The country felt like a home to me
I found my entire time studying abroad to be life-changing. London, England is a whole new world in itself; with a much different culture, architecture, and atmosphere than my hometown of Austin, Texas. I choose to study at the University of Roehampton in London because it is a partner university that my home institution had worked with previously and I knew our education standards were similar; so the transition would be made slightly easier. Upon arriving at the University of Roehampton I was greeted by study abroad staff who lived in London for many years, they were kind and helpful when introducing us to our new home. As a political science major, I knew I wanted to indulge myself in the British world of politics, and at the time of my arrival, I was thrown into the political arena! At the time of my arrival, the Queen had just passed and the country was going through Prime Minister changes. These events encouraged me to stay focused on my mission of attaining as much knowledge on the politics of the country. I had the privilege to visit the Houses of Parliament at Westminster and attended a debate as well as joined political activists in a March against greenhouse emissions. Being in London was surreal to me, as the city is the epicenter of world culture, architecture, history and so much more! I knew I wanted to be involved within the city and travel to the surrounding areas to gain a better insight into England and the UK as a whole.
Throughout my time, I made many local friends who were more than happy to take me around London and to their hometowns to give me a taste of what their lives were like before moving to “London Town.” I had the chance to visit the quaint city of Bicester by train. Coming from the US, this was a new experience for me as I'm so used to driving everywhere. I must admit, I had an emotional moment on the way; I was able to sit and view the countryside. Taking this all in made me appreciate the opportunity I had been given as many people back home would and will not have the pleasure to view England's countryside, though it's something that we talked about in school and viewed on television. Another opportunity I am greatly thankful for was the opportunity to stay in the picture-perfect town of Lewes, England. When I received an extremely joyful invitation from my friend and her parents to stay with them over the break. I knew this was a special moment I would remember for the rest of my life. My entire time at their welcoming home was full of cultural exchanges, more than I had ever experienced in my life. I was introduced to marmalade, meat pies, Yorkshire puddings and so much more! We also discussed the politics of our countries and found we all share similar values and goals for the world that include inclusivity and equality. I stay in contact with my friend and her family to this day! I will forever cherish the memories and exchanges we shared, I could not have asked for a better family to invite me into their home.
I realized how much, not just the town of Lewes but the whole of the country felt like a home to me. Even in my accommodation, which was located on the ground floor of a 3 story building in a small complex on campus, I felt that I could be comfortable just as I would in my home back in the States. Though I shared a space with 3 other roommates, I befriended them and we got along so well that we had scheduled dinner nights every week. We'd cook tacos in our shared kitchen and recalled stories of our hometowns, this was made special by the fact that we were each from different countries! The exposure to different cultures like this was something I hadn't experienced before as I came from South Texas, which is predominantly Hispanic. I enjoyed our late-night talks and going to the local pub and discussed our stress levels for upcoming assignments and papers.
While at the University of Roehampton, the most noticeable difference in my education was that I only had class twice a week. This gave me a large chunk of free time during the week to complete assignments and travel. Most assignments were writing papers, which I love, and in-class discussions, in which I excel. My favorite course was my Political Philosophy class which focused on philosophers and their thoughts on politics, religion, and mankind. My professor, from Paris, was passionate about teaching and ensuring we understood the class discourse as well as our research paper, so he scheduled mandatory one-on-one meetings to ensure our readiness. We met through Zoom while I was visiting Paris and we discussed my research paper as well as places to visit in Paris. He understood the needs I had, as a study abroad student: getting accustomed to the grading system, academic practices, and of course indulging in my host country.
Though my time in London was limited, the memories are forever engrained and have become a part of who I am. The friends I made will always have a special place in my heart and I will continue to have contact with them, hoping to one day see them again; either in their home countries or in mine! I am thankful for the opportunity to study abroad and am entirely grateful to my home institution, St. Edward's University for encouraging me to explore. I couldn't have chosen a better host institution, the University of Roehampton, with its smaller campus size allowing me to meet and mingle with individuals from across the world with varying and insightful perspectives.
- Vince
Your student life in London can be anything you want
Let me introduce myself. I am a Norwegian, 22-year-old psychology student at the University of Roehampton, currently in the final moments of my bachelor's degree. I have been asked to write something about my experience as a student in London, and so I will. Note that I am not the most academic. However, you don't need to be. I appreciate social settings and have often procrastinated in the worst times. The University of Roehampton has allowed me to perform exceptionally academically and have a content-rich social life. Now, let's start with the first question.
Why study in the UK at all?
While both accommodation and universities are expensive, you must adapt to a different culture and work with constant translation; it's an experience of immense value. Even though the UK is close to Norway and the resemblances in the society are countless, the culture shock pops the Norwegian "bubble" in more than one way. I wanted to become more connected to the international community and expand my network while still being able to travel home for the weekend if needed. So, why not move to one of the most extensive network boosters in the world? Many are saddened by feeling small in a city of this size. In my eyes, to think that your surroundings are huge must mean that the opportunities are limitless. Therefore, it can be difficult, but the benefits of the experience are more significant than the detriments.
Some points that Google won't tell you about Roehampton
Roehampton is just fresh air for a Norwegian in a concrete jungle. Living in London, like any European city, involves a lot of walking. Therefore, you appreciate walking around a large campus surrounded by nature. The pathways around the lakes are my favourite parts, as I sometimes get accompanied by ducks, geese, squirrels, and other smaller animals. The simpler things enhance your daily moods, like nature or the occasional tiny pumpkin hidden along the trails around Halloween. Second on my definitely written down favourite list, I can study anywhere. Changing your study environment is surprisingly helpful when most of your time is spent studying. If it's not the massive library, it might be the student union, the Whitelands Campus computer room, one of several diners, a green lawn anywhere or in Richmond Park right down the road (loads of deer). On your way around campus, you will often meet people you know. The campus is a miniature society that makes you feel at home, even if London is a concrete jungle.
Living surrounded by students
Firstly, my university accommodation experience was as follows: I lived my first year at Whitelands College, my second year off campus, and my third year at Froebel College. For your first year as a student from another country, the smartest thing you do is move into campus halls. You surround yourself with students doing different courses from different places and cultures. This way, integrating yourself into the UK and the university campus will be fast and straightforward. Furthermore, living in student accommodation is a minimalistic practice. You have delegated cupboards in the kitchen and your room (with a shower and toilet if you choose ensuite). The room usually has one bed, desk, and chair, so there is little to work on. However, the university provides a maintenance team that fixes anything broken, a cleaner team that cleans the common area once a week, security is available 24/7, and you don't have to think about the cost of wi-fi or electricity. All this for one stable price is a good deal. Most importantly, you get flat mates who often become your closest friends. In my experience, if I ever felt like taking a study break, needed consulting, or needed to be social, I just stepped into the kitchen. Thus, you don't have to be worried about not making friends.
A liquid life in London
Student life in London is different. Back home, I am used to a schedule that is mostly the same every week, where you usually know everything going on in town. In contrast, being a student in London means every week is different. It depends on what you choose to do in your spare time and what you study (I only have lectures two days a week). Some weeks consist of events hosted by the university (if you live on campus, it's literally in your backyard) or the student union. Other weeks are reading weeks (no lecture week), and some are filled with sports society matches. There are students out and about almost every waking hour, and what I love the most is that It's always the right day or time to let go of your pencil and go out to central London. Everything is just available all the time. Overall, your student life in London can be anything you want.
Psychology: the study of everything
I study Psychology, based at Whitelands College (a campus separate from the main campus). I chose this field of science because my experiences stretching mental barriers made me curious about what the mind is capable of and why. Who would not be interested in learning more about themselves and everyone else? Also, it's more than just learning about mental illnesses. It's to understand how everything humanity has ever done is based on the basics of the brain. Throughout the first part, I was introduced to general psychology themes like social, developmental, research and statistics, psychological problem solving and psychology in the real world. We had only two days of lectures from 09:00-16:00. The further into my studies, the more interested I got in the biological aspect, most related to neuropsychology. Now I wish to study and work with both psychological and physical trauma in the future.
Dive into my most basic week
No week is the same, but here is a generalised basic week in my life at Roehampton. Monday starts with many emails after breakfast (emails will become frequent as a university student). Then, walk to Roehampton's pride and joy, the campus library. After independent studying, I walk to Rosslyn Park down the road for my rugby training. Tuesday consists of walking (10 minutes) to Whitelands College for my early hour lectures, 11:00-13:00 and 14:00-16:00. If I haven't made lunch at home, I usually get something from the diner. The food there is varied and so good that I end up "forgetting" lunch a bit too often. In the evening, I usually go to the gym on or off campus. Wednesday is Roehampton's society day, where sports matches also take place. I typically participate in the Amnesty Student Society I am part of unless there is a rugby match that day. Thursday is specifically tough with its 09:00-11:00 and 14:00-16:00 lectures. Friday usually consists of an effective morning of studying with friends and volunteering at the nearby Royal Hospital for Neuro-Disability. The weekend is about relaxing, doing what you want and regaining that will to learn the following week.
Societies are more important than you think
Student societies are essential to any university and make a massive difference if you are in your first year. There are societies for every student. It might be a society focusing on human rights, anime, debating, film, nutrition, poetry, or the law. Starting your own society if you get enough interested students is also relatively simple. Sports societies are especially important for Roehampton and for your student experience. We have sports like hockey, cheerleading, volleyball, basketball, e-sports, tennis, football, and rugby. At my rugby training, I meet British, American, Australian, and South American lads who have grown up with rugby and some abroad student like me who started without knowledge of the sport. Some are there just for fun. Others take it more seriously, and that's fine. You are all on the same team, in the same boat, playing the same matches, riding the same waves. This definitely reflects on all the different sports societies at Roehampton. Also, the social aspect is the best part, as sometimes the team will gather after training at the student union for some socialising. After a match on a Wednesday, the rugby team (as well as other societies) arranges social activities of different kinds that often make you come home quite late. It is an excellent way to bond with the team and make friends, but your body will ache from the match the following day, and your head will ache from the night out if you are that type. So yes, student societies are essential and make a massive difference if you are in your first year. From personal experience, my advice when you arrive is to get out there, including yourself, and try.
English at university is different from in school
English is not my first language; Norwegian is. I grew up with English from the early years of school, which made it easy to transition to British society. However, scientific and academic English was a wake-up call. It is more technical, descriptive, and formal, but you will quickly get used to it. Additionally, the university provides you with Studiosity, the "world leader in writing feedback and peer connection" (Studiosity.com, 2023). You can submit any paper anytime and get fast feedback on your writing, which is incredibly useful (they have even corrected this text). Eventually, I realised that writing is art, even if it's a research report. To write is to express, and there are so many ways to express. You will also find that the professors talk too fast and use words that make your brain muscles twist. Luckily, the university records most lectures, so you can review them again if needed. As mentioned, if you surround yourself with English people, this transition will go faster than you realise. Your very own British accent will catch on.
A good friend called Across the Pond
I applied to the University of Roehampton through Across the Pond (AP). It was the first link when I searched for universities in London. I filled out a form with my wishes and quickly got contacted by an AP adviser. I was happy when I learned that they give you an adviser that has been in your shoes. For example, my representative also started with their psychology degree at Roehampton University, so I knew this was the right person to ask for advice. They informed me of the documents needed for a university application and provided me with a list of universities in London offering an undergraduate degree in psychology. When I received my unconditional offer, my AP representative pointed me in the right direction regarding accommodation. You can ask AP about anything, and they follow you along the way even after you have started at the university. Thus, I recommend contacting Across the Pond to make it easier for you.
- Victor-Jose
The staff was incredibly friendly
I loved being so close to so many beautiful European countries. All I had to do to get to Paris, Rome, Athens, or anywhere else, was pay anywhere from 30-200 pounds (very cheap compared to cross-continental flights) and catch whatever bus, train, or plane was cheapest!
I chose the University of Roehampton for its beautiful country landscapes and delicious meal plan. Everything I ate at Froebel college was the best thing I ever tasted.
The staff was incredibly friendly and everyone was super helpful when I didn’t understand things about the geography, culture, etc.
Just a short bus ride toward the Thames was the city of Putney which was so cute! There were markets and fruit stands and pastry shops lining the streets. Old book shops and coffee stands drew you in from miles away. It was quaint and clean and picturesque to spend a Saturday.
I’m a theater major at UCSD in America, so being in the cultural centerpoint, the New York City, of England was magical. I saw over 30 professional caliber plays and musicals. I went to ballets and operas. I got to rehearse and train in the city. It was beautiful.
- Clara
I wouldn’t change it for the world
Hi there! My name is Irene and I am a second-year student at Roehampton University in London. So far my experience here in London has been absolutely incredible; I’ve made amazing friends, travelled to thirteen new countries, and have had an experience of a lifetime– If you’re considering moving to London for university, I wouldn’t think twice!
Studying in the UK there is an excellent work-life-study balance. My education studies course at Roehampton is two days a week for 4-6 hours depending on the term/module load. This allows me to work on my days off of uni, and have plenty of time to study (and of course time to socialise, make friends etc.) I personally have really enjoyed this schedule and it has also allowed me to travel quite a bit, which is something I never could have done if I were to go to a school in the US.
Additionally, I have saved quite a bit of money by choosing to go to a UK school – an entire bachelors degree in the UK is roughly the price of one year at a state school in the US! Not to mention that a bachelors is only three years as opposed to four – saving you time and money on your education.
I choose Roehampton University because I really liked the campus; Roehampton is one of Londons only universities with a campus. Being a bit out of the hussle and bustle of the city, Roehampton is the perfect balance of city and nature. Roehampton is close to Richmond Park and there is plenty of green spaces in the area, but just one train away you’re in the center of London. I also feel that Roehampton has a great sense of community: there is a student bar with tons of fun social events, tons of societies that suit everyones’ different interests and overall just really nice people collectively.
My first year I lived in shared student accommodation. Roehampton has a large selection of accommodation, some more affordable than others, but overall really good accommodation. I lived in Chadwick Hall last year which was very very nice! I had my own room with my own bathroom and I shared a kitchen with nine other students. The kitchen was quite large and most of my flatmates were on different schedules so we had no problems with sharing. I now live in what the university considers ‘off campus student accommodation’ with two of my friends which I really enjoy and it ends up being much more cost efficient - but either way both experiences have been super enjoyable.
Overall, my experience in London has been absolutely fantastic and I wouldn’t change it for the world.
- Irene
A perfect fit
With its highly specialized research program and the world-class faculty, Roehampton was, simply, the perfect fit for me when looking at MA possibilities. I found nowhere else in the world that had the modules directly linked to my research interests and faculty members that actively cared about my well-being. Receiving a quick, personalized email reply from Professor Andrée Grau sealed the deal that Roehampton was the place for me.
WHY DID YOU WANT TO STUDY IN LONDON/UK?
As a thriving European metropolis, I knew that London would give me plenty of possibilities to travel around Europe, discover cultural happenings in the big city, and find plenty of opportunities for newness. As a LUIP ambassador, on behalf of Roehampton, I was able to engage with many of the activities and experiences I had hoped to discover before arriving.
WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT OCCUPATION?
I am currently a full-time freelance flamenco dancer and researcher, as well as co-founder and director of Al Margen Flamenco Company. After managing two careers for four years, as a dancer and high school Spanish teacher, I recently realized that I needed to dedicate all my energies and attention to dance. My current pursuit reminds me quite a bit of the path I was on while at Roehampton, which was one of the happiest and most fulfilling years of my life.
DID YOU EVER ENVISION THIS CAREER WHILE STUDYING AT ROEHAMPTON?
Yes. Returning to New York City to teach Spanish in high school was, actually, a diversion from my expected path. Even though my undergraduate degree was in Spanish education, I spent years after, including London, pursuing dance and research. This career move almost seems to pick up from where I left off in London and at Roehampton. Roehampton allowed me to do purposeful research, create artistic works, and engage with people both within and outside of my identity communities, which is what I plan to dedicate myself to moving forward.
DO YOU THINK YOUR DEGREE AT ROEHAMPTON WILL HELP ELEVATE YOUR CAREER?
My degree at Roehampton absolutely helped elevate my career. It introduced not only an intense focus to detail in research but, also, exposed me to a number of different approaches to dance, theory, and practice. The way I approach dance and research, today, is in no small part due to my skills attained at Roehampton.
WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT AT ROEHAMPTON?
My most memorable moment was, actually, during the first month when Professor Ann David invited me to attend a dance performance in the city. The dance performance related to my interests in gender and contemporary dance, so she took the initiative to bring me under her wings and show that our department was a caring, nurturing family. This set the tone for the rest of the year, which continued in a similar fashion.
WHAT WAS IT LIKE LIVING AND STUDYING IN LONDON?
As a New Yorker, I was intrigued by how I was going to feel in a big city other than my own, but I was pleasantly surprised. As the meeting point of so many immigrants and cultures, I felt like I could explore something new every day. Just when I thought I found all that London had to offer, there was another engaging exhibit, pop-up shop, neighborhood event, etc. that would leave me wondering more.
- Ryan
