Hello, my name is Paula. I'm Mexican, and in September, I moved to Aberdeen, Scotland, to pursue my MSc Digital Marketing at RGU. This process took me over two years to finalise, as I kept postponing it because I knew I would miss my family, friends, and the comfort of home. Perhaps, deep down, I was afraid I wouldn’t succeed, but I couldn’t be more grateful for having made this decision. I now understand that it happened at the right time, and I never imagined that in the process, I would meet the right person to share this experience with—my husband, Gerardo.

Since my first contact with the agency Across the Pond, my advisor was always attentive and understanding of my process. And when I decided to take the next step, the agency was always there, offering her support and motivation through advice and guidance for each of the steps I needed to take. Thank you for everything!

A month before this adventure began, my life took a 360° turn—I married the love of my life! Of course, we had many doubts at first about how the long-distance relationship would work, but I can tell you that, although it’s not easy, it is possible. We were very fortunate to be able to move to Aberdeen, a city that has been very generous and has allowed us to grow, enjoy, appreciate, and value each of the experiences we’ve gone through.
 

Student Life

Robert Gordon University makes you feel welcome from day one. All the activities and events they organize during the first weeks of classes help you meet many people and find the club/society that you like. In my case, I joined dance, swimming, and the Latin American society. I also met the Mexican society at the University of Aberdeen, and it’s nice to feel a bit of home in a new country.

Regarding classes, I was surprised by how flexible my schedule was. I mostly had 3 to 4 subjects per semester and attended classes 2 to 3 hours a day with at least one weekday off. This is very different from my home country, but it’s something I appreciated because it allowed us to explore the city, travel, engage in other activities, or work. Additionally, the classes connect you with the industry by working directly with live clients who come to the classroom to talk about their companies, and they allow us to propose strategies and campaigns for them. This was great for me because it was my first time experiencing this area. Overall, the campus is large and offers many facilities that make student life more comfortable, stress-free, and easily accessible, such as the library, gym with a pool, or the cafeterias (there’s a Starbucks). However, it’s important to develop the ability to be self-taught. All the professors are very kind and available via email or in class, and the topics they cover are precise and with plenty of material for us to learn more, but it is necessary to be organized and committed.

I lived for four months in a school residence, which was a great experience sharing with six other people. The villa was lovely and a 30-minute walk from the school. The best part was that I had my own bathroom in my room. Perhaps something I didn’t quite get used to was adapting to the different ideas of cleanliness that each of us had, but overall, everything went well. Then, my husband arrived in Aberdeen, and we moved into an apartment by ourselves, which is also a good option if you prefer to have your own space. The only downside is that the electricity and gas bills can be high in winter, but good organization can solve that.

Lastly, as I mentioned, it’s easy to combine work and studies, and although the job search process can be slow, you will find something. In my case, I’ve worked as a receptionist, nanny, accountant (remotely), but the best part was finding a job that allowed me to give back a little of what RGU gave me—I’m a Student Ambassador, and it has been an experience that has taught me a lot.
 

Aberdeen

Aberdeen has it all. It’s perfect for students, couples, and entire families. It has beaches, mountains, parks, museums, international restaurants, and much more. It’s located in the northeast of Scotland, three hours from Edinburgh and Glasgow. It’s actually very easy and even economical to travel between these three main destinations in Scotland and around. My favourite part of Aberdeen is undoubtedly the beach. It has a boardwalk where you can walk, grab a snack from food trucks, visit the mini amusement park, dine at delicious restaurants, go to the cinema, shop, or even see the Northern Lights.

Scottish people are very friendly. They always try to talk to you, see how you’re doing, or ask if they can help with anything. The weather in the city depends on the time of year, but what’s always present is a bit of wind and rain. In December, there’s snow, and it’s fascinating to see it fall and wake up the next day to streets covered in white. The sunlight is something very drastic here. In autumn-winter, the sun can set as early as 3:30 pm and rise around 8:00 am, but in spring-summer, night almost doesn’t exist. There can be light from 4:00 am until 11:00 pm, and well, it depends on each person’s preference, but what I love most about the weather is that you get to enjoy both the cold and warmth without it going to extremes.

For me, this adventure felt like starting over in many aspects of my life. I feel it has been an opportunity to grow both professionally and personally, with some challenges but also with many unique and special moments, and above all, with new dreams that I can share with the people I love.

Today, I can say that it has all been worth it. Thank you!

- Paula
 

After graduating from university, I spent a few years working in the industry, but I still wanted to pursue a master's degree, mainly focused on research. After investigating various options and evaluating my possibilities, with the help of my Across the Pond advisor, I enrolled at Queen Mary University of London.

At the time of writing this essay, a year has passed since I started studying in London, to the point where I'm about to finish the program. I can summarise that my experience has exceeded my expectations in several ways, which I will try to outline in the following paragraphs.

In the academic area, the experience completely surpassed my expectations and led me to push myself to the maximum. I feel as if there's a before and after in terms of the knowledge I've acquired, and I know it will help me get a job in my master's field or, if I decide to, continue with a Ph.D. Contrary to other experiences I've heard about, I can't say it's been easy, but it's quite rewarding to see that consistent work over extended periods has its rewards.

I must make a parenthesis about something that was initially a shock for me. The grading system in the UK is not the same as in Mexico. Here, a 70 could be considered a 90 in Mexico. Any value above 70 is a great grade and is called a "distinction." In one class, on my very first grade, I got a 67, which is in the range between 60 and 69 and is considered a "merit." However, not being used to this grading system, I got quite scared, thinking I would have to work much harder than I was accustomed to.

Regarding my stay, I met people from practically all continents with equally enriching and very diverse worldviews. I believe that the most important thing when meeting such different people is to always be willing to listen, not judge, and want to learn from others.

Lastly, London is an impressive city; there's always something to do or someplace to visit. You can get lost for days in any area of the city and always find something you haven't seen before that will amaze you. Its museums, theatres, parks, monuments, and bars speak of how it is a living city that reinvents itself and is in constant evolution. You can be having coffee in a building that was built more than 500 years ago while looking at a skyscraper through the window.

This is just a summary of the experience I've had during my stay in London, with some recommendations. Like everything in life, my experience as a student in London is coming to an end and, without a doubt, it has been something I will always remember and would repeat without hesitation. I would like to conclude with a quote from Gimli from The Lord of the Rings: "Torment in the dark was the danger that I feared, and it did not hold me back. But I would not have come, had I known the danger of light and joy. Now I have taken my worst wound in this parting, even if I were to go this night straight to the Dark Lord."
 

Recommendations when studying in London

●      Monitor your budget: it's very easy to survive on a limited budget, but be careful where you go out or eat because it's equally easy to spend your weekly budget in just one outing.

●      Always carry a raincoat and waterproof footwear; you never know when it might rain.

●      The city has an impressive transport infrastructure: there will always be a metro line or bus that will take you to your destination. Using a taxi is much more expensive.

●      There are plenty of museums and outdoor activities that are free of charge; you just need to book in advance for some of them.

●      Take vitamin D in winter if you're not used to a few hours of sunlight. 😊

- Jorge Eduardo
 

Studying in England has been one of the best experiences of my life, not only because of the knowledge I gained from studying at such an important university but because of all the people I met, the experiences I lived and the personal and academic growth that this adventure left me with. When I arrived I didn't know what to expect from my new life, but I was surprised by how different it is from Mexico, from the way of teaching and evaluation, to the food, architecture, climate, and customs!
 

My reasons

I chose Birmingham because of the prestige of the University (it is ranked 80th worldwide in the QS World University Rankings), because of the course they offer and because the language, culture and accent seem incredible to me. Besides, having a master's degree in my second language is a way to show myself what I am capable of while expanding my possibilities when entering the job market.
 

Student life

The campus is beautiful, it looks like a museum. It is huge and has the best technology and infrastructure. I was amazed by everything the university has, from one of the largest libraries to bars and cafes on campus! The library is open 24 hours during assessment period and there are even blankets in case you get cold! Aside from academic activities, there are events all the time, for example, a carousel at Christmas or ice cream vans with free ice cream in the summer.

The way of teaching and grading is different from that in Mexico because the guidelines are different. For example, grades go from 0 to 100 but 70 and above is outstanding, something that personally surprised me. I liked that there are students from so many cultures that each class is made up of different points of view and cultural backgrounds.

There are student societies, which are clubs where you can do activities from academic to religious and social. For example, there is the pasta society, Latinos, Christians, darts, volunteering, comics, pole dancing, karate, rugby, Harry Potter, insulin appreciation, etc. There are more than 300 to choose from!
 

Social life

Birmingham being one of the largest cities in England has thousands of things to do. Living in this city not only helped me experience English culture but opened the door to different cultures. I made friends from India, China, Korea, Japan, Ecuador, and Turkey and even from countries I had never heard of like Tonga. So I could say that studying in England opened the doors to the world for me.
 

Work life

When I arrived I found a job where I was also able to meet many people who became a key part of my life in this country. Since I could only work 20 hours, I had a good balance between student, work and social life.

In this job I learned a lot about how English labour laws and rules work and it motivated me to try to find a full-time job once I graduated.
 

Convenient Accommodation

The accommodation was one of the things I liked the most. I lived in Jarratt Hall, a student residence. The online process was very easy to do. What I found very convenient is that when I booked the place, I answered a personality and interests questionnaire and they placed me with like-minded people.  Thanks to that, I was able to make friends and enjoy my stay with a very low risk of having conflicts with my roommates. As for security, I found it perfect because there is a 24/7 reception, also if something breaks down and stops working, the repair is very fast once it is reported to maintenance.

The location was very convenient because the campus was a 6-minute walk away and the shops, bus stops, gyms, restaurants and parks were very close.
 

Finances

In order to finance my studies, I took out a student loan through FIDERH, a support from the Mexican government. The best thing is that they have an agreement with the University of Birmingham with which they discounted 20% of my tuition fee. Thanks to my part-time job, I was able to pay my rent, food, and extra expenses like social activities and gym membership.

In conclusion, if you are thinking of coming to England to study, rest assured that it will be an unforgettable experience that will help you grow not only academically but also personally because leaving your comfort zone takes you to a world full of possibilities. Studying abroad is not just about learning from books but about discovering new perspectives, growing in ways you never imagined, and making your future and possibilities reach a global scale.

-  Izta
 

While I know that studying abroad is a privilege, I decided to study in the UK because it was my personal and professional challenge to take a year off to improve my skills and professional knowledge but also to finally have the experience of living abroad and improving my English.
 

How did I decide which University to go to and what was my experience like?

At the beginning I was not sure which university or LLM was right for me, so receiving support from Across the Pond was invaluable in helping me to filter and identify the LLM that I wanted and that would suit my needs. So, thanks to their advice and talking to other friends who had also studied in the UK, I decided to study the LLM International Human Rights Law at the University of Essex.

My LLM is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful experiences I have had and one that has marked my life. I was able to study in an international and multicultural environment that allowed me to analyse human rights issues across the world from different perspectives. I was also able to participate in research projects led by academics with knowledge, experience and passion for the subject that allowed me to put into practice what I had learned in the classroom.

Beyond the professional issue and how much I learned in the master's degree, the friendships and support networks that I made along the way (in my experience) are going to last a lifetime and enrich me enormously as a person because they taught me to see and understand other social and cultural realities.

The place where I live is in a town about an hour from London called Colchester and although it is a small town it is very pretty and quiet (although I must confess that the nightlife is not ideal). On the other hand, its location is quite convenient for getting to airports such as Stansted and travelling cheaply to other parts of Europe or taking the train, although somewhat expensive, is sometimes a good option for travelling within the UK.
 

The adaptation process

My process of adapting to living here was fast because I was lucky enough to live in the university residence with people from different parts of the world such as Canada, Japan and India and we formed a nice community. Everyone always respected each other's space. Also, the friendships I made in the LLM program made the adaptation process very easy. The first month I think was the hardest because since English is not my first language, after a while of speaking and focusing my brain on trying to understand all the accents I got tired but after the 2nd month, the brain and the ear adapt, and you don't feel the difference anymore. I achieved the goal of improving my English!

On the other hand, something I found extremely difficult was living through the winter. The light is very short-lived and the rainy and windy weather makes it very difficult, so in winter people are not very active, and you have to watch out for signs of winter depression in order to prevent them by taking vitamin C and D and trying to be as active as possible.
 

Something I wish I had known earlier

There are many issues that I had to see and understand at the same time to live abroad and unfortunately, something that I had to live and learn in this process was that people will try to scam you. While I was looking for a place to live, I came across a person on a Facebook page of the city where I was going to live and she offered me a flat at a very good price and because I was so excited I didn't take enough precaution, so I paid the deposit without signing the contract and then the person disappeared. Fortunately, I didn't lose that much money, but when you're about to study abroad every penny counts. Once I was settled at the University I was able to find out that through the University or the student association, you can always find reliable websites to find a cheap place to live but I didn't have access to them until I was physically in England. Although, as I said before the residence accommodation I ended up living in was very nice and with cool flatmates! 
 

Across the Pond services

Honestly, without the support of Across the Pond, I would never have been able to study abroad. My advisor,  was always in contact with me and patiently explained to me the process of applying to the university, applying for funding, getting a scholarship, a visa, etc. There is a lot of information and paperwork to do. Without a doubt, it is an investment of time, money and energy that is worthwhile but quite difficult to overcome, especially on one's own. I am certainly infinitely grateful for their support.

- Itzia
 

I am Itzel, an international student enrolled in the clinical nutrition program at the University of Nottingham. I have always dreamed of studying abroad, just like you. I understand that the university application process can be overwhelming. That's why I would love to share some personal tips and my experience as a student in England with you.
 

WHAT MADE ME REALIZE THAT THE UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM WAS MY RIGHT CHOICE?

The University of Nottingham is known for its research power as part of the Russell Group. However, I finally decided to choose this university because it ranks among the top five universities in the UK for nutrition and food science. This opportunity to learn from top academics in the field would undoubtedly enhance my skills as a dietitian.

When choosing a university, it is helpful to have at least three options in mind. Take some time to check out and compare the study programs, professors, internships, and practical experiences they offer. Also, think about the city and the student life there. For example, Nottingham is known as one of the best cities for student life in the UK, and that is why I chose to study here. 
 

WELCOME TO THE UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM

I am constantly amazed by the tremendous opportunities the University of Nottingham provides for its students. A wide range of sports clubs and societies are available, from surfing and snow sports to ice hockey, archery, and gliding. I highly recommend joining the "Travel Society," which organizes affordable trips to different cities across the UK. Also, getting a "Railcard" will give you a 30% discount on your travels as a student.

I also admire the university for its unwavering commitment to mental health support and awareness for students. The level of care and consideration provided is genuinely admirable. Additionally, the professors consistently demonstrate a willingness to offer support in all circumstances.

When it comes to my favorite spots on campus, I really enjoy studying at the Hallward Library and George Green Library. If you decide to stay in a university residence hall, you will have free access to the David Ross sports village. You can take spinning and dance classes there, swim, and use the sports climbing facilities.
 

MY LIFE AS A STUDENT IN NOTTINGHAM

Nottingham has tons of green spaces, and the public transport is really great! The people here are super friendly and always make you feel at home. I recommend you to walk around the Sutton Bonington campus, Attenborough, Wollaton Park, or Highfields Park. 

Also, remember to show your student ID for a 10% discount at certain stores. And make sure to download supermarket apps for awesome grocery deals!
 

PERSONAL GROWTH 

It takes courage to move your entire life with just a suitcase. Everything changes in less than 24 hours, and suddenly, you find yourself in a new country with a different language and culture. 

Some days will be more challenging than others, which is when good company becomes crucial. The friends you make in this new place will become your family in this adventure, as they truly understand the migration process, so lean on them. Stay in touch with your family and friends back home to feel connected. You'll be building a new life without realizing it, but you'll now have two places to call home. Embrace the process, allow yourself to feel, and learn from it all. Every experience teaches you something. Most importantly, remember to savor the moment because it all comes to an end, and one day, you will miss trying that new food in the UK, submitting that first project in a different language, or meeting new friends at university. Your dream is no longer just a dream – it's becoming a reality!

Despite all the challenges, studying in the UK has been an amazing experience and the best decision I've ever made.
 

NETWORKING 

Stepping out of your comfort zone always leads you to meet people who share your hopes and dreams. I've met people from over 15 different countries, and it's expanded my personal and professional horizons. Learning from my classmates and friends has been eye-opening and has changed how I see things in life. Plus, it opens up the possibility of working on projects with people from all over the world in the future. 
 

TIPS BEFORE COMING TO THE UK: 

Some final tips I can give you are the following: 

• Contact Across the Pond to find out about scholarship or financing options. They helped me with my entire university application and even shared documents on how to write a CV or personal statement.
• Remember to check out the supermarkets close to your new place and determine which bank options are best for processing your credit/debit card as a student.
• Make sure to create a list of the products or foods you plan to purchase when you arrive in the UK. This will help you stay within budget and save time.
• Find out where you need to go to pick up your BRP and sign up for your health insurance in the UK.
• Once you get to the UK, make sure to find out where your classes are, and if you can, take a little tour around the campus to get a feel for the place.

I hope you find all of these tips helpful. Best of luck with your application! and remember if you have a dream, it's because you have the potential to make it a reality.

-  Itzel