Coming to study in the United Kingdom was a long-standing aspiration for me. I have always been attracted to the country's academic tradition and had an interest in its culture since childhood. In the field of environmental economics, the UK has been at the forefront of global research and reputation. Therefore, both for my professional and personal interests, coming to this country seemed ideal for me.

I chose to study at the University of York because of its reputation in environmental issues and its environmental economics program, which aligned perfectly with what I was looking for. The campus is surrounded by nature, with rabbits, foxes, ducks, swans, and various birds, which makes the stress of exams and deadlines much more manageable.

My advisors from Across the Pond provided me with guidance on university options that matched what I was looking for. They also offered information on scholarships and put me in touch with people at the universities, which allowed me to make the best possible decision. Their support didn’t stop once I was accepted; they also assisted me with legal aspects, preparation, and various types of advice, which made my transition to the UK much smoother and more secure.

I chose my master’s degree because I believe that the urgency of environmental issues is the most critical problem facing the planet. The University of York not only has a prestigious environmental economics program, but its professors have been fundamental in my education. They not only provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to tackle these challenges, but also offered constant support for my specific questions and interests. Having studied economics in Mexico, I was able to deepen my theoretical knowledge and apply it to the environmental field, in addition to acquiring new insights in areas such as climate change science and environmental protection.

When I first arrived in York, the city’s architectural beauty and the warmth of its people made me feel welcome from the start. The research I had done on the city fell short, because York is not only beautiful but also vibrant and full of life. Despite not being as large as other UK cities, the cultural offerings are impressive: museums, galleries, festivals, and, of course, its pubs. It is said that there are more than 365, one for each day of the year. Additionally, due to its location, traveling to cities like Manchester, Liverpool, or London takes less than 2 hours.

There were difficult moments, especially during exams. However, the University of York offers a wide range of support resources, both academic and emotional. I attended voluntary workshops on research, writing, and statistics, which were fundamental to my academic success. Additionally, the campus library, adapted to different study styles, became one of my favourite places to focus and learn.

The diversity and daily interactions allowed me to learn not only about my master’s program and British culture, but also about cultures from other countries. This international experience has broadened my perspective and made me more aware of global issues and the different ways to address them. Moreover, I have made friendships and met people I want to keep in my life forever.

To future students, I would recommend making the most of everything the University has to offer, from academic resources to extracurricular activities. There are societies of all kinds where you can find people with similar interests. The university system gives students a lot of independence to study and research on their own, so managing your time well while taking advantage of the opportunities in York is vital.

Studying in York has provided me with growth not only professionally but also personally. This experience has been one of the most enriching in my life, and I hope to apply everything I have learned to contribute to more sustainable development in my country.

- Eduardo
 

I was looking to do a Masters in Social Media and Social Research because I wanted to learn more about user behaviour on social networks. The University of York is ranked first in Sociology for research impact and fourth in the UK (according to Times Higher Education), and is a member of the prestigious Russell Group. It was therefore always my first choice.

During my time as a student at the University of York, I felt very integrated and welcomed. I was very supported by all the academic staff, the welfare team and the staff at my college (Wentworth). I also had the opportunity to be a course representative for my master's degree and I did a communications internship for my college. The University of York opened up a world of possibilities and new opportunities at the same time!
 

Student Life: York as a university city

The city of York is a university city par excellence. Studying in its two campuses was a wonderful experience because they are places where you connect with nature and the tranquillity necessary to study. 

In addition, the university is very well connected to the city centre in no more than 15 minutes by bus. If you like cycling like I do, it will definitely be a great experience, as you can easily cycle around York safely in its streets and parks. 

York's nightlife is vibrant and lively - did you know that York has 365 pubs? You can definitely enjoy one every day of the year. 
 

How did I get to York? Thanks to Across the Pond 

There is no doubt that my dream of studying in England would not have been possible if it hadn't been for the advice I got from Across the Pond. I worked with them for 4 years where they helped me to find a Master's degree that matched my interests, as well as to apply to the University of York and to receive funding from Becas Chile. 

My advisor and I know how long this journey was because I didn't speak any English, but I finally managed to get the scholarship to study abroad and the level of English that the university required me to study. I will be infinitely grateful to Across the Pond forever. 

- Ana Karina
 

Studying in the UK has been a unique and invaluable experience for me. I would encourage anyone considering studying abroad to take the leap—it’s a decision that has positively shaped my life in more ways than I could have imagined. Despite the cloudy days, the wonderful people I met and the many opportunities to learn both in and out of the classroom brightened my journey.

I chose to live on campus at the University of York, and although sharing a kitchen with seven other people came with its challenges, I don’t regret this choice. Living on campus allowed me to fully engage in university life and take advantage of everything the campus has to offer. From cheese and wine nights at my college to free menstrual health products, a nearby gym, and the beautiful natural surroundings, the campus provides a rich and fulfilling environment.

One of the biggest perks of living on campus was being within walking distance of the main library. The library has become a highlight of my university experience, offering a wealth of resources and a variety of study environments. Whether I need a quiet space, a room with a computer, or a place for video calls or group work, the library has it all.

Student life in the UK is quite different from back home in Brazil. Here, there’s a greater emphasis on independent learning, and the multicultural environment has broadened my horizons. It’s amazing to be able to listen to and learn from classmates from all over the world. Their diverse experiences have enriched my academic life and offered fresh perspectives within the European academic context. I’ve been constantly challenged to think critically and creatively, and the course structure— with its mix of lectures, seminars, and practical work—has kept me engaged and motivated.

Living in York has been a delight. The city may be small, but it’s vibrant and full of character, with plenty of charming spots to explore. In my spare time, I enjoy discovering new parts of the city, visiting cafes, and wandering through the natural beauty around me. The people here are incredibly welcoming—my nerves about arriving in a new country were eased the moment I stepped off the train on my first day, when two York ladies helped me with my luggage and jokingly remarked that it was bigger than me. Their kindness made me feel instantly at home.

As English is not my first language, the transition to studying in English was initially challenging. However, with the support of university resources, like courses offered by the library, and a welcoming community, I quickly adapted. Since my course requires extensive writing, it was incredibly helpful to have this support and to be among people who understand the challenges of pursuing higher education in a non-native language.

Looking back, I wish I had known more about how to cope with the three biggest challenges faced by international students: homesickness, the cost of living, and the dark winter. My advice for handling all of them is to surround yourself with a supportive community. Having friends by your side means sharing the cost of groceries, making plans to spend long winter nights watching movies or enjoying a cup of tea British-style, and having someone to lean on when you’re missing home. These connections help you realize that you’ve found a new home away from home.

- Evelyn
 

I had always wanted to study abroad in order to broaden my academic and personal horizons. When I decided to actually do it, I considered my great interest in the United Kingdom, which led me to seek an authentically British experience. I finally chose York, which has a rich history and culture, as well as excellent connections to other cities and a good balance of quality of life and fun.

I applied for the MA Film and Television Production with Cinematography because of the content of its program and because it has the Screen Skills certification, essential for the professional audiovisual sector in the United Kingdom. In addition, the University of York is recognized worldwide and is a member of the prestigious Russell Group, which was a decisive factor in choosing York over other universities.

The university's facilities are first class, with state-of-the-art equipment that allowed me to develop projects with professional standards. In addition, thanks to agreements such as Fiderh and scholarships from the same university, I was able to access a quality education at a very affordable cost.

From the beginning of the program, I moved to the city centre with my partner, which has been a great decision because despite not living on campus, he enjoyed what the city itself has to offer.

Without a doubt, studying a master's degree at York University has given me the tools and knowledge necessary to achieve my professional goals in the film industry. In addition, studying at such a prestigious university in a country with such a rich culture, and in a city with so much history, has been an unforgettable experience.

- Edgardo
 

Choosing to study in the UK was driven by the country's exceptional reputation for higher education. UK universities are internationally recognized for their academic excellence, with many holding high prestige across various disciplines. At the master’s level, the breadth of cutting-edge programs and the significant research output were particularly appealing to me. The opportunity to learn from leading scholars and engage with the innovative knowledge they produce was a major draw.

Another compelling reason to study in the UK is its vibrant international student community. The UK offers a truly global perspective, not just by immersing students in British culture but by providing an environment where you can interact with peers from around the world. In my master’s program, I had the invaluable opportunity to explore the realities of my field from diverse perspectives, including those from Latin America, Africa, Asia, the United States, and Europe. This diversity of thought has enriched my understanding and significantly broadened my academic and cultural horizons.
 

Did You Receive Any Funding or Scholarships to Study at York?

My opportunity to study abroad was made possible by the prestigious Chevening Scholarship for emerging leaders, offered by the UK government. This highly competitive scholarship draws over 72,000 applicants worldwide each year. The Chevening Scholarship covered my tuition fees, air travel, and provided a monthly stipend, making my master’s studies in the UK financially feasible.

Applications for Chevening Scholarship open annually, typically between August and November. These options make it possible for students to pursue a one-year master’s degree at any UK university, which I found to be a fantastic opportunity.
 

Do You Have Any Tips on Managing the Cost of Living?

One aspect of living in the UK that pleasantly surprised me was the ease with which students can maintain a sustainable and budget-friendly lifestyle. There are numerous student discounts available in shops, charity stores, and second-hand outlets, where you can find high-quality items at a fraction of the cost. I was able to purchase excellent winter clothing at minimal prices, and many universities, including York, offer donation points at the beginning of the academic year where students can pick up essential items like kitchen utensils and clothing for free.
 

What Do You Love About York?

Initially, I wondered if I should have chosen London to experience life in the capital city. However, after a few weeks in York, I realized how much I appreciate the quality of life here. York offers a level of tranquility and safety that is rare in many cities, not only in Colombia but in other parts of the world as well. The friendly locals, coupled with the city’s charming medieval atmosphere, create a welcoming environment where I feel safe walking through the streets at any time.

One of the things I love most about York is exploring its historic streets and discovering its many pubs—there are 365 in total, one for each day of the year! The city’s unique character and vibrant community have made my time here truly special, and I’m grateful for the experience.

- Claireth