It all started with an Instagram ad (and a gut feeling)

While I was looking for master’s options in Mexico and already feeling the academic cycle slipping away, I came across an ad from Across the Pond on social media: “Would you like to study in the UK with support from CONACYT / FUNED?” It was as if the algorithm knew exactly what I needed to see. Even though I thought it was already too late to apply, that question sparked something in me: what if it IS possible?

What attracted me most about the UK was the one-year programme duration, the flexibility, and the professional focus of its universities. Coming from a musical background and looking to move into cultural management, the UK seemed like the perfect bridge to transform my career.
 

Choosing De Montfort University: creativity, practice and community

After reviewing many options, De Montfort University (DMU) was the one that truly convinced me. Their MA in Cultural Events Management didn’t just focus on the artistic side, but also on planning, leadership, and real-world festival management. In no time, I received an offer letter and realised it was all becoming real.

DMU offers a diverse, inclusive environment, approachable lecturers, and countless extracurricular opportunities. From day one, I felt that my voice mattered, even when I was still insecure about my English.
 

Funding my master’s with FIDERH and FUNED: a strategic investment

Applying to FIDERH and FUNED was a major and challenging step. The paperwork, the essays, the decisions... at times, I felt overwhelmed. But having my family’s support and the guidance from Across the Pond was key. They helped me stay focused and reminded me that I wasn’t alone.

Although I was afraid of taking on debt, I came to understand that FIDERH and FUNED weren’t just loans – they were strategic tools that allowed me to study without as much financial pressure. I’m currently in the grace period, preparing to take on that responsibility with much more clarity and confidence.
 

Shared house, shared laughs: my accommodation experience

For my first 10 months, I lived in student accommodation, and I totally recommend it for anyone arriving for the first time. The facilities were comfortable, the space wasn’t huge but definitely enough, and the reception and maintenance teams were always ready to help with any issue.

Now I live in a house, but starting in student accommodation made everything simpler. My advice: research hidden costs if you’re renting independently. Sometimes the simplest option is what gives you the most peace of mind, especially in your first year.
 

Academic English: from blocked to unlocked

Yes, studying in English was tough. At first, I felt insecure about speaking, writing essays, or participating in seminars. But the university always provided support, patience, and resources to help us improve. Nobody judged our mistakes – instead, they valued the effort to grow.

What helped me most was networking, not being afraid to speak up, and asking for corrections. The language stopped being a barrier when I started treating it as a tool that evolves with you.
 

Leicester: the city that helped me stay focused

Leicester isn’t London, but it has everything you need: diversity, culture, peace, and opportunities. It’s a city where you can focus without constant distractions. It has creative spaces, museums, festivals, and a rich multicultural atmosphere.

If your priority is to study while still having access to art and culture, I definitely recommend Leicester.
 

Beyond the classroom: films, culture and community

In my free time, I enjoy going to the cinema, visiting museums, attending concerts, bars, and trying new food. I also volunteered at festivals, joined the Latin Society and the Radio Society at DMU, and attended many extracurricular workshops and talks offered by the university to train future cultural leaders.

Making friends isn’t always easy at first. But once you connect with someone, it’s for life. I’ve made friends from Mexico, Latin America, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Malaysia, Brazil, and more.
 

Lessons for Latin American students

If I could give you one piece of advice, it would be this: learn how to really use a planner.

Not just to write down appointments, but as a structure for your personal goals, time, habits, rest and progress. Everything here is scheduled in advance, via email, and organised. Starting to use a proper planner before coming to the UK will help you adapt and make the most of your time.

(Not even joking: sometimes it feels like you need to schedule being sick two weeks in advance!)
 

Thank you, Across the Pond

Thanks to their guidance and support – especially from my advisors – I was able to understand the application process, clear my doubts, structure my essays and documents better, and never feel alone. Having that kind of free, trustworthy support made a huge difference.
 

And if you're reading this with doubts...

Believe me, I’ve been there too. Full of questions, insecurities, fear of rejection, fear of the language, money, and the change. But what I discovered is that the UK is not an impossible dream. With the right strategy, support, networks and clarity of purpose, it IS possible.

You’re closer than you think. All that’s left is for you to take the first step.

- Javier