Image
Studying abroad – A dream come true
A decade is a long time to wait, but studying abroad in the UK was everything I hoped for and more! I have been dreaming about it since middle school, and while it took almost ten years to make it happen, it was absolutely worth it. My younger self could never have imagined the extent of joy it would bring. Studying abroad is not only a great addition to your CV, but it also allows you to meet some amazing people you never would have met otherwise.
The final decision to move
For me, the decision to study abroad was easy, what held me back was timing and place. When things (FINALLY) lined up, I had decided on a course (Business Management with Entrepreneurship) and a location (Edinburgh), all that was left was getting ready for the move. Now don’t get me wrong, there was a lot of stuff to do, visa application, funding application, accommodation application, etc., a lot of applications basically, but all the worry and the nervousness seemed so small once I got off the plane and made my way into the city centre. All the thoughts that were left was: “I actually did it”, “wow”, and “this is amazing”. I fell in love with the city as soon as I left the airport, and that has not changed yet. Once I settled into my accommodation, I was ready to explore what the city had to offer.
Edinburgh has it all
It doesn’t matter if you love nature or city life (or perhaps both), Edinburgh has the perfect balance of it all. If you are interested in being close to the city centre but are worried you will miss going on hikes or connecting with nature, don’t worry. You have places like Calton Hill, The Meadows and Arthur’s Seat, all close by. And if you are wanting to have a good night out on the town, then Cowgate is filled with pubs, bars and clubs. If travelling is on your mind, you can go on day trips to Glasgow, St. Andrews or even Manchester, and you can also get a 4-hour train to London.
The good, the bad and the ugly
Now, I have already mentioned a lot of the good stuff: meeting new people, good experience, looks good on the CV, and if you choose Edinburgh specifically it has a lot to offer. Now for the bad and the ugly: just like back home, there will be bad days. Some days you will feel homesick, you’ll realise that time flies by for those at home, your little brother grows up even if you’re not at home. If you’re like me and English is not your first language, you will have days where speaking English is a hassle, or some classes seem extra hard because of the language. However, there are solutions to all these issues: call home as often as you need to, visit home whenever you can, take a break from consuming English, and if things get tough, remember that it is ok to reach out for help, whether it’s to a friend, family or even your university. It might be a scary journey you’re about to set out for, but I promise you, it is worth it! And if there is one thing I can recommend no matter where in the UK you decide to study, it is to immerse yourself in the culture, make the best of the time you have there and be open to trying new things, that is how you create memories for life.
- Siri Marlene
Student Accommodation in the UK
Where do you live when studying abroad? Do universities in the UK offer student housing? How much does student accommodation cost? Did you know that as an international student, you are guaranteed on-campus accommodation for the first or all your years studying at most of our UK universities? You will need to apply by the housing application deadline, and of course the best student accommodation in the UK goes first - so that is a good reason to apply early! There are several different student accommodations, price levels and facilities to choose from!
Most students choose to live on campus in their first year. This is social and a fantastic way to get to know students from all over the world! After that, most students choose to move into privately rented accommodation with their new friends. We recommend everyone to live in university accommodation in their first year, as it is a great way to get to know other students (and not just those on your degree).
Learn more about the different options, on-campus accommodation, how to arrange private accommodation and everything you need before applying for student accommodation in the UK via this webinar!
Image
Visa for European Students who want to study in the UK
Do you want to study in the UK and are wondering if you need a visa? Maybe you have applied to British universities already, or are considering applying to university in London or elsewhere in the UK, but would like to know more about the UK student visa for European students? This webinar recording is about the UK Student Visa for students who will be starting their studies at a British university and are from European countries. We cover everything regarding the CAS, the application process, cost and other practicalities worth thinking about when applying for a student visa.
Did you know that all non-UK students need a visa to study in the UK? How much does a student visa cost? Is it difficult to get a student visa if you want to study in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland? For most European students in the UK, a student visa is now a fact.
After the UK left the EU, student visas have now become a reality for the vast majority of international students. It is therefore important to familiarise yourself with this process as early as possible, so that you are well prepared when the time comes to submit an application for a student visa. In this webinar recording, we will go through useful information about student visas, when to apply, what you need for the application, costs, and other tips and tricks that can make the process easier. This webinar is suitable for those who have already applied, those who have accepted an offer, but also those who are considering studies in the UK and want to know more about the visa process.
We have the information and tools most people need to be able to go through the visa process without the need for individual follow-up/advice beyond the general information and guide from us. Remember that Across the Pond cannot provide individual advice on your visa application, only certified immigration staff can. In this webinar recording, you will learn about a number of important points that are good to be aware of when you familiarise yourself with the visa process.
Edinburgh is the most magnificent city
I would have found it impossible to have found my graduate program without Across the Pond. I was given a full, detailed list organized by course, geographic location, and even reputation. It was so organized, and I had someone to answer every single question along the way. I am in awe that I was not sent a bill! It's one of the best services I have ever used. The admission process, acceptance, decision, scholarship, and visa process were all explained to me in the clearest way possible. I would have been absolutely lost without their guidance and support.
Edinburgh is the most magnificent city. It truly is a fairy tale. I mean, how often do you live in a beautiful city that centers around a castle? The city and universities are filled with students from every corner of Europe and the globe. You'll find your weekend dodging raindrops on walking tours and exploring the nightlife, as well as spending quality time with your mates over pints in the coziest of pubs. Despite the rain, I never even bought a bus pass because I enjoyed walking into charming areas to explore the Scottish capital.
My master's degree has been better than some vacations. On weekends, I have gone to underground clubs in London, weekends in Paris filled with museums and crepes, skiing the Swiss Alps on empty off weeks, and blending in with the rich in Monte Carlo and Cannes. Plus, with everyone in my program, I now have places to stay all over Europe. The fun has just begun!
- Dylan
The support I received was amazing
The appeal of the city of Edinburgh spoke to me. I studied abroad while attending a university in Philadelphia, hoping to gain a broader horizon. While on exchange, I noticed just how different UK universities are and found I preferred them. I chose to transfer from my American university to study at Edinburgh Napier University for the practical/work-related skills they offered, the one-to-one sessions I was able to have with my lecturers, and the warm environment the university provided.
What I love about Edinburgh Napier are the facilities available for my course. I appreciate the camera gear and studios available to film students; we are encouraged to use them freely and routinely. The support I received as a foreign student was amazing - I received help with finding flats, finding a doctor or a bank, and have attended academic help sessions where I was taught how to reach British writing standards.
Edinburgh is a university city through and through. I felt at home the moment I landed, thanks to finding it easy to make friends. There are so many places to see and activities in which to take part in Edinburgh. Because I come from a big city, I found getting around Edinburgh pretty easy. Still, I found it difficult to adjust to living on my own for the first time.
Because there's so much to keep busy with in Edinburgh, between university and work and volunteering, I found it easy to stay motivated. Each job or study-related opportunity is a chance to meet new people and explore new parts of the city.
One day, I plan to own a production company where I can direct my own films. Edinburgh Napier has allowed me to continually create films and work with new people, which is exactly what I need to suit my career plans.
I'm able to use industry-standard technology and editing labs. I love being able to use the equipment so much that I'm considering doing my master's at Edinburgh Napier University.
- Corrine
