Studying law in the UK was an attractive option to me for a number of reasons. Now, after completing 1 year of my studies I can better discuss the advantages of choosing to study abroad. Firstly, the UK has many world-renowned universities, and this coincides with the level of education they wish to deliver. Being one of the oldest legal systems which has influenced many others around the world only increases the value of such an education from the UK. Secondly, a degree from the UK offers dual qualifications for both the UK Bar and Canadian Bar, giving you additional flexibility in your career options and the ability to practice law in both countries. Thirdly, the cultural experience of studying abroad is an opportunity to experience a new culture, make friends from around the world, and gain valuable life experiences that can shape your personal and professional growth.
I chose the University of Sussex for its location and reputation. Sussex is located just north of Brighton, a city located about an hour's train ride from London and only a half hour from Gatwick International Airport. Being in a fully developed city was also important to me as all potentially necessary services such as dry cleaners, grocery stores, general stores and public transportation will be easily accessible. This is indeed the case with Brighton, with a 24-hour bus system and active train system.
The city of Brighton offers a strong quality of life with many restaurants, grocers etc. The living accommodations on campus can vary. Some of the student residences are very old (specifically Lewes Court). I would recommend when requesting on-campus accommodations to ensure you have an ensuite bathroom. This would include the East Slope and Swanborough Residences. I lived in Swanborough, and while the rooms were not exceptionally clean on arrival, it was manageable and provided a reasonable quality of life.
Studying law in the UK exposes you to an international legal system and diverse perspectives. This can be particularly advantageous in today's interconnected world where cross-border legal issues are increasingly common. In addition, being close to Europe provides one with unique travel opportunities that may not be available to those studying in North America. A new perspective can change everything when moving abroad to study, I found this change in outlook essential to my academic success.
Brighton is a fun city due to its vibrant and diverse cultural scene, lively nightlife, and iconic beachfront attractions, including the famous Brighton Pier. It offers a unique blend of trendy cafes, boutique shops, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking entertainment and excitement.
Across the Pond is an exceptional service available to Canadians who wish to study in the UK at no expense. They are extremely helpful and understanding of each student's needs (special thank you to my advisor for her fantastic help on my applications). They assist with your application at every step and offer experienced advice. They are not pushy and understand that applicants wish to work on their own timeline. I cannot recommend Across the Pond enough to those considering studying abroad.
- Ron
Hi! My name is Alexis, a student from Canada almost done completing my master’s degree in Public Health in Chester, England. As a mature student, it was a big deal for me to quit my job back in Canada, get rid of my apartment and car, and fit everything I would need for 12 months into 2 suitcases. Also, as a mature student, packing my bags and choosing to study abroad in England with the help of Across the Pond was one of the best choices I have made yet.
I am a very studious and academic person, but also have a huge love for the outdoors and exploring. Studying in England has allowed me to get the best of both. Chester is an ancient Roman walled city on the North Welsh border, with transport links getting me to the Welsh mountains in under 2 hours. In my spare time, myself and my new friends travel into the mountains regularly for some much needed stress relief from our studies.
Studying in England at a Post Graduate level was a big adjustment to me compared to the North American University school system. There is much less time in the classroom and lectures compared to the University system I am used to, and the grading system is completely different. The first time I got an assignment grade back and received a 65% I was very disappointed, but after some help from my peers I realized a 65% in the English school system is not such a bad thing. I wish I knew about this difference beforehand, so this is my advice to you; make sure you understand the grading system fully before getting upset or excited about how you have done on your first assignment abroad!
All in all, as I reflect on my time here in Chester, I couldn’t be more pleased with my choice to come to England, and I couldn’t have made it here without the help of Across the Pond. My Student Advisor helped me decide what universities I might be interested in based on my program of study and personal interests, helped me at all stages of the application process (including writing an application essay!), and even shared scholarship offers with me. Across the Pond is an amazing organisation, who helped turn the big deal of packing my bags and moving abroad into something achievable and memorable for the rest of my life.
- Alexis
After graduating with my Bachelor, I knew I wanted to continue my education. But the amount of time and money that most Master's degrees take in the US was not something I wanted. Master programs in Europe intrigued me much more, and mixed with my desire to return to London, I felt it was an easy choice to make. Am currently getting my MA in Media and Communication at Kingston University. My program is a year-long, and it has flown by fast.
I love living in Kingston; it's about a 30/35 minute train ride into Waterloo Station in the center of London. But in Kingston, it has a bit of city life. The community here in Kingston has a mix of everything for a college kid, great cafes, good food, Wetherspoons (a pub that's cheap and open late), and Pryzm (a club that's aimed towards students). If you like being up early, going for a walk, shopping a bit, reading a book at a park, or going out at night with friends dancing; Kingston is perfect for both. As someone who didn't want to be overwhelmed by city life and have a sense of community but yet close to London center Kingston was and is perfect.
Accommodation here is better than I find it in the US. However, I live with seven people. I have my own room area, a kitchen space, two showers, and two toilets. I also live with other students getting their masters, and most of us are international students, so we're all around the same age and have similar behaviors. We all hang out a bit, too, whether going to the pub, getting food, or hanging out in the kitchen. Everyone is super friendly and easy to talk to.
In terms of school and how it's different to the US, it is very different; I have no busy work or weekly assignments. In all my classes, I have one to two papers, and that's it. Some people may need help as you can lose track of time with assignments and let them pile up. In my first term, nothing was due until the end of the term, during which I had five papers due in one month. I prefer this to the US way; I can put more thought and energy into one pre-class essay versus having weekly work, an exam, and an essay (or two). As a MA student, I feel relaxed, I don't feel stressed out or burned out, and I'm writing my dissertation.
I am so happy I came to London for my Masters; I love the city and the programs! I wouldn't change a thing if I got a re-do, and Across the Pond helped make this journey happen with ease. If I could give a tip or two, it would be this; when picking your University, make a list of three or four things you need in the area, then google search the area, what kind of restaurants/cafe they have, do they have live music, parks, theater. My other advice is to research the tutors at the University, particularly those in your program. See what they are researching; is it similar to what you are interested in.
- Elizabeth
I have had a dream of living abroad for most of my life and three years ago, decided to take the plunge to apply to graduate school in a foreign country. During my time in the USA, I had lived in all different regions of the country, but eventually I wanted to challenge myself by living in an entirely new place. I am an American artist and knew I wanted to work as an art therapist, applying my love of creativity with a helping profession. After doing research, I realized the UK had many Art Psychotherapy programs and that there was no fee to apply. Furthermore, I found Across the Pond services and linked up with a representative who helped me through the application process. I applied to five graduate schools and chose to study at Roehampton University because it was in an idyllic part of London and had a wide offering of creative play therapy programs. I was drawn to the ideas of the culture, food, art, music, and history in London. London ended up far exceeding my expectations!
I arrived in the UK sight unseen, never having been to Europe, overjoyed and excited to begin my course. My visa had been delayed and I had a flight rescheduled, but staff at Roehampton and Across the Pond helped me through the process. Knowing no one in a new country, I opted to live in the dorms.
My campus was gorgeous. I lived near a chicken coop and visited the ducks and wildlife on the university’s ponds. One time I even saw a swan! I learned all about how swans in England were protected property of the Queen and spent time strolling along small bridges looking at the rivers. Many of the graduate students in my accommodation were also visa holders, so they would make Spanish tortilla or other dishes from their home countries. I learned a lot about the world through food and conversation. It was also convenient that the library was around the corner for late night study sessions.
One thing I really loved about my course at Roehampton was my fellow cohort of students. My British friends taught me all the local slang and took me to a diner to try a proper full English breakfast. My program was filled with interesting people from a variety of backgrounds who brought their unique passion for creativity and caregiving to their studies. We made collaborative art in varied workshops and practiced a group therapy dynamic that lasted for weeks and led to interesting discoveries. I had to adjust to the grading system and realize it was on a very different scale than what I knew of in America. Additionally, a lot of the university work was very self-guided. A big lesson from the course was sitting with uncertainty, especially when the university changed the program requirements for future students. Our tutors were invested in student success and did a great job guiding my class throughout this process. Friday studio days were fun. A small group of students brought snacks and worked on independent projects or the solo painting project we worked on throughout the year. I had the opportunity to work on a placement at a secondary school, counselling teenagers and learning about the intricacies of the British education system. All the relationships I made during this time were invaluable.
There were so many unexpected things about British culture, history, and architecture that I found charming. I enjoyed the fresh food and grocery shopping at the co-ops. Some of my best friends were Irish and had me over to their home for a Sunday roast. I was able to take two train trips to Brighton, the LGBTQ+ capital of the UK. We went to pubs, clubs, and hung out on the rock covered beaches. In my spare time from uni, I traveled to different parts of Europe I had never been, including Germany, Italy, and France. I was impressed by how many UNESCO World Heritage sites I had learned about in primary school and then saw on my travels. I was able to visit the Louvre, Uffizi, and Jewish Museum and take in so much art and world history. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity for a girl from cornfields of the Midwest.
Travel was a large part of my education alongside my studies. I loved attending Pride in Paris and London. I felt very safe in the UK, as gun violence was not an issue. I was impressed by laws being implemented to strive for equality and climate consciousness. Though life grew to be busy as a grad student, I felt very much at ease in Europe. My father was diagnosed with cancer toward the end of my first year of university. After a trip home, I chose to defer for another year. The university assisted me in this process. I will be returning this autumn and I can’t wait; it is a place I have fallen in love with. Across the Pond is helping me make sure I have all the important pieces in order. I am forever thankful for their assistance, as I was an older student returning to graduate school and I have had a remarkable experience. My dream is to finish my degree and practice art therapy in the UK, hopefully building a home in Europe for as long as possible. Ideally, I will be able to work with a variety of populations within the NHS and outside charities to give people the gift of using creativity therapeutically. I feel fortunate to have taken this risk and for all the assistance in my journey of pursuing my goals and education.
- Nicole
I first moved to UK to do a bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management and it turned out to be the best decision of my life. After my undergraduate, I did not feel ready to move back to Norway, so I decided to proceed further with a postgraduate degree in Strategic Communication and Leadership. Mostly to enjoy life here a bit longer but also to develop my knowledge and skills. I believe moving abroad is one of the best things people can do for their own development and growth because you are forced to be independent and you learn a lot about yourself, as well as meeting new cultures and people.
Most people ask me how I ended up in little Huddersfield considering I used to live in Oslo. However, I find the town charming, cheap, and with an amazing student community which I do not think I would experience studying in Oslo. The true reason to why I decided to move to Huddersfield, was based on the recommendations from my Across the Pond advisor. I wanted to study human resources in a smaller and cheaper city but a place that was big enough to have plenty of things to do, and I must say he hit the nail on the head. The best thing about Huddersfield is that everything is within walking distance and people usually go to the same pubs which means that you always meet someone you know out. If you want a more vibrant city life, great shopping and just a new environment, Leeds is only a 20 minute train ride away. From my experience, Huddersfield is an open and welcoming community where it is easy to get to know new people. The university have a plenty of sports and socials options which makes making new friends a lot easier. I have tried cheerleading, pole dancing and climbing. With the last one, we have done several trips together where I have had the opportunity to see more of UK, the highlight was a trip to Wales. With these student societies comes a lot of socializing and new experiences. University of Huddersfield offers a range of different clubs, all from book clubs to rum clubs, to many different types of sports, so I am sure everyone will find something that appeals to them.
I still remember the first day I moved to UK, I was nervous, stressed and excited all at once. I was worried about the language, if I was going to find any friends, and about starting studying at all. First of all, the language was a bit uncomfortable in the beginning, but I got used to it surprisingly quick. No one really cares if you say some grammar mistakes as long as you make yourself understood, and to be honest, most British people are just impressed by the fact that we can speak more than one language. Getting to know people was not an issue either, most people were in the same position as me, moving to a new place without knowing someone. If you have this in mind, as well as being open minded, it will not be a problem. With studying, it takes some time to find the right techniques and a structure that works for you, but I think the university offers high quality support if you need help with anything from writing an essay to finding your way around on campus, or how to use the facilities. I believe this is what makes UK universities great, the support and guidance is outstanding.
Over the years, I have gotten more and more used to the British culture, and I must say my favourite thing about British culture (except Sunday roast) is the pub culture. We do not have anything like it in Norway, and it is something special about going for a pint with your friends. Whether it is to complain about the weather, celebrate someone’s birthday, eating a delicious Sunday roast, or just wining down after a long hike, the pub is the perfect meeting point. Other than that, I do not think there is many big cultural shocks coming from Norway to UK. Although, I did use some time to fully understand their humour as the sarcasm can seem a bit harsh. Additionally, the politeness was a bit different than what I am used to in Norway, but this is rather a positive thing than a negative one.
All in all, I recommend everyone to apply for studies abroad as it is the best decision of my life. I only have positive things to say about the guidance from Across the Pond as well, as they help you with the whole process from doing research in the beginning to the day you enrol at uni.
- Nora
Across the Pond was pivotal in my success in studying abroad. I applied directly through the university then worked with someone directly at Across the Pond to help prepare for my move. They provided a pamphlet with clear checklists and guidelines for a successful visa process.
I have recently been accepted for a PhD program in the UK and I plan to lean on the support of Across the Pond again for this second degree. I would highly recommend Across the Pond for anyone going abroad and not sure where to get started.
- Torie
Hello everyone I am happy to share my experience doing my PhD in the UK.
I decided to do my PhD in the UK because I found a department in the University of Nottingham that really fitted the research topic that I wanted to investigate. The department was highly ranked in the UK ant the University ranked top 100 in the world, it was a no brainer.
I was based in the University Park Campus, this is potentially the most beautiful University campus in the world, is like living in a forest. My office was on top of a hill with a view of the campus and it was definitely a motivation to go to work.
I was fortunate enough to be accommodated on campus as well, everything was at a short walking distance: the office, University buildings, gym, shops, restaurants. To be honest I do not think I will ever feel like living inside a forest again, so this was a positive experience.
My colleagues at the department were all friendly and my supervisors were generally available to answer my questions and doubts. They also supported my research by getting me involved with a company interested in the research topic so I felt that my work was actually reflected in the real world and not many early-stage researchers get that chance.
Both my professional and personal goals were being accomplished only by selecting the right University, department and supervisors.
Even as a PhD I truly felt like a student: the Uni and the city are made for student life (despite the age) so do not feel shy if you are a mature student, there are plenty of options. Compared to Mexico (my home country) student life is more vibrant, there is no need to have a car or to use one, public transportation is very efficient and I had a bike so I moved around the city cycling, the city is relatively flat so I think that is the easiest and cheapest way of moving.
I really liked the way the city was organized and how it was prepared for students. You can find everything you need in Nottingham’s city centre or in Beeston (the town next to the University). But my favourite part of Nottingham, as I mentioned, was the campus and the student life.
Across the pond helped me during all the process: finding a supervisor, application, funding, visa, accommodation. Therefore, most of my decisions were based on my advisor’s comments and experience. I don’t think I would have enjoyed my time as much as I did without Across the Pond. Thank you for everything.
- Alan
Originally from Vancouver, Canada, I chose to pursue studies in the UK to experience life in a different part of the world. It has been a wonderful experience so far, learning about the difference in culture and experiencing so many new things. I love that there is always something to do in London.
My chosen MSc in Forensic Science was a great choice for me to learn more about a topic I am passionate about. There aren’t many options back home, so being able to student Forensic Science in London has been a dream! The university has many resources for our course, and I am thankful to have chosen Kingston University.
Studies in the UK are slightly different than they are from back home. The biggest difference I noticed is the grading scale compared to my Canadian University. In the UK, it is rare to receive above 80% on exams and coursework. A 70% is considered a distinction. Back home those just sound like average grades but here they are fantastic! My course has an average of 55% and this is quite normal across the university. I do feel that my previous studies in Canada have well prepared me for the changes to the grading scale here.
- Melissa
I decided to move to the UK for my master’s degree as I wanted to visit the country for a long time due to my interest in exploring the culture and beautiful architecture. Knowing that the tuition cost would be very close to a Canadian University also helped my decision to move to the UK. Furthermore, the UK is known for having amazing world-class universities with professors from all around the world.
Oxford is a fantastic student city where you will always have something to see or do as there is something for everyone. You can take an amazing tour of the historic University of Oxford and visit locations where the Harry Potter movies were filmed. The city has many museums such as the Ashmolean but if that’s not your thing you can visit the botanical gardens or go punting in the Thames. Cowley Road contains many of the best restaurants that offer cuisine from around the world, and the nightlife is great for those nights out with friends. My favourite part of Oxford is the fact that the whole city is bike accessible, and anything is only a 5–10-minute bike ride away, giving it the name “Cycle City”.
Oxford Brookes is an excellent University with the most knowledgeable and compassionate instructors I have ever encountered. When it comes to facilities for those enrolled in a nursing or rehabilitation medicine program, the university has multiple state-of-the-art simulation suites with all the best technology and equipment you can imagine. Oxford is so diverse as the university attracts students from around the world, so becoming immersed in various cultures and finding new friendships is easy.
Since Oxford is a student city, there is plenty of student accommodation. Many options exist, from living in a house share with friends to a single-person studio flat. Living in University accommodation has been a great experience. Most rooms are ensuite, so you get your own washroom while sharing a living room and kitchen. The experience is relaxing after a long day of lectures and quiet at night due to building nighttime restrictions. The facilities are also close to grocery stores, restaurants and parks.
My experience using Across the Pond was amazing; my advisor was beneficial and resourceful. She assisted me with the application process, applying for a student visa and answered all my questions and inquiries as soon as possible. She even took time out of her schedule to revise my personal statement, as it is an important part of the application process. I highly recommend using Across the Pond when applying to a UK university.
- Ahmed
Didn't get into your dream study programme, or haven't had time to apply for studies yet? Maybe you got into something you're not sure you're interested in studying, or things in your life have changed since you applied for a programme? If you haven't decided what to do in the autumn, get in touch - we're happy to help you apply for a place in the UK if you're considering studying abroad!
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