London and the sense of safety that permeated the community, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the United Kingdom.
- Regina
This international experience has broadened my perspective
Coming to study in the United Kingdom was a long-standing aspiration for me. I have always been attracted to the country's academic tradition and had an interest in its culture since childhood. In the field of environmental economics, the UK has been at the forefront of global research and reputation. Therefore, both for my professional and personal interests, coming to this country seemed ideal for me.
I chose to study at the University of York because of its reputation in environmental issues and its environmental economics program, which aligned perfectly with what I was looking for. The campus is surrounded by nature, with rabbits, foxes, ducks, swans, and various birds, which makes the stress of exams and deadlines much more manageable.
My advisors from Across the Pond provided me with guidance on university options that matched what I was looking for. They also offered information on scholarships and put me in touch with people at the universities, which allowed me to make the best possible decision. Their support didn’t stop once I was accepted; they also assisted me with legal aspects, preparation, and various types of advice, which made my transition to the UK much smoother and more secure.
I chose my master’s degree because I believe that the urgency of environmental issues is the most critical problem facing the planet. The University of York not only has a prestigious environmental economics program, but its professors have been fundamental in my education. They not only provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to tackle these challenges, but also offered constant support for my specific questions and interests. Having studied economics in Mexico, I was able to deepen my theoretical knowledge and apply it to the environmental field, in addition to acquiring new insights in areas such as climate change science and environmental protection.
When I first arrived in York, the city’s architectural beauty and the warmth of its people made me feel welcome from the start. The research I had done on the city fell short, because York is not only beautiful but also vibrant and full of life. Despite not being as large as other UK cities, the cultural offerings are impressive: museums, galleries, festivals, and, of course, its pubs. It is said that there are more than 365, one for each day of the year. Additionally, due to its location, traveling to cities like Manchester, Liverpool, or London takes less than 2 hours.
There were difficult moments, especially during exams. However, the University of York offers a wide range of support resources, both academic and emotional. I attended voluntary workshops on research, writing, and statistics, which were fundamental to my academic success. Additionally, the campus library, adapted to different study styles, became one of my favourite places to focus and learn.
The diversity and daily interactions allowed me to learn not only about my master’s program and British culture, but also about cultures from other countries. This international experience has broadened my perspective and made me more aware of global issues and the different ways to address them. Moreover, I have made friendships and met people I want to keep in my life forever.
To future students, I would recommend making the most of everything the University has to offer, from academic resources to extracurricular activities. There are societies of all kinds where you can find people with similar interests. The university system gives students a lot of independence to study and research on their own, so managing your time well while taking advantage of the opportunities in York is vital.
Studying in York has provided me with growth not only professionally but also personally. This experience has been one of the most enriching in my life, and I hope to apply everything I have learned to contribute to more sustainable development in my country.
- Eduardo
I feel more confident than ever about my future
When I decided to study in the UK, I was looking for more than just an academic degree—I was searching for clarity on my professional path. Coming from Mexico, I knew I wanted to challenge myself by immersing myself in a new culture and educational system, and the UK’s reputation for high academic standards and diverse opportunities made it the ideal destination.
I chose to study at University of Hertfordshire because of its strong connections with industry and the career support it offers to students. I’m currently studying my MA in Digital Media Arts, a program that has not only deepened my knowledge in my field but has also exposed me to various professional opportunities I hadn’t previously considered. The curriculum is designed to be both theoretical and practical, which has been crucial in helping me identify where my true passions lie.
One of the biggest differences I’ve noticed between student life here and back in Mexico is the level of independence. In the UK, students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning, which was a bit challenging at first, but it has helped me grow significantly. Unlike the more structured and guided education I was used to in Mexico, here I’ve had the freedom to explore different areas of my field and identify where my strengths and interests truly lie. This has been empowering, as it has allowed me to tailor my studies and extracurricular activities to align with my career aspirations. Additionally, the multicultural environment at University of Hertfordshire has broadened my perspective on the global job market. Collaborating with students from different countries has enhanced my ability to work in diverse teams, a skill that is highly valued by employers worldwide.
My accommodation experience has also played a crucial role in my personal growth. I’ve been renting a room in a shared house, which has been both a challenging and rewarding situation. Living with people from different backgrounds has pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me to strengthen my social skills and become more independent. It’s not always easy, but the experience has taught me valuable lessons about communication, compromise, and living harmoniously with others. These skills have been essential not only in my personal life but also in preparing me for the collaborative nature of the professional world.
Moreover, the city where I’m studying has been an excellent place to explore my professional interests because of its proximity to London, an area well known for its creative industry and culture. I’ve been able to connect with professionals and gain insights into different career paths. The connections I’ve made here have been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory, and I feel more confident than ever about my future.
Outside of my academic and professional pursuits, I’ve fully embraced the opportunity to immerse myself in the UK’s vibrant culture. I’ve attended numerous cultural events, including music shows, art exhibitions, and local festivals, which have given me a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of British culture. Trying new foods has also been a highlight—whether it’s indulging in traditional British dishes or exploring the array of international cuisines available here. These experiences have not only enriched my personal life but have also broadened my understanding of the world, making my time in the UK truly unforgettable.
Lastly, I cannot recommend Across the Pond highly enough. Their service was truly invaluable in making my dream of studying in the UK a reality. From the moment I expressed interest, they were there to guide me every step of the way, making what could have been a daunting process feel seamless and straightforward. Their personalised advice helped me make informed decisions, from selecting the perfect course and university to navigating the complexities of the visa and funding processes. What stood out the most was their commitment to my success—they were always just an email away, eager to assist with even the smallest questions. Thanks to their expertise and support, I felt confident and well-prepared throughout the entire journey. Across the Pond made what seemed like an overwhelming task not only manageable but also enjoyable, and I’m incredibly grateful for their help in making my educational aspirations come true.
Overall, my experience studying in the UK has been transformative. It has broadened my horizons, introduced me to lifelong friends, and allowed me to grow both academically and personally. If you’re considering studying abroad, I can’t recommend the UK highly enough!
- Vanessa
