I first moved to UK to do a bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management and it turned out to be the best decision of my life. After my undergraduate, I did not feel ready to move back to Norway, so I decided to proceed further with a postgraduate degree in Strategic Communication and Leadership. Mostly to enjoy life here a bit longer but also to develop my knowledge and skills. I believe moving abroad is one of the best things people can do for their own development and growth because you are forced to be independent and you learn a lot about yourself, as well as meeting new cultures and people.
 

How I ended up in Huddersfield

Most people ask me how I ended up in little Huddersfield considering I used to live in Oslo. However, I find the town charming, cheap, and with an amazing student community which I do not think I would experience studying in Oslo. The true reason to why I decided to move to Huddersfield, was based on the recommendations from my Across the Pond advisor. I wanted to study human resources in a smaller and cheaper city but a place that was big enough to have plenty of things to do, and I must say he hit the nail on the head. The best thing about Huddersfield is that everything is within walking distance and people usually go to the same pubs which means that you always meet someone you know out. If you want a more vibrant city life, great shopping and just a new environment, Leeds is only a 20 minute train ride away. From my experience, Huddersfield is an open and welcoming community where it is easy to get to know new people. The university have a plenty of sports and socials options which makes making new friends a lot easier. I have tried cheerleading, pole dancing and climbing. With the last one, we have done several trips together where I have had the opportunity to see more of UK, the highlight was a trip to Wales. With these student societies comes a lot of socializing and new experiences. University of Huddersfield offers a range of different clubs, all from book clubs to rum clubs, to many different types of sports, so I am sure everyone will find something that appeals to them.
 

My worries for moving abroad

I still remember the first day I moved to UK, I was nervous, stressed and excited all at once. I was worried about the language, if I was going to find any friends, and about starting studying at all. First of all, the language was a bit uncomfortable in the beginning, but I got used to it surprisingly quick. No one really cares if you say some grammar mistakes as long as you make yourself understood, and to be honest, most British people are just impressed by the fact that we can speak more than one language. Getting to know people was not an issue either, most people were in the same position as me, moving to a new place without knowing someone. If you have this in mind, as well as being open minded, it will not be a problem. With studying, it takes some time to find the right techniques and a structure that works for you, but I think the university offers high quality support if you need help with anything from writing an essay to finding your way around on campus, or how to use the facilities. I believe this is what makes UK universities great, the support and guidance is outstanding.
 

British culture

Over the years, I have gotten more and more used to the British culture, and I must say my favourite thing about British culture (except Sunday roast) is the pub culture. We do not have anything like it in Norway, and it is something special about going for a pint with your friends. Whether it is to complain about the weather, celebrate someone’s birthday, eating a delicious Sunday roast, or just wining down after a long hike, the pub is the perfect meeting point. Other than that, I do not think there is many big cultural shocks coming from Norway to UK. Although, I did use some time to fully understand their humour as the sarcasm can seem a bit harsh. Additionally, the politeness was a bit different than what I am used to in Norway, but this is rather a positive thing than a negative one.

All in all, I recommend everyone to apply for studies abroad as it is the best decision of my life. I only have positive things to say about the guidance from Across the Pond as well, as they help you with the whole process from doing research in the beginning to the day you enrol at uni.

- Nora