Why study at Roehampton in London

4 Reasons to Study at Roehampton

I completed my whole undergrad degree at the University of Roehampton. If you’re considering where to study, here are four reasons why Roehampton could be the perfect choice for you:
 

1. A Beautiful Campus

One of the things I loved most about Roehampton was the campus itself. It has a traditional university feel, set in stunning parkland that makes it hard to believe you’re still in London. There are so many spots to relax or hang out after lectures. My favourite was The Hive Café, which serves food and drinks made with local and sustainable produce, some of it even grown on campus! There’s also a student bar that hosts events, a gym and sports facilities, and a modern library filled with study spaces, books, and online resources.
 

2. Societies and Sport

Whether you’re into sports, gaming, or just want to meet people who share your interests, Roehampton has plenty of clubs and societies to choose from. There’s a Disney Society, Scandinavian Society, E-sports Society, and the list goes on. And you can always create your own society or adopt an old one! Joining a team or a society is such a lovely way to make friends, and many of them organise events, trips and socials throughout the year.
 

3. Support When You Need It

University can be a big adjustment, but Roehampton has a lot of support in place. There are wellbeing officers available during the day and college wardens out of hours, so there’s always someone you can turn to if you need help. The careers team runs workshops, helps with CVs, and connects students with employers through Handshake, their online platform. On top of that, every student is assigned an Academic Guidance Tutor to provide advice and guidance throughout their time at Roehampton.
 

4. A Wide Range of Courses

Roehampton offers a great mix of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. You’ll find subjects like psychology, dance, and criminology, as well as business-focused degrees such as business management, marketing, and human resource management. Whatever your interests, there’s likely a course that fits.
 

Final Thoughts

Studying at Roehampton gave me so much more than just a degree, it gave me a community. Between the campus life, the variety of clubs and societies, the strong support systems, and the course options, Roehampton is a place where you can truly feel at home while working towards your future.

- Erica
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study in Newcastle, England

One of the most rewarding experiences of my life

My main inspiration for studying in the UK was my passion for learning English. I was captivated by the UK as a multicultural country that brings together people from all over the world. The education system here is excellent, and I genuinely enjoy the music, gigs, and festivals that are integral to its culture. The stunning architecture and picturesque countryside only add to its charm.

Initially, my academic life presented some challenges due to the stark differences in the education system. I had to adapt to extensive reading lists, which I enjoy, as well as writing numerous essays and my dissertation, a skill I needed to refine because I was not accustomed to it. Although it was tough at first, I eventually adjusted and was able to achieve merit and distinction.

On the personal side, my experience was wonderful. I studied in Newcastle, a lovely town in the northeast known for its kind and welcoming residents. The locals were always willing to help, and I met incredible people from all corners of the globe. Through these interactions, I had many enriching experiences, joined various clubs, and formed lasting friendships. It was truly amazing to hear different perspectives and share those experiences. Even when language barriers arose, our friendships flourished through gestures, smiles, and cultural exchanges.

Studying abroad has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I not only learned about diverse cultures but also gained a broader understanding of the world. I will always treasure my time there and would gladly relive it without any reservations.

Throughout this journey, I discovered much about myself. I came to understand where my morals lie, the distinction between cultural and personal values, and the importance of effective communication. I learned to be open-minded and respectful of different viewpoints, cultures, and issues. I also developed independence, adaptability, and the ability to set boundaries, while recognizing how easily I could accommodate others. A highlight of my time was my wonderful swing dance club in Newcastle, which brought me immense joy. They provided a space for me to express myself freely, whether I wanted to be loud or quiet, and they always made an effort to understand me despite the challenges of accents. I'm so grateful for the friends I made from all over the world.

Transitioning from a big city to a small town was a delightful change. In Newcastle, people paid more attention to one another; I never felt a sense of insecurity, and there was always someone willing to lend a hand. Whenever I walked around town, I frequently encountered familiar faces and would greet them with a smile. This slower-paced lifestyle allowed me to form deeper connections with those around me, making it an enriching experience overall. I owe a heartfelt thank you to dear Monica for everything she did to support me.

Looking back, I also learned how brave, strong, intelligent, and adaptable I can be. Navigating a foreign country is undoubtedly challenging, but if you find luck like I did, you may discover another home. 💛🌟

Reflecting on my experience, I wish I had known more about the employment process in the UK, how to apply for part-time jobs, and how to craft a compelling CV. Additionally, I would have benefited from knowing which websites or resources are available for hiring students, and it would have been helpful to create a more detailed budget.

- Miriam
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study in Newcastle, UK

The professors were excellent

Studying in the United Kingdom was an unparalleled experience. I am an industrial engineer dedicated to supply chain management; mitigating the environmental impact has become my greatest passion. I chose to study in the UK because, in addition to being a leader in sustainable progress, it also represented an immense benchmarking opportunity: to learn first-hand and bring new ideas back to my country, the Dominican Republic, with the hope of paving the way toward a greener future.

Academically, I cannot deny that adapting was a challenge. The professors were excellent, the university’s resources exceeded my expectations, but the grading system was confusing at first. What truly made a difference was the group of friends I built in class. With them, I shared notes, kept track of deadlines, worked on projects, and studied together for exams. That academic community was key in making the year more manageable.

One of my personal goals was to maintain hobbies familiar to my life back home. In the Dominican Republic, I practiced rope climbing, danced Cuban salsa, played guitar, sang, and went to the gym. Upon arriving, I sought to recreate that lifestyle through university clubs, which not only helped ease the initial homesickness but also made it easier to connect with people who shared my interests. On the cultural side, I decided from the very beginning to explore as much as possible. I had the chance to visit London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Leeds, Oxford, Nottingham, York, and of course, my home for the year: Newcastle. If I had to recommend one trip, without a doubt it would be Edinburgh, a magical city that completely stole my heart.

Among the many lessons I take with me, I want to highlight two. The first is understanding the importance of community for both emotional and physical well-being, especially during the colder seasons. For those of us who come from warm climates, winter can be tough, and the temptation to stay indoors is strong. However, my circle of friends encouraged me to go out, make the most of my time, and stay active, something I deeply appreciated. The second lesson is that, beyond academics, the UK has so much to offer: from natural landmarks and sporting events (especially football and tennis) to concerts, themed parties, and a gastronomy as diverse as its people. All of these experiences not only broadened my cultural perspective but also allowed me to feel the spirit of unity that characterizes the country.

Before arriving, I wish I had known just how changeable and intense the British weather can be. It’s not only that it rains, it can rain several times in a single day, often accompanied by winds strong enough to change the direction of your walk. My survival hack was always carrying a hoodie in my bag, ready for anything.

In conclusion, studying in the United Kingdom not only strengthened my academic and professional formation, but also transformed me on a personal level.

- Giselle
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study festival and event management

Studying abroad adds so much more value

My dream was always to study in the UK, and now I'm living that dream. The process was much easier with the help of Across the Pond, who made my life SO much easier by helping me with the paperwork and the necessary requirements. They have experts in different subjects, which is much more helpful, especially with the visa process and various paperwork that can be a bit stressful, but their assistance makes everything easier.

I chose the Master's in Marketing with Festival and Event Management because it combines the best of both worlds. I only found this program at Edinburgh Napier University here in Edinburgh, which is why I came here. The truth is, I never considered studying a Master's in Mexico, where I'm originally from, because studying abroad adds so much more value. Regardless of the academic aspects, the personal learning is on another level. It helps you realise that you are capable of many things, and that you can do many things "on your own," meaning far from family and friends, in an unfamiliar environment, and that makes you mature in many ways. If you're capable of this, you're capable of anything in life.

Napier is a good university with excellent teachers. Everyone always looks for ways to help you and make sure you're okay, especially with mental health issues, something they take into account, which I really liked.

To avoid the hassle of finding private accommodation, I stayed in one of the university buildings, and it was the best decision. They're really comfortable. I had my own space and bathroom. I only shared the kitchen with five other people, but lifelong friendships emerge from there. The building is secure; security personnel come around regularly to check on you. Everyone is very friendly. What I also liked is that there's a laundry room. Personally, I can't live without a washing machine nearby, but that's a matter of taste and personal preference. What I also liked is the central location, which was very close to my campus and the city centre. It's super well connected, with plenty of shops nearby, including the supermarket.

I'm not much of a partyer, but the truth is, the nightlife here isn't anything special. It's not a place for partying, but of course you can find clubs and places to go. I prefer sitting in a pub, having a beer and chatting.

The people here in Edinburgh are lovely; everyone is very friendly and cool. They don't hesitate to help you if they see you need help; they reach out. That really gives this city a huge plus. Speaking of which, I'm from Mexico City, a huge city with millions of people, and being here in Edinburgh, which is also a city, makes a big difference. It's a small city, with few inhabitants, and very quiet, and above all, safe.

Something I also like about this side of the world are the trains. They're very easy to take, and in just a few hours you're already in another city. They're very practical and you can get affordable prices. The bus routes are also super well-designed, and it's easy to get anywhere. The app is very easy and practical.

In my free time, I rested, hung out with friends, went sightseeing, and also started working, where I've met a lot of people. It's a job that doesn't feel like a job, and the good thing is that it allows me to earn an income during my time here.

I've already finished my master's degree, and my graduation is coming up soon, and I'm very excited. I actually plan to stay in the UK, as I'll be applying for a graduate visa, which will allow me to work here for two years.

If you're coming to study in the UK, I recommend you enjoy every step and every process. No matter how stressful it can be, it's all part of the experience. But much of this process is made easier, as I mentioned, thanks to the help of Across the Pond. Everyone is very friendly, they help you with any issue, even the smallest ones, and they respond very quickly. Thanks to them, everything was much easier. They answered all my questions, and it's thanks to them that I learned about this master's degree. I told my advisor, the areas I wanted to study. He sent me a list of all the options in the United Kingdom. I narrowed down a few until I was left with three, but my first choice was the one I studied because it has the two industries that interest me the most.

And well, here I am, writing about my adventure of more than a year, including the time Across the Pond accompanied me throughout the process. I'm sitting at my desk in my new room, having recently moved because my contract in university accommodation ended. I'm happy to have finished my master's degree and excited about graduating. I'm also excited about everything that's coming up in my personal and professional life. I'm ready to apply for the graduate visa and now I'll start looking for a job. I'm sure something great will come of it.

Trust that like thousands of people, including me, this life experience will go incredibly well for you, because it's something you'll be able to tell your children about. Enjoy university, your life away from your home country. Although the distance can sometimes be great, video calls bring us closer to our friends and family. Make new friends, as I'm sure they'll be lifelong. Enjoy the good times and the bad, because everything passes; the good stays in the heart, and the bad serves as a lesson and experience. Enjoy every moment and dare to do anything; life is one.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Jess, my friend who recommended Across the Pond to me, and my advisor for being an excellent advisor. Thank you for making the paperwork so much easier and more understandable.

- Maria Fernanda
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study festival and event management

One must live it to truly appreciate it

My dream was always to live in the UK, and I can say I've achieved it!!! I'm living my dream of living here while studying for a master's degree. It's something I never imagined would happen, but dreams do exist, and here I am, writing these lines from my room in Edinburgh.

Studying a master's degree here is an inexplicable experience; one must live it to truly appreciate it. My words aren't enough to express everything I've experienced. Time flew by; you experience so many things that time is lost. My academic life was incredible. I really enjoyed going to classes, meeting people from all over the world, people with specific dreams and goals, all of whom met in the same classroom. I met a Spanish girl who's been living here for 10 years, an Englishman who came with his girlfriend and both studied for a master's degree, a girl from India, a girl from Turkey who just moved to Edinburgh from Manchester, and a girl who's half Greek and half Scottish. In short, we all came from different countries with different backgrounds and stories, and we found ourselves on this path. Life brought us together, and wow, I can't believe we're about to graduate!

Regardless of your academic achievements, you learn a lot as a person. You discover parts of yourself you didn't know existed. You learn to be strong, capable, and brave. But above all, you mature in a way that wouldn't happen if you stayed in your own country. It's a way of seeing life differently, of opening your mind and heart.

Sometimes the distance can feel overwhelming, but in truth, thanks to technology, this distance is greatly shortened. You'll miss the hugs and cuddles of family and friends, but a video call resets everything.

What I like about traveling and this experience is that you learn about other cultures, a different mentality, and a completely different pace of life. Everything is different, but after a while, it becomes familiar. You're no longer a stranger, you're part of the place. You no longer feel like a visitor, you're moving around like a resident.

Obviously, I'll take with me all the academic lessons, but the life lessons will stay with me forever. Every time I experienced something extraordinary, I thought, "I'm going to tell my children about this," and that excited me even more. I'm living experiences that I'll tell my children as bedtime stories.

What would I have liked to have known before arriving? Oddly enough, nothing. I love the adventure of the unknown and learning about what I didn't know and now know.

- Maria Fernanda
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study Finance in Birmingham

Excellent academic resources

Hi, I’m Juan Carlos from Chile, and a year ago I decided to take a big step. I put my life on hold in Chile, my job, my family and my friends, to pursue a dream and study in the United Kingdom. It wasn’t an easy decision, but I wanted to deepen my knowledge of finance in one of the most renowned countries for it, immerse myself in a completely different culture, adapt to new challenges and discover new ways of seeing the world. That’s how I arrived at the University of Birmingham to study the MSc Financial Management, and I can say with absolute certainty that it has been one of the best decisions of my life.

Preparing my application was a huge challenge. I was working full time and had to balance my responsibilities with the application process. There were moments of uncertainty, but thanks to the support of Across the Pond everything became much easier. Their guidance at every stage gave me the confidence I needed to take this big step. Today, I can say the effort was worth it. I have learned so much, made friends from all over the world and lived experiences I will never forget.

The University of Birmingham impressed me with its vibrant campus, excellent academic resources and the quality of its professors. But the most enriching part has been the diversity, meeting people from different cultures, sharing experiences and learning from unique perspectives. This journey has opened my mind and prepared me for a globalized world.

Before arriving, I was worried about finding accommodation, but there were plenty of options at reasonable prices, which gave me peace of mind from day one. And when it comes to Birmingham, it is a city full of life. As a Latin American, the nightlife is something you cannot miss, there are parties every week and always something new to discover.

If you are thinking about studying in the UK, go for it. There will be fears, but the experiences, friendships and opportunities you will gain will far outweigh any uncertainty. Come with an open mind, enjoy every moment and if you can, rely on Across the Pond, they will make your journey so much easier.

- Juan Carlos
 

Back to Student Experiences
Rent accommodation privatly in the UK

Renting Privately During Your Studies

After living on campus for two years, I decided to try something new and live off campus. It was time to step out of my comfort zone at Roehampton and experience London in a different way. Another uni friend and I started looking for two-bedroom flats, and that turned out to be an interesting experience, to say the least. Finding private housing is a long process with many factors to consider.

The London rental market moves quickly and is extremely competitive. If you find a place you like, you have to act fast! We started searching months before we planned to move, but many flats only get listed a few weeks before availability, which is quite stressful when your current lease is about to end. 

We used sites like Zoopla, Rightmove, and OpenRent to browse listings and contact estate agents or landlords. I reached out to many agents but often didn’t hear back. Sometimes they would only respond when I used my UK number instead of my Norwegian one.

Being an international student definitely made the process harder. Some places don’t accept students, only working professionals. Others only allow families, not multiple sharers. You also need a UK guarantor (a UK resident with a good credit history and sufficient income to cover the rent) if your yearly salary isn’t high enough. If you don’t have a guarantor, you may have to pay up to six months’ rent upfront. 

On top of that, you have to find the best deals for gas, electricity, and Wi-Fi, set up your bills, and manage maintenance issues yourself or with your landlord.

Despite all this, the outcome was worth it. I loved living off campus. We were closer to central London and able to explore different neighbourhoods, something I wouldn’t have done on campus. Public transport options were good, with multiple nearby train stations, and we were close to shops, gyms, and amenities.

Living independently also helped me develop real-life skills like budgeting and household management. We had complete autonomy, set our own schedule, and made all the decisions for our home. Sharing a flat with only one other person was much calmer than living with seven, offering more privacy and fewer distractions.

Another bonus? You can decorate your flat however you like and truly make it feel like home.

Overall, I loved living off campus! It gave me independence, personal space, and a home I could make my own. I enjoyed it so much that I’ve decided to rent privately again for my master’s degree in London

- Erica
 

Back to Student Experiences
Student accommodation London

Living in Student Accommodation at Roehampton University 

If you’re planning to study at Roehampton and considering living on campus, you might be wondering what that’s really like. During my first two years, I lived in Roehampton student accommodation. First in Shaw House on the main campus, and later in Whitelands College.

Both experiences were very different, and I learned a lot about the pros and cons of living in student accommodation. Here’s my honest take.
 

My Experience: Shaw House vs. Whitelands

When I first moved to London, I was assigned to Shaw House in a quite quiet all-girls flat. While the location was convenient (close to lectures and main campus facilities), the flat didn’t suit what I was looking for.

Most of the people I’d met at uni events lived in Whitelands College (about a 15-minute walk from main campus). Whitelands felt like its own little community, and the flats were much more social in my opinion. I moved there soon after, stayed for my second year, and even over the summer before my third.

That move completely changed my uni experience! I met so many more people and had a much more social life on campus.
 

Pros of Living on Campus

  • Choice of flats: Quiet flats, social flats, mature student flats, all-girls flats, or moving in with friends, there’s flexibility to suit your personality
  • Different room options: En-suites vs. shared bathrooms, single vs. double beds, some even with balconies.
  • Close to lectures: No commuting costs or stress. At most, you’re a 15-minute walk away.
  • All bills included: Rent covers gas, electricity, and water, so there are no hidden costs or extra fees. When I lived on campus, we had to pay for laundry services (but I saw on Roehampton’s website that that is now included within your accommodation fees).
  • Support: Each flat has a student rep (second- or third-year student) to help you settle in, plus easy (though sometimes slow) maintenance requests. Additionally, there are College Wardens that work as out-of-hours wellbeing support.
  • Security: On-campus security and student ID access in the evenings make it feel safe.
     

Cons of Living on Campus

  • Room standards: They’re not luxury flats and rooms can feel a bit basic.
  • Fire alarms: They go off easily (steam from showers, cooking, even hairspray!), which often meant being outside at 2am.
  • Living in a bubble: Everything is on campus: classes, library, gym, events. It’s convenient but can feel like you’re not experiencing much of London.
  • Travel into central London: Roehampton is further out, with only one nearby train station about 15 mins away (even further from Whitelands) and a few bus routes. Journeys into central can feel long, and getting back from central after late events often means checking the last trains or relying on the night bus.

When I first moved to London, I thought student accommodation would be the easiest way to settle in, and it was. It made the transition to uni life smoother. Yes, there are a few downsides (like basic rooms and travel times), but overall, living on campus was such a big part of my Roehampton experience. I met friends I might not have otherwise.

- Erica
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study in Birmingham

A unique and unforgettable experience

What motivated you to study in the United Kingdom

After working for six years, and facing the uncertainty of leaving my professional and financial stability, I decided to take the leap and pursue my dream of living abroad. I felt ready to take the next step in my career, as I have always wanted to continue growing and developing both professionally and personally. I was mainly looking for an English-speaking country to practice the language, and what better choice than the United Kingdom? The country where my favourite book and movie series, Harry Potter, was created, and the home of great musicians like Oasis and Dua Lipa, whom I also love. Additionally, there are daily direct flights from here to Chile, so my parents and family could visit easily. Last but not least, the academic excellence of UK universities and their internationally recognised prestige offered an incredible opportunity to develop in a highly competitive and multicultural environment.
 

How was your academic, personal, and cultural life

Everything in the UK has been a unique and unforgettable experience. I won’t lie, academic life is demanding if you want to achieve distinction, but everything at the university has been amazing. From the facilities to the academic quality, everything is spectacular. The university provides high-tech facilities, events, talks, emotional support, and everything is so well organised that you can focus fully on your studies and enjoy your time. On a personal level, it has been a journey of significant growth. Even at 30, I have always been very close to my parents, and being away from my family was something I had to manage. However, communication through social media and WhatsApp today makes the distance much easier to handle. Time has flown so quickly—it feels like I just arrived, and now this journey is already coming to an end. Culturally, I have learned a lot. The UK is a country with a large immigrant population from all over the world. I have friends from India, China, and the Arab world, and it has been amazing. I’ve tried foods I never imagined eating, learned a few words in Chinese and Hindi, and experienced cultures very different from my own firsthand, which has been incredibly enriching. Finally, being here also allows you to travel easily to other parts of the UK and even Europe, which is amazing.
 

What you have learned

My experience in the UK has been incredibly enriching. Academically, it allowed me to approach accounting and finance from a critical perspective, developing the ability to analyse practices I had never questioned before. Personally, living alone abroad taught me to be more independent, to face problems on my own, and to appreciate cultural diversity. Practicing English in everyday life helped me gain confidence and fluency, while stepping out of my comfort zone allowed me to make friends and seize new opportunities.
 

What you wish you had known before arriving

I wish I had known about the StudentBeans app, which offers discounts at many stores and apps of all kinds.

-  Ivania
 

Back to Student Experiences
Study in Leeds, England

My Experience as a Student in the United Kingdom

For a long time, I dreamed of living abroad, and the United Kingdom had always caught my attention. I was drawn to its history, its culture, and, of course, the quality of its education. When I discovered the University of Leeds and reviewed the program of study, I felt it was exactly what I was looking for. However, even though I had the desire and the support of my family, taking that step was frightening. One of the reasons I hesitated to start applying to a foreign university was that I thought the application process would be too complex and time-consuming. That was when I came across Across the Pond, who guided me through the entire application process, answered all my questions, and gave me the push I needed to take the leap. Thanks to them, a dream that once seemed so distant became a reality.

Life in Leeds has been one of the most transformative stages of my life. Academically, I found professors who were very knowledgeable and always willing to help, as well as incredible opportunities: I participated in entrepreneurship competitions where I was a finalist, workshops, and projects that aimed to contribute to the university’s growth. But the most valuable part happened outside the classroom: I met people who became my family during this journey, friends from all over the world with whom I shared unforgettable moments. Thanks to them, I never felt alone. I learned that all it takes is being friendly and overcoming the fear of socialising to open the door to friendships that last a lifetime. Now, as I approach the end of this experience, I am certain that I will keep these friendships forever, and thanks to them, I will always have reasons to keep travelling the world.

Travelling within the United Kingdom was also a very special part of my experience: it was affordable and allowed me to explore different cities, landscapes, and traditions. I fondly remember the gatherings where each of us cooked something typical from our country; it felt like travelling around the world at one single table. At the same time, I had the opportunity to discover English culture up close: the kindness of the people, their openness to share, and the way they value their identity left a lasting impression on me.

From this experience, I take away an important lesson: in life, you have to be brave. Taking big steps is always scary, but it is those leaps that bring us closer to the future we want to build. Living in Leeds taught me that there will always be something new to learn and that the world is as diverse as it is fascinating.

If there is something I wish I had known before arriving, it would be the number of benefits we have as students: discounts on transportation, museum tickets, restaurants, and even trips. It would also have been helpful to know in advance about the social clubs and events organised by the university, as they are perfect for making friends from day one. As a Mexican in the United Kingdom, I discovered all of this little by little, but it would have been so useful to take advantage of it right from the start.

Today, I can say that studying in Leeds not only gave me a quality education but also memories, lessons, and a second family that I will always carry with me. It was the bravest decision I have ever made, and without a doubt, the one that has changed my life the most.

- Laura Susana
 

Back to Student Experiences
Subscribe to Business, Economics and Management
Need Help?
Send us a message