Say Yes to Every Opportunity
I moved from Turkey to Manchester to study an MSc in International Business and Management at Alliance Manchester Business School. I wanted to gain an international perspective, grow professionally, and meet people from different backgrounds, and looking back, Manchester gave me all of that and more.
Moving abroad was exciting, but it wasn't without its challenges. Adjusting to a new city, a different academic system, and a routine away from home took some getting used to. What made the transition easier was Manchester itself, it's diverse, lively, and genuinely welcoming, which made it feel like home almost from the start.
One of the best parts of my experience has been my classmates. Studying alongside people from so many different countries has constantly given me new perspectives, both in and out of the classroom.
I also got involved beyond my course. As a Student Representative, I supported my cohort, shared feedback with academic staff, and felt much more connected to the wider university community as a result. I helped organise a Lake District day trip for our cohort, which turned into one of my favourite memories, a great way to bond outside of lectures and assignments. I was also part of the International Society and Day Trip Society, and travelled around the UK with friends I made through them. Exploring new places together made everything more fun and made me feel even more at home in the UK. I also volunteered at the Academy of International Business conference hosted by the University, where I represented Manchester, sat in on genuinely inspiring sessions, and met academics from around the world.
As a Global Futures Scholar, I also took on ambassadorial roles, which added another meaningful dimension to my time here. Attending the celebration organised solely for scholarship holders felt especially special. Meeting other scholars opened my eyes to just how diverse the experience of studying abroad can be, and how successful every journey is in its own way, it was genuinely inspiring to be surrounded by so many driven and accomplished people.
Together, these experiences helped me build lasting friendships, gain confidence, and develop skills in communication, leadership, and problem-solving that I don't think I would have developed the same way back home. Studying in the UK has made me more independent, more open-minded, and more confident in myself.
If I could give one piece of advice to future international students, it would be this: say yes to every opportunity, even the small ones. You never know which experience, friendship, or moment will end up being the one you cherish most.
- Nisa
The Degree I Didn't Enrol In
When I moved from Pakistan to study at the University of Manchester, I thought I knew what I was signing up for. I expected lectures, assignments, exams, and a degree at the end of it all. What I did not expect was that some of the most valuable lessons I would learn would have nothing to do with my course.
For the first time in my life, I was living completely independently. Simple things that I had previously taken for granted suddenly became my responsibility. From managing my finances and organising my schedule to cooking meals and navigating life in a new country, every day presented opportunities to learn. At first, it felt challenging. Over time, it became empowering.
Studying abroad also taught me how to become comfortable with uncertainty. There is no handbook for adapting to a new culture, building a social circle from scratch, or finding your place in an unfamiliar environment. Some of my biggest moments of growth came from stepping outside my comfort zone, whether that meant joining a new society, attending an event alone, or simply saying yes to an opportunity that seemed intimidating.
The University of Manchester gave me countless opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds and perspectives. Through conversations with classmates, group projects, and friendships formed along the way, I developed a broader understanding of the world and the people in it. Those experiences challenged assumptions, introduced new ideas, and helped me grow in ways that cannot be measured by grades.
Looking back, I realise that alongside my academic degree, I earned something else entirely. I became more independent, adaptable, and confident than the person who first arrived in Manchester. My university education has been invaluable, but the personal growth that came with living abroad may be the lesson that stays with me the longest.
When I graduate from the University of Manchester, I will leave with more than a degree. I will leave with a version of myself that did not exist before I arrived.
- Baria
Friends Found in Unexpected Places
Moving to a new country is exciting, but one of the biggest questions international students often have is: how do you make friends? Looking back on my time at the University of Manchester, the friendships I made have become one of the most rewarding parts of my experience.
Many of my closest friends came from places I never expected. Some were classmates I met during lectures, group projects, and study sessions. Others were people I met while living in university accommodation, where students from different countries and cultures shared the experience of starting a new chapter of their lives.
I also made a conscious effort to get involved in societies. I joined the Crochet Society to stay connected with a hobby I enjoyed before coming to the UK. The International Society introduced me to students from around the world and organised day trips that allowed us to explore different parts of the UK together. I also became involved with the Islamic Society, which provided a sense of familiarity and community while living away from home.
What surprised me most was how easy it became to connect with people once I started saying yes to opportunities. Attending events, joining societies, and simply starting conversations opened doors to friendships that might never have happened otherwise.
The University of Manchester is home to students from across the globe, and that diversity is one of its greatest strengths. My friends come from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds, and learning from their experiences has broadened my perspective in ways that extend far beyond the classroom.
- Baria
Manchester Beyond the Lecture Hall
When I first chose the University of Manchester, I was attracted by its reputation, diverse student community, and the opportunity to study in one of the UK's most vibrant cities. What I did not expect was how much the city itself would become a part of my university experience.
Manchester strikes a balance that is difficult to find elsewhere. It has the energy, culture, and opportunities of a major city, yet it remains compact enough to feel accessible. As an international student from Pakistan, adjusting to a new country could have been overwhelming, but Manchester quickly felt welcoming and easy to navigate.
One of my favourite things to do is explore the city on foot. I have spent countless afternoons walking along the canals, especially around New Islington Marina, one of the most peaceful corners of the city. I have also enjoyed discovering neighbourhoods such as Ancoats and the Northern Quarter, each with its own personality, independent businesses, and unique atmosphere.
What truly sets Manchester apart is that there is always something happening. Whether it is a football match, a concert, an orchestra performance, a cultural festival, or a community event, there is always an opportunity to experience something new. These experiences have allowed me to connect with people beyond the university and gain a deeper appreciation for life in the UK.
Studying at the University of Manchester has given me an excellent education, but living in Manchester has taught me just as much. It has shown me the value of exploring, embracing new experiences, and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way.
- Baria
The Lessons No Prospectus Tells You
Before arriving at the University of Manchester, I spent a lot of time researching courses, accommodation, and university rankings. While all of those factors were important, some of the most valuable lessons I learned only became clear after I arrived.
The first lesson was that preparation matters. Manchester's weather has a reputation for being unpredictable, and I quickly learned that having the right wardrobe can make a huge difference. Layers, comfortable clothing, and a good waterproof jacket became essentials rather than luxuries.
The second lesson was to never overlook student opportunities. Manchester is an incredibly student-friendly city, with countless events, discounts, workshops, and experiences available throughout the year. Many of my favourite experiences came from opportunities I discovered simply by paying attention to what was happening around me.
The third lesson was to make use of the UK's excellent transport links. Manchester's buses, rail connections, and student travel options make exploring remarkably easy. Some of my most memorable experiences came from travelling beyond the university and discovering new places across the UK.
Perhaps the biggest lesson of all is that studying abroad is about much more than earning a degree. Living independently, adapting to a different environment, meeting people from around the world, and stepping outside your comfort zone all contribute to personal growth. The University of Manchester has challenged me academically, but it has also helped me become more adaptable, confident, and open-minded. Those are lessons I will carry with me long after graduation.
- Baria
