There is no place like London!
When I decided to apply to grad school, I basically had no idea what I was doing or how to start the process. I did, however, know that I wanted to go somewhere in the UK. I have always been addicted to travel and was (and still am) a self-proclaimed anglophile, so it seemed a natural choice to study in England.
I cannot express enough how lucky I was to find Across the Pond. They walked me through the process of admission and were there every step of the way with advice and answers to my (often incessant) questions. My assigned advisor was so helpful and supportive. He was an invaluable resource in completing my applications and visa requirements and was constantly encouraging and patient with me through my freak-outs. I so appreciate the personal one-on-one attention that Across the Pond provided. It still felt that I was responsible for my own applications, but that I had someone in my corner to back me up. With his help, I was accepted into all the universities that I applied to through Across the Pond. Thankfully, they didn’t just leave me there but helped me with my decision of where to go and even provided advice and resources in obtaining my student visa.
I am now in the final term of my MA in History of Warfare at King’s College London. I am incredibly happy with my choice to study here; the experience has been priceless. I chose this program because it was so unique and specific to my interests. It also helped that the War Studies department at King’s is world-renowned and offers talks and seminars from the foremost scholars, diplomats, and innovators around the world. I have loved the classes that I have taken this year, especially a module dedicated to the study of Propaganda, which was fascinating and incited the most interesting discussions and debates. My only complaint is that the year has flown by. I currently have one essay left, and then just my dissertation (yikes!). It has been academically stimulating and challenging, and, more importantly, I have met amazing, interesting people that have become good friends.
Also, the opportunity to live in London tipped the scale towards King’s. It may be expensive, but there is no place like London. The city is steeped in history and culture, it is a perfect jumping-off point for travel around Europe, and there is always something to do. Whether you’re hunting for the best bowl of ramen (Shoryu, Regent st.), visiting a museum (my personal favorite is the Imperial War Museum), or just hanging out at your local pub, there are endless possibilities for whatever your interests. I love the public transportation here (especially coming from Los Angeles), and even the tube at rush hour cannot dampen my enthusiasm (mostly).
Definitely get a student Oyster card, as you get discounts on rates. I get a monthly travel card, which isn’t cheap but allows me unlimited trips in most of London. If you get tired of the city (or just need a break) you can take a drive in the country, go camping by the sea (I just got back from Woolacombe, which I highly recommend), jump on the Eurostar to Paris, or book a cheap flight pretty much anywhere. I’m planning my next trip to Dublin, and I can’t wait!
The best advice I could give anyone coming here is don’t be afraid to ask for help. The old adage “you get out what you put in” is a dominant theme of the British system. The resources and opportunities are there, but you have to put in the effort to find and take advantage of them. Sometimes it just starts with an email, a phone call, or a question, but you have to take the initiative. Other than that, don’t take anything too seriously. You may have to accept that you won’t have peanut butter and truly sunny days are rare, but blissful, occurrences. Learn the slang, make mistakes (be careful with using the word ‘pants’), and mind the gap. There will be visa issues, travel crises, or all-nighters for papers, and yes, you will survive them. Ask for help, build your support network, and always, always have fun.
- Hannah
London is amazing!
Having never been to the UK (or even out of the country) before, the first couple of weeks were pretty tough. Fortunately, my uni had a Freshers' Week fair the first week or two, which had all sorts of events to help you get settled and meet new people. There were free student tours around the city, to help you get acquainted with your surroundings (and figure out where basics are located – grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.). I was given university accommodation, which turned out to be extremely helpful, as I was able to easily meet other students and save money on housing. One of the first things you want to do when you arrive is to set up a UK bank account. I went with NatWest, but Barclay’s has a good reputation as well, and they have locations all over the UK, making it easy to withdraw money anytime. I also got a basic UK phone, as my US phone was still locked. I did pay-as-you-go for the first term, then switched to a monthly plan, as it was cheaper in the long run. I went to Carphone Warehouse, and they helped me set up my UK phone and get me started. Once you have a UK SIM card, it’s easy to switch to different cell phone providers, depending on who has the best plan for you. Get acquainted with your local Tesco or Sainsbury’s. These grocery chains offer inexpensive food/toiletry items and are on nearly every street corner in London. My dormitory was self-catered, so on my first night, I ventured out with a fellow student to the nearest Tescos and bought basic cookware and food items.
WHAT IS THE CITY LIKE?
London is amazing! I come from a small town on the southeast coast of the US, so London was overwhelming at first. There are a lot more people, who seem to be out all the time (perhaps why they call London the ‘city that never sleeps). I’ve noticed that people tend to dress a bit nicer, even just to go grocery shopping. Public transport is extremely safe in London, albeit expensive. I recommend getting an Oyster card when you first arrive, along with a 16-25 Student Railcard. You can sync the cards together at many tube stations and save up to 30% on public transport (buses, trains, and tubes). Oyster cards are pay-as-you-go, which you put money on (top-up) as you need to, and are much cheaper than buying tickets each time you travel. There’s always something to do in London. I set up my UK bank account with NatWest, which gave me a free Tastecard, which offers discounts at restaurants all over the city, once activated online. You can also purchase a Tastecard online though. Many places around London (including shops and restaurants) offer student discounts, so be sure to have your student ID whenever you go out. You can often get half-priced tickets (or cheaper) at theatres/cinemas with your student card.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR UNIVERSITY?
I chose King’s College London primarily for the MSc program, but also because it’s highly ranked (top in the UK and the world). The location (central London) was also a big factor in my choosing. A leading university in one of the most historic and popular cities in the world? I’ll take it!
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
When I’m not reading for lectures or attending lectures, I work out at the local gym on campus. I also go out with friends each week. Sometimes we try a different restaurant, other times we catch an afternoon film at the cinema for a discounted price with our student IDs. Just the other day, I had a three-hour break between lectures. Being so centrally located in London, a few of us were able to walk to the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square from campus. Most of the museums in London are free entry, with maybe £1 for a map, so it’s convenient and inexpensive to get a bit of culture in from time to time. Many pubs have weekly trivia nights for £2 a person, which a few of my flatmates attend every week and I go along when I have time. You can also join societies and organizations through the university. I joined the Christian Union on campus and I meet with them every week. We often go out to eat after our meetings at varying restaurants each week. I also joined the UNICEF society and volunteer once a week at a local primary school. Through the Christian Union, I went on a ‘weekend-away’ trip to Ashford, Kent, in the southeastern part of England. For only £35, it included train ride there and back, food, and housing from Friday night to Sunday afternoon. Sometimes joining a society can be a great way to inexpensively see more of the UK.
ANY ADVICE TO NEW STUDENTS?
Although the jet lag will leave you exhausted, and you might be feeling homesick, get out that first week and socialize! Some of my closest friends that I’ve made here, I met the first two weeks. Being around other people will help with the homesickness as well. Although people may not show it, plenty of them will also be missing home. Feel free to talk to people about it, as you’ll be surprised how many of them feel the same way. Keep track of your money! Try to pay with cash to avoid any hidden card-user fees. Have a weekly budget so you don’t overspend. King’s College London has advisors specifically for monetary issues, so feel free to meet with them if you have any concerns. Be aware of your surroundings. London is a relatively safe city, but there’s always a risk wherever you go for crime. Be mindful of walking around late at night alone. Stick to main streets that are well-lit. NEVER take an unmarked taxi. – these are extremely dangerous and you run the risk of being assaulted. Always book your taxi in advance through a licensed company. Remember that you’re here for your studies, and not just for a good time. That being said, take advantage of the opportunities you have while here. Make sure to see the famous sites, try the hip restaurants, go see a play. Check out internships in London – there are loads of them, and they look great on a resume.
MY EXPERIENCE WITH ACROSS THE POND:
I had been attempting to apply to quite a few British universities when I stumbled onto Across the Pond's website. I got an email within a day of signing up for more information. My advisor was wonderful! She was always quick to answer any questions I had regarding the application process. Applying overseas can be stressful when you’re going at it alone. Having a personal advisor helped me make sure my applications were correct and well documented. The visa application process can also seem like one of the biggest obstacles to studying overseas. Across The Pond held multiple online video seminars, which helped me better understand how to accurately apply for a student visa. I highly recommend Across the Pond to anyone interested in studying in the UK.
- Amy
Loved every minute of my experience
I first discovered Across the Pond when a close friend decided to attend Durham University. I asked how he made the decision and how he would go about making it happen. That’s when he told me he was receiving help from the Across the Pond program and how much it had helped him. I had always dreamed of studying abroad myself and had just recently completed my undergraduate studies, so when he told me this I jumped on my computer and got on the website, within 24 hours I was chatting with my incredibly friendly advisor.
She talked me through every step of the process; even if I e-mailed her late at night or during the weekend she’d somehow get back to me extremely quick. Even though I had my heart set on England, I accepted an offer in Australia instead. Once I started my program there I realized I had made a mistake and just had to go with the program I’d originally loved in London. I once again contacted my advisor and asked if it was too late and she reassured me I could still make it happen. Within 48 hours of making my decision, I had already, with my advisor's help, sent in my late application to my chosen school in London. Her support was more than I could have ever bargained for and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank her from the bottom of my heart.
Once I arrived in England it was extremely easy to get settled because I made the decision to live in the dormitories. I attended Kingston University, located a mere 15-20 minutes from central London. I received my Master of Arts in Publishing and loved every minute of my MA experience! Kingston itself is a great place to live, although be warned the cost of accommodation can be quite high! This being said I suggest seeking accommodation a few months prior to arrival. Food and nightlife are not far from US prices and almost cheaper in comparison. If you feel like you’ll need a job to cover the costs there are plenty of places to apply, as Kingston is a massive shopping area.
During my spare time, I traveled to Ireland, Sweden, Austria, Copenhagen, and places within England. It was extremely cheap to travel in Europe and during my spare time from classes I had plenty of opportunities to explore London, which is and will always be my favorite city in the world!
- Marina
Across the Pond was a great resource
Across the Pond was a great resource to have during my application process to Kingston University. I had started my search for a master's program and university several months prior to discovering Across the Pond, and I found it difficult to know which programs were reputable and worthwhile. My advisor was very helpful in answering the questions I had about the universities they have relationships with, and I am so far very happy with my final selection.
The great thing about Across the Pond is they provide support throughout the entire process, from application to visa. The UK functions differently than the US, and I found it helpful to have a contact here who answered my questions promptly and who was familiar with how we operate in the US. I felt good knowing I was receiving support from both the university and Across the Pond, and that made me confident that everything would go through successfully.
I highly recommend getting in touch with Across the Pond if you are at all interested in studying in the UK. The advisors are a valuable resource who understand both countries and all of the components necessary to go to school in the UK.
- Breanne
London is a great city to live in as a student
I am studying at Middlesex as an exchange student thanks to the ERASMUS+ programme. I was given a list with universities to choose from for the exchange by my home university, and Middlesex stood out to me for three reasons. One is the location. It had always been a dream of mine to live in London for some time, and the exchange seemed like the perfect opportunity for that. London is a great city to live in as a student. There is always something to do or see. And while living here can be a bit expensive, there are lots of student discounts that make it more affordable, and Middlesex’s MDXworks not only helps students find part-time jobs, but even has flexible employment opportunities itself.
My second reason is the university’s diversity. Much like London itself, Middlesex is home to students from various nationalities, and I had hoped that this would make me feel more welcome. My expectations were definitely exceeded. With their International Orientation, Middlesex made it really easy for me to find friends and settle in right from the beginning. And when classes started, the other students in my course as well as the staff made sure I felt accepted.
Thirdly, I found the course particularly intriguing. At my home university, I study German and English Philology, which is quite theoretical. My Middlesex course, Creative Writing and Journalism, however, promised a very different approach. The teaching is much less formal than what I am used to and more practical – instead of writing only academic texts, I am mostly graded on the creative content I produce. Since I had never really done any proper creative writing and knew only very little about journalism, I was a bit worried at first. But my classmates and teachers were incredibly helpful, and having the Learning Enhancement Team there to help me is also really reassuring. Being at Middlesex allows me to learn skills and gain knowledge I could not have gotten otherwise, and I am convinced that my time here will prove very useful for finding a job in the book publishing industry after I finish my studies.
- Sandra
