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Going abroad was always on my mind
As the youngest of four siblings, I had watched as they all grew up and travelled away from our small town in Upstate New York to different places around the world. They in turn, came home telling the stories of their time with their host family in Vienna, the views of Prague, and the lights of London. It planted the seed that I too would one day come home and tell the stories of cities I had been, and places I had travelled. My problem was, I just wasn’t sure how.
This dream sat in a dusty drawer in the back of my mind, always as a possibility, but never a reality. I kept thinking I’ll do it after college like my mom had, or make it a trip later in life once I was settled down. Although I wanted to do it as soon as possible, I still didn’t know how. After completing high school, I had decided to stay in the States and attend college closer to home. I told myself I could go abroad through the study abroad options my college had to offer. This played a big role in choosing my school, and I became excited. The dream of going abroad finally seemed in reach.
One evening after a day of aimless scrolling, I stumbled upon this girl who had titled her video ‘Moving to London for my Masters’. I watched it in its entirety and swiped left on her page to see if she had more. I thought to myself, ‘going abroad for all of school? That sound so cool. I hadn’t even thought that was an option, but lucky for me, she had a whole series of pinned videos of her process. She covered everything from, how she decided on London, what the visa process was like, where she was going to live, how to commute, and so much more. That night I went to bed so excited to graduate college, so I could go to London for my Masters. This was two weeks into freshman year.
I quickly came to realize however maybe I didn’t have to wait four years, and I could go for my undergraduate degree. A quick google search of ‘schools in London with writing programmes’ quickly proved me right and the next thing I knew I was staring at a UCAS screen clicking firm on an offer for BA Creative Writing & Journalism from Middlesex University London.
Three months later I was moving into Platt Halls, a 20-minute walk away from Middlesex’s main campus in Hendon. I was nervous, excited, sad, happy, literally feeling all the emotions someone could feel after moving 3,000 miles away from home. My room was cozy, there was a built-in desk and dresser, my own bathroom and a single bed that I had made up with a purple duvet, and floral-patterned pillowcases which I had brought from home, giving the room a feeling of familiarity and comfort. Over the course of the first week, I was still learning how to live away from home, but after literally, running into my flat mate Sadie in the doorway of the kitchen life got a little easier. Other than a place to live, Platt gave me amazing friends which is a testament to living in halls. Sadie quickly became like a sister to me and we did everything together, from going to campus to study, to cooking together in the flat. We figured out together how to top up our TFL Oyster Cards, and even how to register for the GP. Living in halls my first year was a great way introduction to living abroad, and I went on to live in them again my third year as an RA. Which, a story for another time, but was yet again an incredible experience.
When I got to Middlesex campus for the first time, I knew I had made the right choice. Having not been able to tour it before, but only virtually, it was pretty much a sight-unseen sort of situation. The feeling of assurance that it was the right place for me came after traversing campus and navigating the maze of Grove Building, Middlesex’s (incredible) arts building on my way to my first class. I found myself during this experience, very grateful I was not traversing city streets, and has a campus base for classes. Over the course of my three years, campus became one of my favorite aspects of MDX. I loved the closeness of classes, having the quad to catch up with my friends or attend university fairs. Seeing campus bloom into shades of green after a long UK winter. The 24/7 library and free printing were a lifesaver, and the easy access to facilities directly related to my industry such as radio rooms, TV studios and an on campus supplies store, made my learning experience so much more fruitful.
I knew by the end of my first year I loved London. I had gotten to experience life in a way that staying in my home country I never would have been able to, due to a plethora of factors. This city pushed me outside my comfort zone, and although I don’t at all recommend not getting a phone plan set up until January, not many people can say they’ve memorized the tube due to a lack of data.
Three years later, I still know I love London. The opportunities this city offers to students through its free experiences, and incredible amount of history is unmatched. I still am finding new things to do each day that I didn’t know existed the one before. Being able to feel safe, and confident enough to able to show and share the city I have grown to love with those I love around when they come to visit is a feeling so amazing it is almost hard to believe it’s true sometimes.
Going to university in London provided me with so much more than just a rich education, it provided me with a home.
- Lillian
The UK turned out to be the best decision of my life
Embarking on the journey to achieve one's dreams is rarely straightforward. My path to becoming a Physiotherapist was no exception. After several unsuccessful applications to physiotherapy schools in Canada, I faced a crossroads. I had never left home, even during my four years of undergraduate studies, and the thought of venturing abroad was daunting. However, choosing to pursue a master’s degree in Physiotherapy at Queen Margaret University (QMU) in the UK turned out to be the best decision of my life.
The Road to Queen Margaret University
From a young age, I was captivated by the idea of helping others heal and regain their mobility. Physiotherapy was my calling, but the competitive nature of Canadian physiotherapy programs left me with few options. Each rejection letter was a blow to my confidence, yet my determination to succeed never wavered. I began to explore international programs and discovered Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, Scotland. The university's renowned Physiotherapy program and its emphasis on practical experience immediately caught my attention.
The decision to study abroad was not easy. I had never traveled outside my home country, let alone lived alone in a foreign land. The support of my family and friends was crucial as I navigated the application process. When I received my acceptance letter from QMU, excitement and fear mingled in my heart. I was about to take a leap of faith into the unknown.
Embracing a New World
Arriving in Edinburgh was a sensory overload. The city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture were both exhilarating and overwhelming. Queen Margaret University’s campus was welcoming, and the faculty and staff were incredibly supportive. From the outset, I felt part of a community that valued learning, growth, and collaboration.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my time at QMU was the diverse array of clinical placements I experienced. The program’s structure allowed me to work in various healthcare settings, from hospitals and rehabilitation centers to sports clinics and community health organizations. These placements were instrumental in honing my practical skills and provided a comprehensive understanding of physiotherapy's diverse applications.
Building Lifelong Connections
Beyond the academic and professional growth, my time at QMU was enriched by the relationships I forged. The international cohort of students brought together individuals from all corners of the globe, each with unique perspectives and experiences. This diversity fostered a dynamic learning environment where we learned as much from each other as we did from our coursework.
Among these incredible individuals, I found some of my closest friends. Our shared experiences—navigating the challenges of a rigorous program, exploring Edinburgh, and supporting one another through homesickness and academic pressures—created bonds that will last a lifetime. Together, we explored Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, from the Highlands to the Isle of Skye, and immersed ourselves in the local culture.
A particularly special relationship blossomed during my time at QMU. I met my current partner, who was also a student in the Physiotherapy program. Our shared passion for physiotherapy and mutual support helped us both thrive in the demanding environment. This relationship has been a cornerstone of my personal happiness and professional success.
A Journey of Personal and Professional Growth
The rigorous academic environment at QMU challenged me to push beyond my limits. The curriculum was designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring that we graduated as well-rounded and competent Physiotherapists. The faculty’s dedication to our education was evident in their willingness to provide guidance, mentorship, and support.
Graduating from QMU was a moment of immense pride. I had not only achieved my dream of becoming a Physiotherapist but had also grown exponentially as an individual. I am now a Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) registered Physiotherapist, equipped with the skills and confidence to make a meaningful impact in my field.
The Role of Across the Pond
None of this would have been possible without the invaluable guidance and support I received from Across the Pond. Their expertise in helping students navigate the complexities of studying abroad was instrumental in kick-starting my journey. From assisting with the application process to providing insights about living and studying in the UK, Across the Pond was a constant source of encouragement and support. Their dedication to helping students like me realize our dreams is something for which I am profoundly grateful.
Looking Ahead: Relocating to London
With my education complete and credentials in hand, I am now preparing to relocate to London from Edinburgh to begin my professional career. The transition from student to practicing Physiotherapist is both thrilling and challenging. London’s dynamic healthcare landscape presents endless opportunities for growth and development. I am eager to apply the knowledge and skills I acquired at QMU in real-world settings, helping patients recover and achieve their physical potential.
The move to London signifies another significant step in my journey. It is a city teeming with opportunities and diversity, much like Edinburgh, but on a grander scale. The professional networks and connections I have built during my time at QMU will undoubtedly be invaluable as I navigate this new chapter.
Reflections and Gratitude
Looking back, my decision to study at Queen Margaret University was indeed the best decision I ever made. The initial fear and uncertainty have been replaced by confidence and excitement for the future. QMU provided a nurturing environment where I could thrive academically, professionally, and personally.
The friendships and relationships I developed have been the highlight of my experience. They have provided support, joy, and a sense of belonging that transcends geographical boundaries. My partner and I continue to support each other as we embark on our respective careers, and our shared experiences at QMU remain a cherished foundation of our relationship.
In conclusion, moving to the UK to pursue a master’s in Physiotherapy at Queen Margaret University was transformative. It was a journey filled with challenges, growth, and unparalleled rewards. As I prepare to start my career in London, I carry with me the lessons, memories, and connections from my time at QMU. The experience has not only shaped me into a competent Physiotherapist but also a more resilient and open-minded individual, ready to embrace the future with confidence and enthusiasm.
- Natalia
Moving to a new country was totally worth it
Moving away from home is no joke, especially if you are a homebody like me who never imagined making such a big move. Reflecting on my first year, I can definitely say that moving to a new country was totally worth it.
A Unique Academic Experience
During my university experience, I had the pleasure of studying both UK and Canadian law at the University of Leicester in Leicestershire, England. It was a bit intimidating at first, but studying law in the UK provided me with a unique academic perspective that I would have not gained anywhere else. The professors, teaching assistants, and academic staff at the Law School were incredibly supportive and dedicated to helping students like me succeed. They brought a wealth of real-world experience to the classroom and tutorials, enriching the learning experience and preparing us for future careers.
Rapid Personal Growth
Studying abroad and moving away from home matures you quickly, especially if you have never done either before. You develop personal and communication skills, becoming more self-reliant and resilient. A new environment forces you to step out of your comfort zone, navigate unfamiliar terrain, and solve problems independently, even though family and friends are just a phone call away. These experiences boost your confidence and adaptability, essential skills in both personal and professional life.
Let’s Talk About Leicester
Living in Leicester has been a fantastic cultural immersion. According to the 2021 UK Consensus data, Leicester is the most diverse city in the entire United Kingdom! The city’s historical landmarks, such as the King Richard III Visitor Centre and Leicester Cathedral, provide deep insights into English history. Additionally, Leicester’s vibrant arts scene, including the Curve Theatre and numerous local festivals – from Diwali celebrations in November to the Caribbean Carnival and Pride – offers a constant source of inspiration and learning. Every experience in Leicester has broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for the multicultural society I now call my second home. This exposure has made me more culturally aware and helped me develop a global perspective, which is crucial in today’s interconnected world.
Building a Global Network
One of the most rewarding aspects of moving to the UK has been the opportunity to build a global network. As a student in the 2-year JD Pathway LLB Program, I have met like-minded Canadians from across the country who are navigating law school and living abroad like me. Building these connections has helped with networking and professional opportunities. Additionally, networking with professors and industry professionals has provided valuable insights and potential collaborations that I would not have had access to if I had stayed in Canada.
Some Advice for Prospective Students
Before making the move to the UK or deciding where you want to study, here are some tips that I think are crucial to ensure a smooth transition:
1) Thoroughly Research & Apply to Schools: Apply well in advance and pay close attention to application deadlines and entry requirements. Try to understand the specific admission criteria for your program, as they can vary between institutions. If you have any questions about the admission requirements, I’d suggest reaching out to your Across the Pond advisor and the school you are applying for to get some more information about their admission policies.
2) Consider Campus Tours: Virtual or in-person tours of campuses are so important! Many universities like Leicester, actually offer open days or virtual tours that provide insights into campus life, academic offerings, and accommodations – check them out!
3) Familiarize Yourself with the Visa Process: If you are a Canadian citizen, you need to make sure you check out the UK Student Visa Guidelines as they always change. Apply for your student visa early to reduce the stress of packing. Be prepared to submit any additional documentation (if required), which can be time-consuming to collect and review.
4) Prepare Financially: Research tuition fees; this is the biggest thing! One thing that occurs most frequently in the UK is the increase in tuition fees yearly, so be mindful of this! Also research living costs, and available scholarships or financial aid options.
5) Join Online Forums & Social Media Groups: These platforms offer tips and support from those who have already made the move or are in the same boat as you who are going to be making the move. This preparation will help you feel more confident and ready to embrace the exciting journey that lies ahead.
Thank You to Across the Pond!
I want to personally thank the Across the Pond team, especially my advisor, for helping make my transition so smooth. I highly recommend using Across the Pond – their advisors are super helpful, knowledgeable and proactive about details that are easy to overlook. From linking my UCAS application to helping me decide which programs and universities were right for me, my advisor and the Across the POnd team strive to ensure you succeed in your studies. Their services were free of cost so definitely consider getting someone to assist you in your application. It is a scary moment for sure deciding to apply to another country where you may be unfamiliar with admission requirements, visa guidelines etc., but this is where Across the Pond steps in to help make your transition seamless.
A Transformative Journey
Moving away was a tough decision, not only for me but for my parents, sister, and of course my dog. But reflecting on it now, I realize how much I have grown. The unique academic experience, rapid personal growth, cultural immersion, global networking and independence have all contributed to making this journey truly transformative. Leicester has provided the perfect environment for me to grow, learn, and thrive, and I’m confident that you too will find the perfect university to call home soon!
- Samir
An incredibly enriching experience
Studying in the United Kingdom, and particularly in Edinburgh, has been an incredibly enriching experience. This opportunity has allowed me to broaden my personal and professional horizons by immersing myself in an academic environment that challenges me and offers new perspectives. I chose to study abroad precisely to enhance my scientific training and explore new ways of tackling challenges in my field.
I chose the University of Edinburgh primarily because I was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship that made this experience possible. Additionally, Edinburgh’s reputation as one of the top universities for studying mathematics in the UK and worldwide was a decisive factor. University life here is complete and stimulating; the campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, creating an ideal environment for research and study.
I am currently pursuing a PhD in Applied and Computational Mathematics, with a particular focus on electromagnetic theory. My decision to delve into this field is rooted in my passion for using mathematical tools to develop and understand physical phenomena. The integration of these disciplines allows me to approach complex problems from a unique perspective, which is something that truly excites me.
Moreover, Edinburgh is an extraordinary city both for studying and living. Its vibrant atmosphere, combined with a rich cultural life, offers a wide range of opportunities for leisure and personal growth, making the academic experience even more fulfilling.
Finally, I must mention the invaluable support I received from Across the Pond during my application process. Their guidance was constant, and I always had the attention and recommendations I needed from my advisor. Without their help, the process would have been considerably more complicated. Thanks to them, I was able to focus on what really matters: preparing for this exciting new academic chapter.
- Héctor Miguel
MOVING ABROAD CHANGED MY LIFE
Coming to the UK had been my dream since I was a teenager. When I was in high school this agency came and gave a talk about summer abroad programs. Ever since, the dream to come to the United Kingdom settled into my mind. The years passed and I kept on dreaming, until one day I decided I was ready to do it, or at least to try. During the pandemics, I submitted my application to University of Essex.
UNIVERSITY OF ESSEX
When choosing university I valued the openness to international students. And University of Essex offered a very straightforward entry requirements for foreign students, in addition to their worldwide recognized research excellence. My unconditional offer came along with an International Excellence scholarship. All of this, plus the charm of a city like Colchester cemented my decision of accepting the offer.
THE PROCESS
I was doing it all on my own because I thought there was no harm in just trying, but when I got my offer, I realized I needed some guidance. While researching about visa requirements and scholarships I found myself submitting my information to “Across the Pond”. Their service felt like someone holding my hand during the process. My advisor was quick and helpful with answering my queries and they may or may not know they relieved my concerns and anxiety more than once, for which I am forever grateful. The advice is not limited to documentation requirements only but it also provides a lot of useful information about what to expect in your daily life in the UK. Needless to say, Across the Pond prepared me with all the tools I needed to embark on my dream.
COLCHESTER
I needed a place where I could host my parents when they decided to visit so I started looking through online platforms and enquiring on my own. Luckily I came across this two bedroom flat located equally close to university as to town centre.
Colchester is a very beautiful small city that combines the calmness of the country side and the broad spectrum of opportunities given its closeness to a big city like London.
After settling into my new home and exploring the city, the date finally arrived to start my studies. And so my life in the UK began, Colchester became my home and I can’t be happier about it. I love the easiness of walking to the castle park on a sunny afternoon or staying at home and cozying up to a film on a rainy day. On my free time I’ve had the opportunity to visit the local theatre which offers a wide variety of shows throughout the year, I’ve been to the golf club to practice a little just for fun, visited the cinema, some pubs and restaurants. In summary I’d say Colchester has everything you need and more.
STUDENT LIFE
My course was a conversion course, meaning it is designed to give you all the basic knowledge that a graduate of a Psychology degree should have, but in just one year. Many of my coursemates came from different educational backgrounds, and since I had a degree in Psychology, it gave me a slight advantage in being familiar with some concepts, theories and methods.
One of the main differences I can point out between the educational programs in Mexico and the United Kingdom is the number of coursework. I remember having one coursework per module, per week, to say the least, while studying my degree in Mexico, whereas in the UK we had barely one or two per module per term. I personally feel that there is more room for real critical thinking when students can focus on just producing a good essay instead of being constantly overloaded and overworked trying to meet deadlines for multiple tasks.
For my dissertation I went into a more cognitive field, carrying out a real experiment using equipment and a laboratory provided by the department with the help of my supervisor. I used an eye-tracking device and collected visual field data from all my subjects as they walked around campus to then code the recordings and measure how many times they looked at people's faces in order to study their relationship with anxiety.
SOCIAL LIFE
Thanks to university I had the opportunity to meet people from many different countries, England (of course), India, Vietnam, Japan, Korea, Italy, France, Spain and many more. I also joined up with some fellow Mexican students and made some very good friends with whom I explored London and all it has to offer. In my free time I like to travel, going to concerts and festivals in different cities, which has also helped me meet more and more amazing people. I also love going to museums, the theatre, exploring themed parks and recently watching sports like horse racing and tennis. Like I mentioned, the UK has a lot to offer no matter what your interests are, you can always find something.
LANGUAGE BARRIER
There is no better way to test not only language proficiency, but also cognitive flexibility, resilience, and problem-solving than moving abroad. No matter how confident or accustomed you are to being bilingual, studying and living abroad is always a challenge and requires daily effort and I found studying and taking classes in English to be scary at first, but the more I was exposed to the language, the easier it became. At first I had to really focus on what the professors were saying to be able to make it make sense in my mind, but after a couple of days I felt like I was understanding everything as if they were speaking in Spanish.
Don’t be afraid of asking "what does that mean?” Or "I'm sorry, can you repeat that?”. The only way to learn is by practicing.
WHAT ELSE TO KNOW?
I don't think I will ever find enough words to fully describe how amazing this whole experience was. All I can say is that the memories I’ve made are invaluable. On the other side, I guess I never thought much about the challenges I could face like being ill with no one to care for me, spending my birthdays by myself or watching how my loved ones go on with their lives and having to watch from a distance. It has its ups and downs but I still think that coming to study and live in the UK was the best decision I’ve ever made.
Across the Pond gave a seminar regarding travel preparations and things to know and I would like to share some useful tips I have gathered from both these seminars and own experience.
Don’t overpack. I have seen so many people struggling to travel from the airport to their accommodation because they have a lot of luggage with them, so my advise would be to prioritize the things you will definitely not be able to find immediately after your arrival to the UK. Pack only the essentials and figure out the rest later.
Take the time to study the customs. Life in the UK tends to be fast-paced and calm at the same time. Don’t stand in the middle of the way, try to always keep to the right on escalators, respect the queues and remember everything is closed by 4 pm on Sundays.
Getting home from the airport If you plan to take a train from the airport, I would recommend getting a railcard in advance. It can be done online and it saves you 1/3 of the total fare of your journey. Always keep an eye out for the disruption/strike updates, you can do it by visit national rail’s website. You don’t want to be jet lagged and stuck in the airport. Alternatively, national express coaches from the airport and they have connections to everywhere in the UK.
Banking. If you wish to open a bank account, most of the regular banks require you to be living in the UK for 3 years before being able to open one. Alternatively, virtual banks like Monzo and Revolut are more accessible and equally reliable.
SIM card. Your foreign data plan may or may not charge your extra when using it in the UK. I recommend investigating this with your provider before coming and once here, you can get a UK SIM card. Nothing wrong in wanting to keep your home country’s phone number but having a UK one can facilitate many things.
Be wary of your surroundings. I have found the UK to be a very safe country, however, remember to always be aware of your surroundings, you can never be too careful.
- Astrid