The country felt like a home to me
I found my entire time studying abroad to be life-changing. London, England is a whole new world in itself; with a much different culture, architecture, and atmosphere than my hometown of Austin, Texas. I choose to study at the University of Roehampton in London because it is a partner university that my home institution had worked with previously and I knew our education standards were similar; so the transition would be made slightly easier. Upon arriving at the University of Roehampton I was greeted by study abroad staff who lived in London for many years, they were kind and helpful when introducing us to our new home. As a political science major, I knew I wanted to indulge myself in the British world of politics, and at the time of my arrival, I was thrown into the political arena! At the time of my arrival, the Queen had just passed and the country was going through Prime Minister changes. These events encouraged me to stay focused on my mission of attaining as much knowledge on the politics of the country. I had the privilege to visit the Houses of Parliament at Westminster and attended a debate as well as joined political activists in a March against greenhouse emissions. Being in London was surreal to me, as the city is the epicenter of world culture, architecture, history and so much more! I knew I wanted to be involved within the city and travel to the surrounding areas to gain a better insight into England and the UK as a whole.
Throughout my time, I made many local friends who were more than happy to take me around London and to their hometowns to give me a taste of what their lives were like before moving to “London Town.” I had the chance to visit the quaint city of Bicester by train. Coming from the US, this was a new experience for me as I'm so used to driving everywhere. I must admit, I had an emotional moment on the way; I was able to sit and view the countryside. Taking this all in made me appreciate the opportunity I had been given as many people back home would and will not have the pleasure to view England's countryside, though it's something that we talked about in school and viewed on television. Another opportunity I am greatly thankful for was the opportunity to stay in the picture-perfect town of Lewes, England. When I received an extremely joyful invitation from my friend and her parents to stay with them over the break. I knew this was a special moment I would remember for the rest of my life. My entire time at their welcoming home was full of cultural exchanges, more than I had ever experienced in my life. I was introduced to marmalade, meat pies, Yorkshire puddings and so much more! We also discussed the politics of our countries and found we all share similar values and goals for the world that include inclusivity and equality. I stay in contact with my friend and her family to this day! I will forever cherish the memories and exchanges we shared, I could not have asked for a better family to invite me into their home.
I realized how much, not just the town of Lewes but the whole of the country felt like a home to me. Even in my accommodation, which was located on the ground floor of a 3 story building in a small complex on campus, I felt that I could be comfortable just as I would in my home back in the States. Though I shared a space with 3 other roommates, I befriended them and we got along so well that we had scheduled dinner nights every week. We'd cook tacos in our shared kitchen and recalled stories of our hometowns, this was made special by the fact that we were each from different countries! The exposure to different cultures like this was something I hadn't experienced before as I came from South Texas, which is predominantly Hispanic. I enjoyed our late-night talks and going to the local pub and discussed our stress levels for upcoming assignments and papers.
While at the University of Roehampton, the most noticeable difference in my education was that I only had class twice a week. This gave me a large chunk of free time during the week to complete assignments and travel. Most assignments were writing papers, which I love, and in-class discussions, in which I excel. My favorite course was my Political Philosophy class which focused on philosophers and their thoughts on politics, religion, and mankind. My professor, from Paris, was passionate about teaching and ensuring we understood the class discourse as well as our research paper, so he scheduled mandatory one-on-one meetings to ensure our readiness. We met through Zoom while I was visiting Paris and we discussed my research paper as well as places to visit in Paris. He understood the needs I had, as a study abroad student: getting accustomed to the grading system, academic practices, and of course indulging in my host country.
Though my time in London was limited, the memories are forever engrained and have become a part of who I am. The friends I made will always have a special place in my heart and I will continue to have contact with them, hoping to one day see them again; either in their home countries or in mine! I am thankful for the opportunity to study abroad and am entirely grateful to my home institution, St. Edward's University for encouraging me to explore. I couldn't have chosen a better host institution, the University of Roehampton, with its smaller campus size allowing me to meet and mingle with individuals from across the world with varying and insightful perspectives.
- Vince
Great opportunity to see more of the world
During my gap year, one of my friends from England recommended that I apply to schools in the UK. I decided that studying abroad would be a great opportunity to see more of the world while furthering my education. I researched many universities and towns and found five I really liked. I also found “Across the Pond” which was a massive help when it came to applying to the universities and using UCAS. My advisor was always able to give me answers to questions I had, and she still continues to do so even after I have been studying in England for two years! If I didn’t use Across the Pond I would have struggled a lot with the application and visa process as it was quite complicated on my own. I am so glad it is a free and easy to use service!
Studying at University for the Creative Arts
The university I chose to go to was University for the Creative Arts in Farnham. Out of all the universities I applied to, this one was the cheapest, had the best location as it’s only an hour train ride from London, and had a great program for Film Production which I was studying. Now that I’m nearly done with year two, I have had the chance to adjust properly to uni life. I love that it is a fairly small university because you get the chance to meet more people. I have found that every time I go out into town I see at least one person I know which is a very comforting feeling especially since I live so far away from home. Since it is a smaller university it is easier to get one on one help from the staff. I have never had a problem connecting with the staff, they all genuinely want you to succeed and you can feel that with how they try to help you. Overall, the University for the Creative Arts is a really wonderful university that I am proud to study at!
Adjusting to Student Life
Life in England vs America seemed like it would be a bigger leap than it actually was. It definitely is very scary leaving family and friends for the first time to come to England but after a little bit you get used to it. I hadn’t visited England before coming to study here and once I got here everything seemed so new. After only living in America my whole life it was hard not to notice the little things that were different but it got easier as most things do with time. The hardest part was getting groceries and taking them back to my accommodation but once I found a friend who offered to drive to get groceries it was way better! It was very interesting being able to buy alcohol without needing to be 21 and that was a strange adjustment. Living without your family gives you a whole new sense of independence which is a cool feeling! Being able to travel anywhere I wanted to was great! On days off from university I would go on the train to a different city and just explore. The public transportation here is amazing and something I wish we saw more of in America. Overall, life in England is fairly easy to transition to from America as there are some differences but for the most part it’s the same just with cooler accents!
Advice for Studying Abroad
I feel like I came fairly prepared and aware of differences in England but there were still some things I wish I was aware of or that I would have done differently. Here are some of them:
- Buy the 16-25 railcard for trains. Saves so much money and is so worth it
- Get a bank account ASAP!
- Try to work for your university while studying as their work schedule will revolve around the school year so you won’t have to work over summer break!
- Water tastes different here which took some getting used to
- Everywhere closes much earlier on sundays
- Portion sizes are smaller, which I was aware of, but they are MUCH smaller
- Movies have different release dates than the US (Most of the time they are later than US release dates)
- Justine
What it is like study in the UK
In UK universities you are given more responsibility from day one. In an undergraduate setting a class will be broken into two sections, you will have a lecture lead by a more senior academic that will have 50 people in it. Then you will be broken into a tutorial that will be much smaller and lead by an adjunct professor. Often classes are only once a week and will not have any assignments during a term. Your grade will be assessed by only a large essay due at the end. This puts a level of responsibility onto you to make sure you are keeping up with lessons and the readings. I often found that your professors are extremely supportive. If you are interested in a topic they will give you directions on where to go to find out more. I found this very helpful when writing my master's dissertation as there was a constant line of communication during the whole writing process. Overall, UK universities rely more on you to motivate yourself as an individual.
Accommodation
Accommodations are very different to the US, and for the better. Firstly, say goodbye to cinder block walls, tile floors, roommates, and shared bathrooms with 20 other students. In the UK you’ll have carpet, your own room and often your own bathroom. It will be similar to a suite setup in many American colleges. However, you will often have a fully functioning kitchen. There are no dining halls so you will be responsible for cooking your own food. You will share the kitchen and common area with 6-8 other students which I found to be rather nice. It is a great place to chat and hang out. In some cases your accommodation may be a little farther from campus then you are used to but often it isn’t that far of a walk and depending on the city there is normally a bus nearby that can take you there. In the accommodation you and your housemates are left to be in charge of keeping the place clean and tidy. I found that living in accommodation like this felt more like being in a home and it helped make the transition to a new country very helpful.
University in London
London is a massive place that always has something new going on. As a student it is full of opportunities to do something new every weekend. There are always tons of student discounts available to a wide range of things. London is also home to many universities so you will meet people who attend universities all around London. One thing I absolutely loved about studying in London was how much the city was used as an extension of the classroom. In one class every week we were in a new area of London learning about how and why it developed. In a different class we explored the many museums of London. It is also an international city, you can see that it influences everything from the food to the street names. It was wonderful to interact with so many people from different background, who have all be brought together by a city. London is also well connected to any part of the UK and you can get a train or flight to almost anywhere in Europe if you ever get bored of this amazing city.
- Ben
4 reasons to study in Southampton
Studying in Southampton can offer a rich and fulfilling academic experience. Southampton is a vibrant city located on the south coast of England, known for its prestigious universities and diverse cultural scene. There are several reasons why one might want to study abroad in Southampton or any other location, and here is some of the reasons I chose to follow that path.
When I was in Junior High School in Norway, I had set some expectations of what I wanted from my student experience. I appreciate the possibility to merge with different cultures broadening your horizon, as well as learning English in a way you will not be taught in your home-country. For my degree in Maritime Business at Solent University in Southampton became the obvious choice, it is a well renowned university with a broad reach within the industry.
Academic Excellence:
The UK is renowned for its high-quality education system, and Southampton is no exception. The city is home to the University of Southampton and Solent University, the former being a prestigious institution consistently ranked among the top universities globally, and the latter being well-renowned, especially within the maritime industry, with many professionals holding degrees from this university. Studying in Southampton provides access to world-class faculties, cutting-edge simulators, and a robust academic environment that fosters intellectual growth and a network.
Global Perspective:
Studying abroad offers a unique opportunity to gain a global perspective and broaden one's horizons. Southampton, being a multicultural city with a diverse student population, provides an ideal environment for intercultural exchange and learning. Engaging with students from different backgrounds and cultures can enhance your understanding of the world, promote tolerance, and develop important cross-cultural skills that are highly valued in today's interconnected world.
Personal Growth:
Studying abroad challenges you to step out of your comfort zone and become more independent and self-reliant. Living in a different country, away from familiar surroundings, allows you to develop resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. It also offers a chance to explore new interests, discover new passions, and gain a sense of personal accomplishment through overcoming challenges. These experiences can have a profound impact on your personal growth and development.
Career Opportunities:
Studying abroad can significantly enhance your career prospects. The UK is known for its excellent education system, and degrees from British universities carry a strong reputation worldwide. Studying in Southampton can provide you with access to a range of internship and employment opportunities in diverse fields, thanks to the city's strong links with industry. The international experience and cultural competence gained while studying abroad can make you stand out to potential employers in today's global job market.
4 REASONS TO LIVE IN SOUTHAMPTON
Living in the south of England offers a variety of perks and advantages that make it an appealing place to reside. Here are some of the notable perks of living in the southern part of England:
Climate:
The southern region of England enjoys a milder climate compared to the rest of the country. Summers are generally warmer, and winters are relatively mild, with less rainfall compared to other parts of the UK. This pleasant climate allows for a greater range of outdoor activities and a generally more enjoyable year-round experience.
Natural Beauty:
The south of England is renowned for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. From the picturesque countryside to the breath-taking coastline, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and appreciate the great outdoors. The South Downs National Park, the New Forest, and the Jurassic Coast are just a few examples of the natural wonders that await residents in this region.
Historical and Cultural Heritage:
The southern part of England is rich in history and boasts numerous historical sites and landmarks. Cities like London, Bath, Oxford, and Winchester are known for their iconic architecture, museums, and cultural institutions. Living in the south provides easy access to these historical gems, allowing residents to immerse themselves in centuries of heritage.
Close-by Cities:
The south of England is home to several vibrant and dynamic cities, each with its own unique character and attractions. London, the capital city which is only a short 2-hour train journey, offers a world-class cultural scene, diverse neighbourhoods, renowned museums, and a plethora of career opportunities. Other cities such, Brighton, Bristol, and Bath are also a mere 1-hour journey, while the closest Cities such as Bournemouth and Portsmouth are just 30 minutes away. If you want to explore Europe while studying, the flight connections to Europe are endless at London Gatwick. Weekend getaways to Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, or other European cities are just a short flight or train ride away, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy exploring different cultures and destinations.
- Mikkel
Studying in the UK has been a good experience
Studying in the UK has been a good experience for me, and it has given me the opportunity to grow as an individual but also as a member of groups and societies. I decided to study in the UK, because I wanted to experience other cultures and learn more about international opportunities after graduation.
Why I chose University of Chester
I chose the University of Chester mainly because I am originally from a small town in Norway (Ålesund), and therefore I thought it would be a smooth change to Chester, in comparison to London or any other big cities. The campus is very open and there is a nice opportunity to meet other people and to socialize. I mainly used the library, sports hall, gym, dining hall and the SU Bar on campus.
Accommodation
My first year I had an accommodation trough the University, and that gave me an opportunity to gain more friends because I lived with other people. It also was my preference my first year because the university provides you with good information that you need in order to get sorted. The two next years I rented with Abbey Rentals, mainly because it is a smaller accommodation and it felt homier.
Student life in Chester compared to Norway
The student life is very different from my hometown, mainly because there are a lot of social events, and you have free taster sessions for all the sports and clubs. These two factors made it very easy for me to get friends and improve my social skills because there is a different culture.
Information about my course
I studied Business Management as a Bachelor, mainly because I could get a broad knowledge about all the different topics when it comes to business. In the second year you get to choose one module out of a selection (maybe two, I don’t remember), and I chose Finance because that it what I found the most interesting. My third year I could choose two modules, and they both were finance related. I like this course mainly because I got some knowledge into HR, marketing, entrepreneurship, strategic management and finance.
How is Chester
The town is apparently known for their shopping street, but it is a decent size. There is a lot of pubs, cafes and places to have a nice chat with friends. I love the city because it has a lot of history, there is old buildings and there are many buskers which I don’t see in Norway. It is only five minutes with a bus to Cheshire Oaks, which is a great place to buy discounted brands etc. Cheshire Oaks also have an activity park, cinema and arcade with bowling.
Spare time, socializing
I played volleyball for the university and therefore we had socials every Wednesday with different themes. I got most of my friends from the volleyball society, but also from my first year living in the shared accommodation provided by the university. The friends that I got in Chester was from all around the world such as Germany, Greece, UK, Norway, Spain and Poland.
Transition to studying in the UK
I found the transition quite nice, because English is my second language since it is something that has been learned from the age of 6. However, I experienced a culture shock mainly because they have a different way to speak to each other (banter), and a lot of slang.
Good to know before applying to university in the UK
I had a difficulty getting an English account because it was a process since I am an international person. Therefore, it could be smart to start looking into different banks beforehand. I chose to have an English account mainly because I could transfer to that account when the exchange rate was low, so I was able to make myself a monthly budget in pounds and I knew how much I had in pounds.
How was Across the Pond
I found the application process very pleasant. It was mainly because I got a lot of guidance from my contact in Across the Pond, and therefore it wasn’t that scary applying and figuring things out.
- Fride-Helen
