What motivated you to study in the United Kingdom

After working for six years, and facing the uncertainty of leaving my professional and financial stability, I decided to take the leap and pursue my dream of living abroad. I felt ready to take the next step in my career, as I have always wanted to continue growing and developing both professionally and personally. I was mainly looking for an English-speaking country to practice the language, and what better choice than the United Kingdom? The country where my favourite book and movie series, Harry Potter, was created, and the home of great musicians like Oasis and Dua Lipa, whom I also love. Additionally, there are daily direct flights from here to Chile, so my parents and family could visit easily. Last but not least, the academic excellence of UK universities and their internationally recognised prestige offered an incredible opportunity to develop in a highly competitive and multicultural environment.
 

How was your academic, personal, and cultural life

Everything in the UK has been a unique and unforgettable experience. I won’t lie, academic life is demanding if you want to achieve distinction, but everything at the university has been amazing. From the facilities to the academic quality, everything is spectacular. The university provides high-tech facilities, events, talks, emotional support, and everything is so well organised that you can focus fully on your studies and enjoy your time. On a personal level, it has been a journey of significant growth. Even at 30, I have always been very close to my parents, and being away from my family was something I had to manage. However, communication through social media and WhatsApp today makes the distance much easier to handle. Time has flown so quickly—it feels like I just arrived, and now this journey is already coming to an end. Culturally, I have learned a lot. The UK is a country with a large immigrant population from all over the world. I have friends from India, China, and the Arab world, and it has been amazing. I’ve tried foods I never imagined eating, learned a few words in Chinese and Hindi, and experienced cultures very different from my own firsthand, which has been incredibly enriching. Finally, being here also allows you to travel easily to other parts of the UK and even Europe, which is amazing.
 

What you have learned

My experience in the UK has been incredibly enriching. Academically, it allowed me to approach accounting and finance from a critical perspective, developing the ability to analyse practices I had never questioned before. Personally, living alone abroad taught me to be more independent, to face problems on my own, and to appreciate cultural diversity. Practicing English in everyday life helped me gain confidence and fluency, while stepping out of my comfort zone allowed me to make friends and seize new opportunities.
 

What you wish you had known before arriving

I wish I had known about the StudentBeans app, which offers discounts at many stores and apps of all kinds.

-  Ivania
 

When I first stepped off the plane at Heathrow, I had no idea how quickly London would start to feel like home. From finding my accommodation to joining my university course, the whole journey of moving to another country has been far smoother and more rewarding than I expected.

Everything started with Across the Pond, the communication and application process were so clear and supportive that it set the tone for everything that followed. The visa process went smoothly, finding a room in London was surprisingly straightforward, and integrating into university life was easy with the friendly staff and professors.
 

Why I Chose the UK

I wanted high-quality, specialised training in Historic Building Conservation, a field in which Britain has a long and well-respected tradition. I’m from Mexico, with a background in architecture, and I was also looking for an international experience that would help me grow both academically and personally.
 

University Life at Kingston: Beyond Lectures

I’m currently studying for my MSc in Historic Building Conservation at Kingston University, and the experience has been incredibly enriching. The course offers a great balance between theory, practical work, and independent research.

We’ve taken part in study trips both within London and further afield, such as to Cambridge, where we spoke directly with conservators at sites like King’s College Chapel. In London, we’ve also visited conservation projects such as the Palace of Westminster and Banqueting House, learning first-hand from professionals about their conservation approaches.

The university’s workshops have been another highlight. As part of the course, we’ve worked with timber, metal, plaster, and other materials. Students are also welcome to use the facilities for their own projects — it really feels like the entire university is at your disposal!
 

Making Friends from All Over the World

I’ve made friends from many different countries, which has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey. Hearing so many perspectives has made me more aware of different cultures and customs. Equally rewarding has been the opportunity to share my own culture with them.
 

Comfortable Housing and a Great Location

I live in private accommodation, a little distance from the university, but I don't mind the commute. Travelling by bus has been a great way to discover new neighbourhoods. I chose a location between the university and central London, which has turned out to be perfect, as galleries, museums, and parks are all within easy reach. While living closer to the university might be more expensive, being open to different locations can be a great way to save money. My room is small, but it's okay, as I spend most of my time in the library anyway. I live in a house with a really cool family; the mum and I get along very well, and we often share recipes. They've been incredibly supportive.
 

Something I Wish I’d Known Before

One thing I wish I’d known before arriving is that in the UK, almost everything is sorted over the phone — from medical appointments to academic queries and course information. At first, making phone calls in English was intimidating, but it ended up boosting my confidence in speaking.
 

Surprisingly Chatty Brits!

Another positive surprise has been how chatty people are. Whether at the bus stop, in the supermarket, or in the local library, British people often strike up a conversation. Small talk happens much more here than in Mexico or other parts of Latin America I’ve lived in, which makes everyday life feel warmer. I wasn’t very confident with small talk at first, but now I see it as a chance to practise and connect with all kinds of people.
 

The Dreaded Dissertation — But Not Here!

In Mexico, the dissertation is often seen as one of the most daunting challenges of university life. It's understandable to feel nervous about it, and I certainly felt that way starting out. However, my experience has been completely different.

For my research, I've found that historical societies, local archives, and London archives have been very open and willing to help. Specialists and people working in the field have responded enthusiastically to my emails, and even companies I contacted have gone out of their way to share knowledge. And, of course, my tutor has been a great guide, pointing me toward useful contacts and strategies. It's been a much more positive and collaborative experience than I anticipated.
 

My Advice to Future Students

• Take part in as many activities as possible, both in and out of university they will enrich your academic and professional life.

• Attend networking events and workshops.

• Explore events related to your personal interests, and don’t be afraid to discover new ones as well, London is yours!

• Try new food!

• Talk to new people, ask questions, and stay curious.

Coming here has been one of the best decisions of my life. If you embrace the unknown, you’ll discover not only academic growth but also countless small moments that make this journey truly unforgettable.

- Luz
 

When I told people back in Mexico I was heading to Scotland for my Master's in Sustainability and Environmental Studies at the University of Strathclyde, I got some puzzled looks. "Scotland? Where is that! Isn't it cold?" they'd say.

Sure, I wanted to live abroad and discover new places - I mean, who doesn't want to explore actual castles instead of just seeing them in movies? But beyond the wanderlust, I was hungry for something more. I already spoke English and knew the UK was this incredible multicultural melting pot where I could meet people from literally everywhere. More importantly, as an environmental engineer, I felt like Mexico wasn't quite there yet with sustainability tech and environmental awareness. I wanted to learn from a place where they actually cared about going green. Little did I know, Scotland would give me way more than I expected – including an intercultural romance and friendships.

Walking into my first lecture at Strathclyde, I thought I was ready. But not quite for these new conditions. In Mexico, professors explain everything in detail and give you lots of extra material. UK style is very different. You need to figure things by yourself. Lectures are more like appetizers - you get the basics, but the main course of learning happens when you're doing independent research for assignments and essays.

My first assignment came back with a 70/100. I was so worried. In Mexico, that would be a bad pass. But then my classmates explained that getting a 70 in the UK is actually brilliant. One lecturer even told us that getting 100% was "practically unachievable." While in Mexico 90 is expected.

Another academic shock? Dissertation timeline. In Mexico, thesis work takes about 1.5 years. Here? Three months. THREE MONTHS! It sounds terrifying, but it's actually quite efficient. Instead of researching indefinitely, you're forced to focus, prioritise, and execute quickly. Assignment-based assessment was another adjustment. Instead of relying heavily on exams, most marks come from essays and projects that require independent work. Initially challenging, but it develops practical skills you'll actually use in your career.

Once I understood the game, everything changed. UK style isn't about regurgitating information - it's about critical analysis, independent thinking, and backing up your arguments with solid research. I had to learn to question everything, analyse from multiple angles, and present my own conclusions. Honestly? It made me a much better researcher and critical thinker than I ever was before.

And can we talk about the library culture here? Because it's absolutely lovely. Back home, studying meant being stuck in my room with textbooks. Here? Waterstones bookshop became my favourite place to make my assignments - cosy corners, pastries, coffee, the smell of new books, and 'ASMR café environment'. The university library was equally cosy, with several spaces to study or write essays. There's something about the atmosphere in UK libraries and bookshops that just works. Maybe it's the soft lighting, maybe it's the centuries-old tradition, but I could spend hours there without feeling restless. Way better than staring at my room walls!

The Student Union was another game-changer that doesn’t exist in Mexico. Freshers' events meant free food coupons (crucial for any student budget) and activities like hiking trips or country explorations at student-friendly prices. These were my gateway to experiencing Scotland properly without surpassing my budget.

University accommodation was my home sweet home - literally a fifteen-minute walk to lectures (perfect for those Scottish rainy days). Living expenses and utilities were all sorted, which made budgeting so much easier as an international student. But here's the thing about shared flats - it's basically a lottery. I got lucky with three amazing flatmates and... well, the fourth one liked taking things that weren't his own. My advice? Establish limits and speak up from the very beginning, even if you are hesitant. Because yes, someone was stealing groceries and even kitchen utensils.

But the good news? One of those flatmates became one of my best friends. This brilliant Indian guy gave me amazing tips - where to shop for the best deals, how to actually succeed in UK assignments, and where to find a couple of my ingredients. We also had many interesting late-night kitchen conversations along with tea and pastries. We'd compare our countries - his experiences, mine, and how both contrasted with Scottish life. These weren't just chats; they were cultural exchange sessions that taught me more about the world than any textbook ever could!

On the other hand, Glasgow absolutely blew my mind. Coming from Mexico, where everything feels car-dependent, suddenly being in a city where I could walk everywhere was liberating. The sidewalks are actually wide enough to walk! (imagine), trees line most streets, and the architecture and greenness of the city is just stunning.

The West End and City Centre became one of my favourite areas - they got this perfect mix of student life, shops, museums, clubs, pubs and beautiful parks. Glasgow is vibrant. Speaking of hidden gems – another must go to is Wetherspoons. Their meal and drink, with or without alcohol, deals are absolutely unbeatable for students. Plus, they open until midnight and offer a wide variety of foods.

But honestly, the best part of being in Scotland is just... walking. Whether it's through Glasgow's tree-lined streets, or hiking in the Highlands, every step feels like you're in a nature documentary. The landscapes are so untouched and breathtaking, it made me understand why Scots are so passionate about protecting their environment.

In addition, as an environmental engineer, seeing Scotland's approach to sustainability gave me hope for the future. This isn't just theoretical and aspirational, over here renewable energy is everywhere, material recovery facilities actually work efficiently, and there are genuine net-zero targets with visible progress. Walking around and seeing wind turbines, proper recycling systems, and buildings designed with energy efficiency in mind was incredibly inspiring. In Mexico, we talk about these things, but here they're just part of daily life. The hiking experiences also showed me how seriously they take ecosystem preservation. These landscapes aren't just beautiful - they're actively protected and managed sustainably. It gave me hope that the environmental solutions I'm studying can actually work on a large scale.

On the other hand, although I thought I was prepared for diversity, Glasgow exceeded all expectations. There are people from literally everywhere, and while us Latinos are definitely a minority, that just made finding each other even more special. My close friends, include people from Indonesia, India, Chile, Scotland, and Saudi Arabia. There's something about the shared experience of being international students that creates instant bonds. And whenever I met other Latinos, it was like finding family members - instant understanding.

Restaurants from every corner of the world means you're always discovering new cuisines, though I have to warn you - what they call "Mexican" food here is basically Tex-Mex at best. Advice? Bring ingredients from home.

About the language, I arrived thinking my English was alright. After all, I could watch movies and read books in English. But international and Scottish accents? That's a whole different ball game. Those first few weeks, I found myself constantly asking "Sorry, could you repeat that?" But, once your ear adjusts, you realize Scottish English isn't just different - it's incredibly expressive and warm. Plus, learning local slang made me feel more like a local and less like a tourist. The vocabulary differences were funny too. Small adjustments, but they all add up to feeling more integrated.

Also, here's something I didn't expect to write about, but it's probably the most important part of my experience: I learned to believe in myself. Coming from a state university in Mexico (not even top 5 nationally), I was terrified I wouldn't be able to compete with students from prestigious institutions worldwide. But you know what? In several topics - microbiology, water management, waste management, public health - I actually knew as much or sometimes more than my classmates. All those years of hands-on experience and Mexican engineering education had prepared me better than I realised!

The supportive environment helped enormously. In Mexico, making mistakes often leads to people making fun of you. Here, professors and classmates appreciate even the smallest efforts and genuinely try to incorporate your ideas. When giving feedback, they always highlight what you did well first. For a naturally shy person like me, this approach was so encouraging.

I also learned to appreciate my heritage and appearance more. Mexico's beauty standards can be quite Eurocentric, but being in such a diverse environment helped me realise that my skin colour and features are beautiful exactly as they are. I genuinely feel more confident and comfortable in my own skin now.

Oh, and I discovered I actually like beer and cider! Who knew? Pub crawling and clubbing became genuine fun, especially knowing that as a woman I could dress as I wanted without worrying about harassment. That feeling of safety and freedom is priceless.

And here's something they don't mention in university brochures: you might just meet the love of your life! There's something about the shared experience of being international students, navigating a new culture together, and supporting each other through new challenges that creates deep connections. Whether it's study sessions or exploring Scotland together on weekends, relationships formed here have a special intensity and authenticity. Plus, there's something incredibly romantic about discovering a new country with someone special by your side. From Edinburgh castle visits to Highland hikes, every experience becomes more meaningful when shared.
 

Finally, Survival Guide: What Every Mexican Student Needs to Know

BRING MEXICAN FOOD! I cannot stress this enough. What they call Mexican food is terrible. Pack tortillas, chocolate, coffee, sopa de pasta, salsas, chile, chocomilk, Maseca - I'm not kidding! You are going to miss them a lot.

Winter prep: Take vitamin D supplements. The lack of sunlight is real, and it affects your mood and energy. But here's the thing - you don't need to bring heavy jackets or blankets from home. All buildings have excellent heating, and everyone uses duvets instead of heavy blankets. Just get a good winter jacket from Mountain Warehouse (great student discounts!) when you arrive.

Practical stuff: You don't need cash - cards work everywhere. Start traveling and exploring immediately because time absolutely flies. Make friends early and don't be afraid to ask questions about anything - people are generally helpful and understanding.

Cultural heads up: Places close surprisingly early (around 5 PM), so plan accordingly. Public transport is fantastic - you won't need to drive anywhere, which is liberating and cost-effective.

Most importantly: Keep in touch with friends and family back home, but don't let homesickness prevent you from fully embracing this experience.
 

Why This Adventure Changed Everything

What started as a desire to see castles and learn about sustainability turned into a complete personal transformation. I became more confident, more culturally aware, more academically rigorous, and yes, I found love along the way.

Scotland didn't just give me a master’s degree - it gave me a new perspective on my own capabilities, my heritage, and what's possible when you step out of your comfort zone.

Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. The combination of academic challenge, cultural diversity, environmental consciousness, and personal growth opportunities makes studying in Scotland an amazing investment beyond your degree.

To any Mexican student considering this journey: pack your tortillas, bring your curiosity, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. Scotland is waiting, and trust me, it's even better than the movies.

- Mariana Gabriela
 

For a long time, I dreamed of living abroad, and the United Kingdom had always caught my attention. I was drawn to its history, its culture, and, of course, the quality of its education. When I discovered the University of Leeds and reviewed the program of study, I felt it was exactly what I was looking for. However, even though I had the desire and the support of my family, taking that step was frightening. One of the reasons I hesitated to start applying to a foreign university was that I thought the application process would be too complex and time-consuming. That was when I came across Across the Pond, who guided me through the entire application process, answered all my questions, and gave me the push I needed to take the leap. Thanks to them, a dream that once seemed so distant became a reality.

Life in Leeds has been one of the most transformative stages of my life. Academically, I found professors who were very knowledgeable and always willing to help, as well as incredible opportunities: I participated in entrepreneurship competitions where I was a finalist, workshops, and projects that aimed to contribute to the university’s growth. But the most valuable part happened outside the classroom: I met people who became my family during this journey, friends from all over the world with whom I shared unforgettable moments. Thanks to them, I never felt alone. I learned that all it takes is being friendly and overcoming the fear of socialising to open the door to friendships that last a lifetime. Now, as I approach the end of this experience, I am certain that I will keep these friendships forever, and thanks to them, I will always have reasons to keep travelling the world.

Travelling within the United Kingdom was also a very special part of my experience: it was affordable and allowed me to explore different cities, landscapes, and traditions. I fondly remember the gatherings where each of us cooked something typical from our country; it felt like travelling around the world at one single table. At the same time, I had the opportunity to discover English culture up close: the kindness of the people, their openness to share, and the way they value their identity left a lasting impression on me.

From this experience, I take away an important lesson: in life, you have to be brave. Taking big steps is always scary, but it is those leaps that bring us closer to the future we want to build. Living in Leeds taught me that there will always be something new to learn and that the world is as diverse as it is fascinating.

If there is something I wish I had known before arriving, it would be the number of benefits we have as students: discounts on transportation, museum tickets, restaurants, and even trips. It would also have been helpful to know in advance about the social clubs and events organised by the university, as they are perfect for making friends from day one. As a Mexican in the United Kingdom, I discovered all of this little by little, but it would have been so useful to take advantage of it right from the start.

Today, I can say that studying in Leeds not only gave me a quality education but also memories, lessons, and a second family that I will always carry with me. It was the bravest decision I have ever made, and without a doubt, the one that has changed my life the most.

- Laura Susana
 

Where My Dream Began

Since I was 17, I dreamed of studying abroad. I always felt that the best way to grow was to step outside what you already know, so I promised myself that one day I’d do my postgraduate studies outside Mexico. For me, the UK was always the place. Its universities are world-class, full of opportunities, and I was fascinated by how innovative the country is, not just in science and technology, but in so many fields.
 

How I Made It to the UK

After 7 years of just dreaming about it, that dream finally became a reality thanks to the British Council Women in STEM scholarship. With their financial support and the assistance of Across the Pond on my application process, I moved to Glasgow to study an MSc in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde. From the very beginning it felt like a completely new chapter of my life. At first, everything was overwhelming: a new language, a different education system, and even the food and weather. But little by little, things started to feel familiar. My professors were supportive, and soon I found myself learning things I never imagined, discovering new passions that now make me want to pursue a PhD in tissue engineering.
 

The Best Parts of My Master’s Year

Once I settled in, I began to realize just how many opportunities the UK offers, not only academically, but also for networking, cultural exchange, and professional growth. Beyond the classroom, living in Glasgow was an adventure in itself. Coming from a small town in Mexico, I appreciated the calm atmosphere of the city, but I also loved that there was always something to do. I even discovered a new hobby: taking dance classes, while enjoying dinners with my friends and exploring the nightlife.

But what truly made the year unforgettable were the people. I met friends from all over the world who quickly became like family. We shared the same struggles and joys, and those connections made everything so much easier. Now, when I think of countries like France, Thailand, Taiwan, Iran, and China, I don’t just picture maps, I remember the people I met and the memories we created together.
 

My Biggest Lesson Abroad

Looking back, the academic side was only part of the journey. Living abroad also changed me in ways I didn’t expect. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me that I’m stronger and more capable than I thought. I learned to manage life on my own, in another language, far from my family, and still find happiness in the small things. It wasn’t always easy, but those challenges shaped me into someone more confident, independent, and open to the world.
 

What I’d Tell My Past Self

If I could go back in time and talk to my past self, I’d say this: once you go abroad, everything changes, your relationships, your perspective, even the way you see yourself. And of course, I’d add a practical tip: bring as many Mexican snacks as you can (and definitely pack a good raincoat! it takes time get used to the weather).

Studying in the UK was, without doubt, the best year of my life. It wasn’t just about the degree, it was about the people I met, the opportunities I discovered, and the person I became in the process. I came here with the dream of studying, but I’m leaving with so much more: a new family of friends, a stronger belief in myself, and the certainty that the world is full of possibilities if you’re brave enough to take the first step.

- Angeles