Choosing Oxford Brookes

My decision to enrol at Oxford Brookes was a strategic one. I have family living in Oxfordshire, and this would make my time in the UK much easier, as I would be guided and helped by people who would be nearby.

Additionally, a joint honours programme was offered, and so I enrolled for the Business Management and Sociology course. A Level results were not as good as I had hope and so Brookes offered me a place in their Foundation programme, and so instead of coming in September, I arrived in the UK in the winter semester in January.
 

Flying into darkness

I arrived around 2 in the afternoon, and by the time my uncle had driven me from Heathrow to Oxfordshire, the sun had already set. This was the first shock to my system. I had been to the UK before on a summer school trip so the chilly weather was no surprise, but being in pitch darkness just after 4 in the afternoon certainly was. Coming from Zimbabwe and having lived in Zambia, I was accustomed to the sun setting slowly between 5.30-7.00pm. My relatives assured me this would not be the case for too much longer and that spring was just a few months away.

I went into Oxford City Centre a few times in the week before Freshers’ Week, getting used to the public transport system and learning where all the shops were, as well as my route to the campus. So, by the time I was full registered for my program, the idea of a 4pm sunset became less foreign, although it still took me off-guard well into February.

Spring came around a bit slower than my family had stated, but when it did arrive, I enjoyed observing the spring blossoms gradually blooming. The UK is stereotypically grey and miserable, particularly when it rains, but beauty can always be found by eyes that seek it.

I had also met people from many different cultures and eaten from different foods and began to appreciate the UK’s cultural diversity. The sun was setting a little bit later and so I got to see how colourful a sunset can be in Oxford.
 

Adapting to more Technology

The technology in the UK is far more advanced than in Southern Africa, and so my next task was getting used to being on a laptop or phone for a few more hours than I was accustomed to, but for any Gen Z student, this is not difficult. Observing the efficiency of new programmes helped me organise my university work more effectively.

Being an international student means not only learning the content of your degree, but learning a new culture and a new technology and data set. While this can feel overwhelming for some, I look back on this incredible feat and admire how wide my skill set is compared to the average person. This gives international students a unique strand of resilience and adaptability, as well as ability to multitask.
 

Re-Freshed

I attended Fresher’s Fair again as a first-year student, and this felt like a refresher because I was meeting a completely new set of people, many of whom would be my friends for the next three years. However, I was more knowledgeable of the campus already, so I quickly became known to be the right person to ask certain questions. I had enjoyed the International Relations module in my foundation programme so much that I changed my course to BA (Hons) International Relations and Business Management.
 

Academic Support leading to Success

I was quickly noticed by my lecturers as being very well engaged in the material and unafraid to speak in class. It can be intimidating to engage in conversation with a lecturer in front of a room of over a hundred students, but this is easily overcome by following the advice to actually do the reading before class! First year may not count towards your final grade, but reading as much as possible in between parties and socials will help you get ahead in second year as well as third.

By the time your first assignment has been handed, the reality of the need to read kicks in and prompts you to develop a good studying routine. This slowly becomes second nature before your second assignment, and becomes more refined in second semester.

In second year, the readings got bulkier, but this was easily conquered by the encouragement of friends to go to the library together, read diligently and reconvene to discuss in a few hours before heading for lunch or for a quick drink before heading home. By second year, we were all more confident to speak to our lecturers and had meeting with them on our concerns more regularly. Support from friends and lecturers gets you through the long hours of research for your dissertation and keeps your mind at ease in stressful periods.
 

Societies and Unions

I joined a number of societies in my first and second year, which exposed me to different activities and even more friends. When the Student Union elections ran, I applied for the Women’s Officer role, which I got. This was a challenging role, but representing students, while completing third year, was a rewarding experience.

Societies get you out of your room, which is essential for your physical and mental health. It is also another channel to gain more knowledge about the UK which is important as different stories shape different approaches. These are spaces where you can share your struggles as a student and come together to find solutions. As an international student, you also gain valuable knowledge from both other international students and local students about navigating life in the UK, particularly as you get closer to entering the job market full time.
 

Masters’ Degree

I enrolled to continue studying International Relations at Master’s level. My love for the subject grew the more I read, and my understanding deepened in ways I cannot thank my lecturers enough for. Getting into the field in the UK may be difficult for international students. Some may find more ease at home, or may equally be met with a different set of challenges back home. Regardless, studying this subject at Brookes has opened up my mind to several new possibilities for a better world where people cooperate and move towards sustainable development while pursuing the ultimate humanitarian goal of world peace.
 

Part-Time work

International students are only allowed to work for 20-hours during term time, as per visa regulations, and so I found an agency catering job to make some money during the summer. This was a great opportunity to go to new places in Oxfordshire and learn more about the food culture here.

I did care work, and then gradually pivoted into receptionist and tour guide work. This allowed me to get into administrative work after my final semester came to a close and has set me up for the future, as I have gained a wide range of skills. There are many sales jobs in Westgate which may be more suitable for sales focused careers, particularly for Business and Marketing students. However, after university, looking at London and other large cities is best.
 

A new home

Overall, I enjoyed my time at Brookes and continued to live in Oxford well after graduating. This city of dreaming spires has become my home, and is a cosy place for people keen to stay on and teach or work as an academic at with Oxford University or at Brookes. Nursing and other hospital jobs can also be found at the hospital. Big city life is not for everyone, and many have made their home and community here in Oxford, as have I.

- Sasha
 

From India to the Heart of Oxford – My Journey Begins

Deciding to study abroad was not something I had planned since childhood, but it became a deeply personal decision shaped by a desire for growth, exposure, and challenge. I come from India specifically from Bengaluru, a fast-paced and energetic city that's always buzzing with life. But I felt I had hit a point in my academic journey where I needed something more than just a traditional classroom setting. I wanted global perspective, exposure to practical learning, and the chance to interact with people from all over the world.

That’s when I discovered Oxford Brookes University and honestly, it felt like the perfect fit.
 

Why I Chose Oxford Brookes University (and Why I'm Glad I Did)

People often associate Oxford only with the University of Oxford, but Oxford Brookes has its own incredibly strong identity. It stood out to me because of its highly specialised courses, amazing industry connections, and practical approach to education. What sealed the deal for me was the MSc in Construction Project Management. Coming from an architecture background, I wanted to move toward managing construction and infrastructure projects, and the course structure at Brookes was exactly what I was looking for focused, technical, and industry-oriented.

The faculty here are approachable and very encouraging. They are not just teachers they're mentors. What I also appreciated is that a lot of the coursework is research-based, which has helped me gain confidence in my academic skills. You’re not just expected to memorise content; you're encouraged to analyse, think critically, and find your own voice.
 

Life on Campus – Modern, Welcoming, and Full of Surprises

Oxford Brookes has several campuses, but I spend most of my time at the Headington Campus, which is modern and really well-equipped. The library is probably where I’ve spent the majority of my days it’s open 24/7 during peak study weeks, and I love the quiet study zones, group rooms, and even the café inside where I usually grab my coffee between lectures.

There's also a huge sports centre (Brookes Sport) where students get discounted memberships. I joined a couple of yoga and dance sessions there during my first semester, and it helped me break the ice and meet people outside my course. The campus has a very student-friendly vibe modern buildings, tech-equipped classrooms, and so many green spaces around.
 

Finding Home Away From Home – My Accommodation Experience

I chose to live in student accommodation for my first year, and I must say it was one of the best decisions I made. I stayed at Clive Booth Student Village, just a short walk from the Headington campus. It’s surrounded by trees, calm, and the rooms are quite spacious for student housing. What I loved most was how international the community was. My flatmates were from Thailand, Nigeria, and Italy, and it didn’t take us long to form a little family.

We cooked together often, and those kitchen conversations taught me more about the world than I could’ve imagined. You learn how to respect cultures, communicate with empathy, and genuinely enjoy diversity.
 

Adjusting to Life in the UK – A Cultural Shift with a Lot of Tea

Coming from India, everything felt a little quiet at first. The pace of life in Oxford is much slower than what I’m used to in Bengaluru. People are polite, wait patiently in queues, and say "sorry" even if it's your fault! But these small things began to grow on me.

The weather? That took time. Carrying an umbrella every day has become second nature now. But there's something charming about the drizzle, the cozy cafés, and how beautiful the streets of Oxford look in the fog.

Social life here is different too. In India, your social circle is often built around family and close-knit friends from school or college. Here, it’s more about shared interests. I made friends through societies, group projects, and even simple things like waiting in line for coffee. Everyone’s generally very open and welcoming, especially when they know you're from abroad.
 

Course Spotlight – MSc Construction Project Management

If you’re someone considering studying this course, let me say go for it. It’s intense, but the learning is so rewarding. We study everything from procurement to risk management, digital construction technologies, and sustainability. One thing I’ve particularly enjoyed is how they link theory to real-life case studies.

The professors often bring in their own industry experiences, which adds a practical layer to everything we study. We’ve had guest lectures from professionals in the UK construction industry, and many modules involve independent research and presentations, which prepare you for the real world. I’ve grown a lot not just as a student, but as a professional.
 

Discovering Oxford – A City Straight Out of a Movie

Living in Oxford feels like living in a postcard. The cobbled streets, historic buildings, vintage bookshops, and quaint cafés it never gets old. On weekends, I often go for long walks along the Thames or explore the university parks. Port Meadow and Christ Church Meadows are some of my favourite spots to unwind.

There’s a great mix of history and modern life here. You’ll find centuries-old pubs with amazing stories, next to high-street fashion brands and bustling shopping centres. It’s a very walkable city, and public transport is easy to use when you want to visit London it’s only about an hour away by bus or train.
 

How I Spend My Free Time – More Than Just Studies

Balancing life here is something you learn quickly. The course is demanding, but there’s always time for personal growth. I joined a couple of societies at Brookes one focused on international students and another on entrepreneurship. These societies organise events, mixers, and trips which are great for networking and having fun.

I also spend time journaling, going for walks, and trying out new places to eat. Oxford has everything from classic British pubs to Indian, Thai, and Middle Eastern restaurants. I even found a little Indian grocery store in Cowley Road that stocks all my favourites from home.
 

Studying in English – From Doubt to Confidence

English is my first language, it’s something I’ve always been comfortable with, thanks to my schooling in India. However, academic writing in the UK has its own tone and expectations, and it took a while to adjust. Thankfully, the university offers writing support services and workshops, and they’ve helped me improve not just my essays but also my confidence.

Group discussions, seminars, and presentations also gave me the space to practise and become more fluent. Everyone’s patient, and mistakes are seen as part of learning, which makes the environment feel very safe.
 

What I Wish I Knew Before Coming Here

Looking back, I wish I had known just how independent life here is. In India, everything is very structured and you often have support at every stage. Here, you have to figure things out whether it’s cooking your own meals, budgeting, or planning your schedule. But that independence is what shapes you. It forces you to grow.

Another thing? Pack a good raincoat. And bring things that remind you of home it could be your favourite snacks, photos, or traditional clothes. They help on the days you feel homesick.
 

Final Thoughts – A Journey That Changed Me

Studying in the UK, especially at Oxford Brookes, has been a turning point in my life. I’ve not only grown academically but also discovered a version of myself that’s stronger, more curious, and more adaptable than I ever imagined. If you’re considering this path then just take the leap. It won’t be easy all the time, but it will be worth it.

Every international student comes here for a degree, but we all leave with so much more memories, friendships, lessons, and a new home in our hearts.

- Deeksha
 

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
 

Hi! My name is Julie, and I’m 23 years old. I’m from Oslo, Norway. I moved to the UK when I was 21 to start my studies at Oxford Brookes University, and it’s honestly been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

It all started when I went on a language trip with EF to Oxford Brookes. I fell in love with the city during that visit. I’ve always been passionate about English, languages, and exploring different cultures, so I knew I wanted to pursue a bachelor’s degree abroad. I was considering both Italy and the UK, but something about Oxford really stayed with me.

Choosing a programme wasn’t easy; I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do. But I knew I loved working with people, and after living in Italy for three months, I had developed a strong interest in travel, good food, and wine. Hospitality felt like the natural direction, and when I saw that Oxford Brookes offered a degree in International Hospitality and Hotel Management, with a management focus too, everything just clicked.

The university has been great. The teachers are incredibly knowledgeable, passionate, and supportive. It’s also been so rewarding to study alongside people who share similar interests, there’s a real sense of community in the classroom.

Making friends was really easy, especially during Freshers Week (which is similar to “fadderuke” in Norway). It’s a fun and social week for all new students to meet each other and go out. There were also group chats where you could connect with people who had similar interests or who came from the same country. That’s actually how I met most of my friends.

During our very first semester, some of us started a Scandinavian Society at the university. It began as a small group of Norwegians, Swedes, and Danes, but it quickly grew. Soon, even non-Scandinavian students began to join because they liked the vibe and the events we organised. It was really cool to see how something like that could create a genuine sense of belonging and bring people together. It definitely helped expand our friend group and made uni life feel even more like home.

In my first year, I lived in Cheney Student Village with five others I didn’t know beforehand. Since I started university a little later than most, my flatmates were a bit younger, but we had a great time and I’m still in contact with most of them. In second year, I moved into a house with my best friends from Freshers Week, and it was amazing. We did everything together, and I’d really recommend living with friends if you get the chance.

Oxford is a beautiful city with so much to offer. Even after two years, I still haven’t seen or done everything! There’s always something new to explore, whether it’s cozy cafés, cool pubs, historic spots, or gorgeous green spaces.

One thing to keep in mind is that student housing, both university accommodation and private rentals, can be quite pricey, especially with the NOK being weak. But it’s definitely manageable with some planning.

The move to the UK was smooth for me. I got help from my parents, and the university helped organise move-in dates and gave lots of support with settling in.

Looking back, moving abroad has helped me grow so much. I feel like I’ve really stepped into adulthood. Being exposed to new cultures, people, and perspectives has opened my mind and shaped who I am today. I’ve gained so much confidence and independence, and I’m so grateful for the experience.

My advice to future students:

Say yes to opportunities, even if they feel a bit scary at first. Go to events, join societies, and talk to people. Everyone is in the same boat and looking to make friends, especially in the beginning. Don’t stress if you’re unsure about your exact path when you start your studies; you’ll figure it out along the way.

- Julie
 

Hi! My name is Sara and I come from Bergen, Norway. I completed high school with a specialization in science, and also had an exciting year as an exchange student in Cardiff, Wales. That experience gave me a taste for studying in the UK and opened my eyes to an international study environment.

I am currently studying a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in London, specializing in finance and marketing. I chose to study in London and the UK because I wanted a unique study experience in the middle of a global finance and marketing hub, the perfect place for both education and future job opportunities. In addition, I wanted to challenge myself and experience something completely different from Norway. An additional motivation for me was also that some around me thought I would not succeed; it gave me a strong desire to prove that I could do it.
 

Student life in London

London is a huge and diverse city that never stands still. The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic, with a cultural scene that ranges from historical museums and iconic musicals to small art galleries and live concerts in local pubs. People here come from all over the world, and I especially notice this at my school, which is an international school with students from all sorts of backgrounds and cultures. It makes everyday life incredibly exciting, you learn something new about other countries and cultures almost every day.

Studying in London is both chaotic and incredibly fun. The city can be overwhelming at times, with busy transport, a fast pace and countless opportunities, but that is precisely what makes the experience so unique. As a student here, I meet people from all corners of the world on a daily basis, and it has given me new perspectives, broadened my horizons and made me feel like part of a global community.

London also gives you a sense of freedom and endless possibilities, there is always something going on, whether it is an exhibition, a festival, an exciting lecture or a spontaneous event in the park. You never have to be bored here. At the same time, I have learned the importance of taking breaks, finding peace and appreciating small everyday moments in the midst of the chaos of the city, such as having a coffee in one of the countless small cafes, taking a walk along the Thames, or relaxing in one of the city's many parks.

One of the best things about being a student in London is that you are constantly surrounded by people who are just as ambitious as you. Many of them have big dreams, and it is inspiring to be part of an environment where everyone is looking for new opportunities. In addition, studying in such an international city is a golden opportunity to build networks, both social and professional, which can be valuable for the rest of your life.
 

Housing and everyday life

When I first moved to London, I knew little about the housing market here, and it was a steep learning curve. I found a room to rent online, and it was a very special experience: I moved in with a doctor who had a large parrot that sang and talked all day. The apartment was about 40 minutes away from school, which made the commute time-consuming and stressful. Although I regret that particular choice a little, I learned a lot about what to look for when finding a place to live, and I am left with a unique story to tell.

Eventually, I moved in with a friend I met at school. We rent a relatively large apartment in central London. We have space to cook, relax, and invite friends over, and I pay around 12,000 kroner a month. The standard is good, although the apartment is not ultra-modern, it has everything we need, and I like that it has a bit of a "2000 vibe" with wooden floors, old-fashioned details and a cozy touch that makes it feel homely in the middle of the big city.

My everyday life is busy, but I enjoy it. I combine my studies with a part-time job as a bartender and receptionist at a hotel, where I work about 20 hours a week, divided over three days. The job was surprisingly easy to find, and it has given me many opportunities: I have received several job offers while I have been at work, and I have built a large network of both local and international contacts. This network has been incredibly valuable, both socially and professionally.

A typical day often starts with an early morning workout to get energy for the day. After training, I go to school, and some days I go straight to work after classes. In the evenings I spend cooking dinner with my girlfriend, doing schoolwork, or taking a break with a series. On weekends I prioritize hanging out with friends, exploring new places in London or traveling, and of course, studying a bit every now and then.

When it comes to food and shopping, London has everything you could possibly want, from small, independent food shops with international products to giant supermarkets and exciting markets like Borough Market. In terms of transportation, I mostly use the Tube, buses and walking, and I've gradually gotten used to how hectic rush hour can be. At the same time, I appreciate how quickly and efficiently I can get around the city.
 

Academic experience

The school I attend has a completely different approach than what I was used to in Norway, and it has really challenged me in a positive way. Instead of traditional exams, the teaching focuses on group work and practical scenarios drawn from real life. We get large projects and presentations that we work on in teams over seven weeks, where we have to collaborate, find solutions and adapt, just like you have to in the working world. This way of working has made me better at communicating, planning and handling conflicts, and I feel that I have gained a realistic insight into what it is like to work in the business world.

One of the things I like best is how practical the teaching is. For example, we get assignments where we have to create marketing campaigns, financial analyses or strategic plans for real companies. Working with actual companies gives us an understanding of the challenges and dilemmas they face, and how theory from textbooks can be applied in practice. This makes the learning relevant, exciting and motivating.

The learning environment feels a bit like high school, but in a good way: The classes are small, with a maximum of 30 students, and this creates a safe and informal atmosphere where it is easy to raise your hand, participate actively and ask questions. The lecturers are accessible and interested in the students, and we quickly build a personal relationship with them. I have experienced that the teachers remember my name, give constructive feedback and really want me to succeed.

The classroom dynamic is also very international, with students from all corners of the world. It provides exciting discussions, different perspectives and many aha experiences when you understand how different cultures can think completely differently about the same issue. It has made me more open, patient and better able to work in diverse teams.

All in all, my school has given me a professional experience that feels relevant to the working world, while at the same time I have learned an enormous amount about collaboration, leadership and creative problem solving. I feel better prepared for a career in finance and marketing than I would have with more traditional education.
 

Social life and free time

Socially, London has exceeded all my expectations. It is incredibly easy to meet new people, and I have made friends both through class, school in general and my job. I actually met my two closest friends at work, we had good chemistry right away, and it has been extra nice that they also go to the same school as me. I find that everyone is open to getting to know each other, and because you constantly change classes based on which subjects you take, you have the opportunity to meet many new people throughout your studies.

London is a city where there is always something happening, and it is almost impossible to get bored. I have spent a lot of time exploring different neighborhoods with friends, from the colorful streets of Notting Hill to the hip markets of Camden or the cozy cafes of Shoreditch. We have often had spontaneous evenings with food from all over the world, gone to small concerts or discovered bars with live jazz. There are also always events for students, both at school and in the city in general, which makes it easy to socialize.

I have been on the school football team, which has been a fun way to combine exercise and socializing. It has not only given me new friends, but also helped me stay active in a hectic everyday life. I am also part of a couple of student associations that arrange monthly meetings and occasional social events, such as quiz nights or theme parties. These events have been great opportunities to get to know people from other disciplines, and to share experiences with students who are in the same situation as me.

On the weekends, I try to find a balance between relaxing, doing schoolwork, and experiencing the city. I often go out to try new restaurants, visit museums or parks, or take day trips out of the city. I love being social, but I have also learned the importance of taking time for myself, especially in a city like London that can be both exciting and tiring at the same time.

All in all, the social life in London has given me memories to last a lifetime, and I have made friends from all over the world who I know I will keep in touch with long after my studies are over.
 

Travel and discovery

One of the best parts of living and studying in London is how easy it is to travel, the city is a hub that makes it easy to get around both the UK and Europe. I have travelled quite a bit since moving here, and it has given me memories that I will never forget.

Within the UK, I have taken several trips to Scotland, which have been absolutely magical. I visited the Highlands, where the scenery is like something out of a movie, with green valleys, mirror-like lakes and majestic castles. I have also been to small towns in the South of England and loved the cozy atmosphere, old buildings and traditional pubs.

Outside the UK, I have used London's fantastic connections to go on weekend trips and holidays to several places in Europe. I have been to Split in Croatia, where I swam in crystal clear waters and explored the old town, to Nice and Monaco along the French Riviera, where I enjoyed the beach life and delicious food, and to the Netherlands and Belgium on spontaneous trips with friends. Many of the trips have been by cheap flights or trains, perfect for students who want to experience a lot without spending too much money.

What I love most about traveling from London is that it feels like Europe is right on your doorstep. It’s easy to hop on a train to Paris and be there in a few hours, or hop on a plane and spend a long weekend in a new city. I’ve also discovered how exciting it is to go on day trips by train to places like Oxford, Cambridge or Brighton, little getaways that provide a break from city life.

Among my favorites so far are without a doubt the Highlands in Scotland, where I felt like I was in another world, and Nice in France, where I experienced amazing beaches and great food. Being able to travel so easily has made me feel like I’m getting the most out of my time in London, and I learn an incredible amount every time I visit a new place.
 

Challenges and adjustment

Moving to a new country alone is scary, there’s no way around it. Before I left, I felt a mixture of excitement and fear, and the first few weeks in London were undoubtedly challenging. I had just left everything and everyone I knew at home, and was starting over in a huge city where I knew no one. It felt both lonely and overwhelming at times.

One of the biggest challenges was finding a place to live. The housing market in London is hectic and expensive, and it can be difficult to know what to look for, which areas are safe, and what is actually a good deal. After my first experience living far from school with a somewhat special tenant, I learned the importance of taking the time to find the right place and not being afraid to ask other students or the school for tips.

The language was also a bit of a challenge at first. Although Norwegian school provides a good foundation in English, it took time to get used to thinking and speaking English all day, and especially to understand all the dialects and accents you encounter in an international city like London. But after a few weeks I started to think more automatically in English, and now it’s completely natural.

Another thing I had to get used to was the pace of the city. London is hectic, and it can feel like everything is going at a furious pace, people are rushing to get on the tube, the street scene is full of life, and there’s always something going on. I had to learn to find my own breathing spaces, like going for a walk in a park or taking a quiet coffee break, so as not to get completely exhausted by the chaos of the city.

As for the culture, I was surprised by how diverse London is. Because the city is so international, you don’t really have to adapt to one specific “British” culture, it’s more of a myriad of cultures, and as long as you show respect and normal manners, you feel welcome regardless of your background.

The student life also required some adjustment. I had to find new ways to study, learn to plan projects that lasted several weeks, and collaborate closely with students from completely different cultures and with different working methods. But through these challenges, I have learned an incredible amount, both about myself and about how I work best.

Ultimately, the challenges have made me stronger and more independent. What I feared most before I left, feeling alone and insecure, turned out to be manageable obstacles that have given me valuable experience and self-confidence.
 

Advice for future students

One of the most important things I would say to other Norwegians considering studying in the UK is that it is completely normal to feel insecure at first. The first few weeks can be tough, everything is new, and it can feel a little lonely. But remember that almost all other international students are in the same situation as you, and most are just as open to making new friends. So don’t be afraid to take the initiative, whether it’s asking a classmate out for a coffee or joining an event.

When it comes to housing, I would recommend starting your search early, and not taking the first and best option even if it is tempting when you are stressed. Ask the school if they have reliable recommendations or lists of student housing. If you choose to rent privately, be careful to check the contract and see the apartment before you sign, there is a lot of trickery in the London rental market.

Financially, it is wise to have a buffer account, so that you have a little to fall back on if something unforeseen happens. London can be expensive, and it takes some time to figure out how to best balance your budget and student life. Remember that as a student you can often get discounts on everything from public transport to museums, cinema and food, take advantage of it!

My best tip for getting the most out of your stay is to say yes to things even if it feels a little out of your comfort zone. Join a student party, an excursion or a meeting in a student union, even if you don't know anyone there. You never know who you will meet or what opportunities will open up. Don't let the fear of making mistakes stop you, most others are busy with their own business and don't remember small mistakes that you think are embarrassing.

Also think long-term: ask yourself what you want to be left with after your studies. Is it just an education, or also memories, networks and experiences that shape you? Use the time to build relationships, be curious, and contact people in the industry you want to enter, it may give you job opportunities that you would never have had at home.

Finally: follow your gut feeling. It's easy to be scared by thoughts like "what if it doesn't work?", but distinguishing between healthy fear and real gut feeling can help you make good decisions. If you feel that you really want this, then take the chance, it's often the things we don't do that we regret the most.
 

Summary and reflection

Studying in the UK has been one of the most challenging, educational and rewarding experiences of my life. I remember how overwhelming it felt to stand at the airport in Bergen with a one-way ticket to London, not knowing what awaited me. Now, when I look back, I am incredibly proud of how far I have come, not only professionally, but also personally.

My stay in London has forced me to become more independent and responsible. I have had to make important decisions on my own, deal with both small and large problems, and find solutions when things have not gone as planned. All of this has given me self-confidence and belief in my own abilities, and I feel much better equipped to face new challenges in the future.

Academically, my studies have given me a practical understanding of finance and marketing, and taught me how what I learn in the classroom is actually applied in real life. I have had the opportunity to work with real companies, learn from talented lecturers and collaborate with people from all over the world. This has not only strengthened my knowledge, but also taught me the importance of understanding and respecting different perspectives.

On a more personal level, I have gained memories and friendships that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I have met people from countries I have never been to, and some of them have become close friends that I cannot imagine life without. My best friend is from Brazil, we probably would have never met if I had not dared to go, and for that I am eternally grateful.

What I take away from this experience is the certainty that I can do much more than I thought. I have learned that the comfort zone is a nice place, but that it is outside of it that you really grow. I have also learned the value of saying yes to opportunities, trusting yourself and not letting the fear of failure stop me. These are experiences that I know will shape both my life and my career for years to come.

For me, this has not only been a study abroad experience, but a journey that has shaped who I am and who I want to be. I recommend anyone considering studying abroad to take the chance, because it can change your life in ways you can't even imagine.

- Sara