I decided to pursue an MA in Creative Writing because I have always been passionate about storytelling, and the UK felt like the perfect place to do so. Many universities there have strong programs in this field, and I was eager not only to learn from them but also to live abroad, meet people from different cultures, and experience a new academic environment. I chose the University of Derby because its program emphasized employability, with modules such as Working as a Writer, which gave me practical tools for considering writing as a profession.

I lived in Agard Court, one of the university halls, which gave me the chance to meet both UK and international students. They quickly became friends, many of whom I’m still in touch with, and helped me adapt to cultural differences. Derby itself was a wonderful place to live: it’s a small, charming, multicultural city where I felt safe and inspired. I used to write in cafés in the city centre and loved walking in Darley Park, which is simply beautiful.

Of course, adapting was not always easy. As a Mexican student, even though I already spoke English, writing in a second language came with its challenges. I had learned mostly the US system, so I had to adjust to British spelling and academic conventions. For example, reflective essays were something new to me, since in Mexico academic writing tends to focus more on facts than on one’s own ideas. At first it was difficult, but over time I came to appreciate how much value was placed on originality and critical thinking. Having friends to guide me through cultural and linguistic details helped as well. For instance, learning not to use ‘trash’ but ‘bin,’ and to always boil water in a kettle, never in the microwave!

The course itself was a dream fulfilled. The MA gave me the chance to share my writing with peers in workshops, receive feedback from professors with real-world recognition, and grow more confident in my own voice. These discussions and exchanges made me realize what kind of stories I want to tell, and that writing is not just a solitary pursuit but also an opportunity for dialogue.

Student life was full of small but meaningful moments. I spent most of my free time with friends I met in my accommodation and classes. We went to pubs, the cinema, or even to cafés where we could paint pottery together. It was a balance between studying, writing, and simply enjoying the experience of living abroad.

Looking back, I am grateful for everything I learned, not just academically but also personally. I discovered new ways of thinking and writing, built friendships across cultures, and proved to myself that I could adapt to a different system. It was challenging at times, but it was also inspiring, and it made me more certain than ever that writing is the path I want to pursue.

- Jimena
 

It all started with an Instagram ad (and a gut feeling)

While I was looking for master’s options in Mexico and already feeling the academic cycle slipping away, I came across an ad from Across the Pond on social media: “Would you like to study in the UK with support from CONACYT / FUNED?” It was as if the algorithm knew exactly what I needed to see. Even though I thought it was already too late to apply, that question sparked something in me: what if it IS possible?

What attracted me most about the UK was the one-year programme duration, the flexibility, and the professional focus of its universities. Coming from a musical background and looking to move into cultural management, the UK seemed like the perfect bridge to transform my career.
 

Choosing De Montfort University: creativity, practice and community

After reviewing many options, De Montfort University (DMU) was the one that truly convinced me. Their MA in Cultural Events Management didn’t just focus on the artistic side, but also on planning, leadership, and real-world festival management. In no time, I received an offer letter and realised it was all becoming real.

DMU offers a diverse, inclusive environment, approachable lecturers, and countless extracurricular opportunities. From day one, I felt that my voice mattered, even when I was still insecure about my English.
 

Funding my master’s with FIDERH and FUNED: a strategic investment

Applying to FIDERH and FUNED was a major and challenging step. The paperwork, the essays, the decisions... at times, I felt overwhelmed. But having my family’s support and the guidance from Across the Pond was key. They helped me stay focused and reminded me that I wasn’t alone.

Although I was afraid of taking on debt, I came to understand that FIDERH and FUNED weren’t just loans – they were strategic tools that allowed me to study without as much financial pressure. I’m currently in the grace period, preparing to take on that responsibility with much more clarity and confidence.
 

Shared house, shared laughs: my accommodation experience

For my first 10 months, I lived in student accommodation, and I totally recommend it for anyone arriving for the first time. The facilities were comfortable, the space wasn’t huge but definitely enough, and the reception and maintenance teams were always ready to help with any issue.

Now I live in a house, but starting in student accommodation made everything simpler. My advice: research hidden costs if you’re renting independently. Sometimes the simplest option is what gives you the most peace of mind, especially in your first year.
 

Academic English: from blocked to unlocked

Yes, studying in English was tough. At first, I felt insecure about speaking, writing essays, or participating in seminars. But the university always provided support, patience, and resources to help us improve. Nobody judged our mistakes – instead, they valued the effort to grow.

What helped me most was networking, not being afraid to speak up, and asking for corrections. The language stopped being a barrier when I started treating it as a tool that evolves with you.
 

Leicester: the city that helped me stay focused

Leicester isn’t London, but it has everything you need: diversity, culture, peace, and opportunities. It’s a city where you can focus without constant distractions. It has creative spaces, museums, festivals, and a rich multicultural atmosphere.

If your priority is to study while still having access to art and culture, I definitely recommend Leicester.
 

Beyond the classroom: films, culture and community

In my free time, I enjoy going to the cinema, visiting museums, attending concerts, bars, and trying new food. I also volunteered at festivals, joined the Latin Society and the Radio Society at DMU, and attended many extracurricular workshops and talks offered by the university to train future cultural leaders.

Making friends isn’t always easy at first. But once you connect with someone, it’s for life. I’ve made friends from Mexico, Latin America, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Malaysia, Brazil, and more.
 

Lessons for Latin American students

If I could give you one piece of advice, it would be this: learn how to really use a planner.

Not just to write down appointments, but as a structure for your personal goals, time, habits, rest and progress. Everything here is scheduled in advance, via email, and organised. Starting to use a proper planner before coming to the UK will help you adapt and make the most of your time.

(Not even joking: sometimes it feels like you need to schedule being sick two weeks in advance!)
 

Thank you, Across the Pond

Thanks to their guidance and support – especially from my advisors – I was able to understand the application process, clear my doubts, structure my essays and documents better, and never feel alone. Having that kind of free, trustworthy support made a huge difference.
 

And if you're reading this with doubts...

Believe me, I’ve been there too. Full of questions, insecurities, fear of rejection, fear of the language, money, and the change. But what I discovered is that the UK is not an impossible dream. With the right strategy, support, networks and clarity of purpose, it IS possible.

You’re closer than you think. All that’s left is for you to take the first step.

- Javier
 

Why did you decide to study in the United Kingdom?

The United Kingdom had always attracted me for its rich history, academic excellence, and global reputation. The prospect of pursuing a master’s degree in England seemed highly enriching, both professionally and culturally. In addition, the University of Leeds —the institution I applied to— is renowned for its diversity of people and cultures. I knew that the friendships and professional connections I would find there would provide me with a global outlook and a valuable network.
 

How was your experience with FIDERH, FUNED, or other support?

To achieve my goal of studying at this university, I turned to different scholarships and funding opportunities such as FIDERH, SECIHTI, and excellence scholarships awarded by the university itself. Each of these sources of support was essential, and the guidance from Across the Pond proved invaluable in helping me identify and secure them.
 

What did you learn and what advice would you give?

My advice for anyone who shares the goal of pursuing a postgraduate degree in the UK is simple: get informed, stay organised, and take it one step at a time. The opportunities to achieve your goals exist; it is a matter of finding them and daring to pursue them. The process can be competitive, but do not be afraid of rejection or of trying again. Remember that there are people with experience who are willing to guide and support you along the way to help you achieve the best results. By following their advice and ticking off your checklist step by step, you will find yourself living your goal sooner than you think.

- Ana
 

What motivated you to study in the United Kingdom?

What attracted me the most to pursuing a postgraduate degree in the UK was the high academic quality of the programmes, their shorter duration compared to those in Mexico, and the opportunity to gain an international experience.
 

Why did you decide to apply for a loan such as FIDERH or FUNED?

Studying in the UK can represent a financial challenge. The FIDERH loan offered me the possibility of having greater financial freedom during my stay in England, under accessible and flexible conditions.
 

How was your experience during the application and funding process?

At first, the requirements seemed numerous and overwhelming, but by staying organised, working ahead of time, and with the support of the advisors at Across the Pond, the process became much more manageable and everything gradually fell into place.
 

What fears or concerns did you have at the beginning and how did you overcome them?

My biggest fear was committing to repaying a loan, as I had never done so formally before. Although I had experience managing my own finances and credit cards, applying for a loan felt intimidating. However, I decided to thoroughly inform myself about both the loan and the living expenses in the UK, and to compare the available options. Thanks to my research and the guidance from Across the Pond, I confirmed that FIDERH was the right choice for me.
 

How did this support help you make your postgraduate studies a reality?

The financial support from FIDERH was truly invaluable. It gave me greater independence during my time abroad and the peace of mind to fully dedicate myself to my studies. Achieving what I have today would not have been possible without this support.

- Ana
 

When I decided to study in the United Kingdom, I knew that this opportunity meant not only a quality education, but also the unique possibility of exploring one of the countries with the greatest historical and cultural richness in Europe. During my stay in the United Kingdom, I have managed to organize my time to visit fascinating cities that have deeply enriched my personal and academic experience.
 

The Best Times to Travel

My experience has taught me that timing is fundamental to making the most of travels throughout the United Kingdom. The summer months, especially from June to August, became my favorites for traveling, as during these dates, the days are considerably longer, and the weather is warmer. However, I also discovered the special charm of traveling during university vacation periods in spring and autumn. In April and May, the gardens are in full bloom, and August-September offers pleasant temperatures with fewer tourist crowds.
 

My Best Travel Investment

One of the smartest decisions I made was acquiring a Railcard at the beginning of my stay. This card, which costs £30 annually, provided me with discounts on all my train journeys. Considering that a trip from Aberdeen to London can easily cost £85, the card paid for itself after just three long trips.

The flexibility it gave me was invaluable. I could make spontaneous travel decisions during weekends, knowing that transportation costs would be significantly lower.
 

Strategic Planning: Following Geography

One of the most costly mistakes I almost made was planning trips without considering the country's geography. Initially, I thought of visiting London, then Edinburgh, then Bath, and finally Liverpool. This route would have meant constantly going back and forth across the map, doubling my transportation costs and travel time.

Instead, I developed a "linear routes" strategy that saved me considerable money and time. For example, one of my most successful routes was: London → Oxford → Bath → Birmingham → York → Edinburgh. This sequence allowed me to explore systematically, visiting each city along the way without backtracking, and also allowed me to gradually observe the cultural and landscape changes of the country, from the cosmopolitan cities of the south to the dramatic Scottish landscapes.
 

Maximizing Weekends and Holidays

My travel strategy was completely adapted to my academic calendar. Long weekends became perfect opportunities to explore nearby cities. From my base in Aberdeen, I could take full-day trips to Dunnottar Castle or Glasgow in the same day.

For more distant destinations like England, I reserved the longer university holidays. This planning allowed me to completely immerse myself in each region without the pressure of returning quickly to my studies.
 

Final Reflections

Studying in the United Kingdom gave me much more than an academic education; it offered me an incomparable window to explore centuries of history, from the Roman walls of York to the medieval castles of Dunnottar. Each trip complemented my formal education, providing me with experiences I will always remember.

The key to success was treating these trips not as a distraction from my studies, but as an integral extension of my educational experience. Each city visited added a new dimension to my understanding of British culture, its history, and its regional diversity. At the end of my program, I will not only obtain an academic degree, but also a deep appreciation for the cultural richness of this extraordinary country and memories that I will treasure for life.

- Paola