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Known for its prestigious universities and multicultural life
One of my dreams has always been to do my master's abroad. I knew that having an experience in a foreign country would be incredible in all senses. The United Kingdom is well known for its prestigious universities and multicultural life. In that way, I saw a great opportunity to study in the UK as well as the perfect option to improve my English. Furthermore, the possibility of applying for an extension of the student visa after my studies, is a great opportunity compared to other countries.
My course and the University
I am a master's student at the University of Kent in Canterbury, Kent, UK. I chose this university because it is a significant institute with a good reputation, it offers good facilities that enhance the learning experience, it has a good student environment, and it has a good location because it is very close to London.
I selected the Urban Planning and Resilience master's course because one of my professional dreams is to make better cities. I trust that this course will give me the tools to achieve this dream. The course covers a wide range of subjects; cities are very complex with many systems, and because of current concerns, the programme focuses on how cities can survive, adapt, and thrive for new challenges like climate change. For my classes, I had a lot of guest lectures from different backgrounds, which enriched the academic experience. I also attended some conferences in London related to the field.
Furthermore, I have participated in other activities inside the university organised by the School of Arts and Humanities, like workshops and conferences, so you will never get bored as you look for as many events as possible!
University life is full of opportunities, with a lot of academic and creative events. Furthermore, the university is a very beautiful place surrounded by greenery, and it’s possible to have a view of the cathedral from there! which is the most important urban icon in Canterbury.
Accommodation
I live at the university’s accommodation, and it’s very convenient because the campus is just across the street, so I can be in the library within 5-7 minutes, as well as the rest of the buildings in no more than 10 minutes. You can also find other facilities like cafeterias, the grocery store, and the gym. Renting on campus gave me the opportunity to have a free membership to access the gym and any sports facilities. And lastly, but not less importantly, the campus has a nightclub where they have parties for students all the time.
Also, sharing the accommodation has given me the opportunity to meet people and make friends from different cultures around the world, gaining fascinating insights into diverse cultures and lifestyles from both foreign and local students.
Student Life in the UK vs. Home Country
Academic life in the UK is different from what I was used to in Mexico. The focus is on individual learning, critical thinking, and research, which has forced me to broaden my horizons in terms of academic study. Student life has provided me with the opportunity to make friends with students from all around the world, expanding my understanding of international concerns.
Social Life and making friends
You will be surprised by all the people from different countries that you can meet. My time in the UK has given me the opportunity to meet friends from everywhere, frequently having cultural exchanges and sharing knowledge. Furthermore, I like to share my culture, so I have organised some meetings where I cook Mexican food and prepare some drinks to share with my friends. Favorites from them have been the "Chilaquiles" and the "Palomas." And, I have attended some meetings where I have tried food from different cuisines, as well as become a fan of the typical scones and tea from England.
Some associations, on behalf of the university, organise trips. I had the chance to go to Oxford, Bodiam Castle in Sussex, Dover, and Rhye. And one time, the School of Arts and Humanities at the university organised for free a trip to Walmer Castle.
The city
The city is amazing; it has a rich cultural and historic heritage, and a medieval environment can be felt due to the architecture of the town, including the amazing Canterbury Cathedral. I try to visit this as many times as I can; as a student at the University of Kent, I have free access. The high street and the green spaces along the river Stout are very charming, perfect for a picnic in the summer along the river!
Canterbury is very close to London (55 minutes by train), so I have visited London many times and also had the opportunity to go to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Derbyshire, and Manchester. as well as visiting places in other countries like Amsterdam and Dublin.
Transitioning to Studying in English
The transfer has gone well since the multicultural atmosphere has made it possible for me to develop my language abilities both academically and socially.
Additional Insights
Recently, I started working as a kind of part-time job where eventually I do shift work as a member of staff at weddings, which has helped with my economic expenses and given me the opportunity to meet more people. My only advice would be that if you plan to work at some point during your master's, start to apply with anticipation, because even though there may be opportunities for part-time jobs as a student, it takes time.
Furthermore, I wish I had understood more about the fine details of academic culture before starting the journey, like a career plan according to my goals with different networking options available. as well as general tips to survive and write a dissertation in the British academic context.
Application Process and Across the Pond
Across the Pond, there is excellent help. I have tried in the past to achieve this dream, and it was only with the advice from this agency that I accomplished the goal. The staff is very kind and give you very good advice.
- Martha
Canterbury itself is an absolutely amazing city
After completing my undergraduate degree, I started a job thinking I wouldn't be there too long because I knew I wanted to go back to school. Then I got another job, and another… I suddenly found myself without a job and time to finally think about that “going back to school” that I always told myself I would do. I took some online courses and found a subject that I was really interested in. After doing some research, I wasn't really convinced that I could get the education I wanted in Canada, so I started looking abroad. I found out about Across the Pond and they gave me more information about the schools and programs that related to what I wanted to study. They even helped me apply (which, let's face it, it's free to apply in the UK so why not just take the chance and see how it goes?). I applied to multiple schools and listed them based on my favourite. My top choice was the University of Kent because I felt I would get the best education from that program (it had a teaching portion as well as hands-on work and a practical component for experience). So it was easy to accept when I got the offer!
Living on Campus
To be honest, I didn't pay too much attention to the city where any of the schools I was applying to were located, but I knew I wanted to stay on campus. I knew on campus housing would likely be more expensive, but I figured I'd rather avoid the hassle of trying to find a place to live, sight unseen. It ended up working really well that the University of Kent has housing specifically for Post Grads and international students. I chose a room that had a bathroom attached (it was really a wet room and honestly a little small but better than sharing a bathroom by far), and the kitchen was shared across 5 rooms. One of the best parts was that everyone sharing the kitchen was from a different country and we made a point of having nights where we each cooked a dish and got to share our cultures. This might not always be the case but you are sure to meet some interesting people in a dorm that is made for international students.
The Campus and the City
Living on campus was, in my opinion, the best option because it was really easy to roll out of bed and go to class in the morning. I also didn't have to go very far at the end of the day and was able to enjoy on-campus events. By the way, the University of Kent is on top of a hill so it was also really nice not to have to go uphill to class and the library on the regular.
Canterbury itself is an absolutely amazing city. It has a pretty small town feel and is very picturesque. I had a lot of fun getting to learn all the history in the city, and also getting to walk the trails that connect it to neighbouring towns. Canterbury has markets in town so I usually went there to get fresh groceries. It also has a huge Christmas market with lights and a parade that really puts you in the Christmas mood. Additionally, I found the buses were reasonably priced and the main bus terminal has public transport buses that connect directly to other cities in the South East of England, perfect for exploring and going to festivals!
Exploring
On the note of Canterbury being well connected, I did a lot of travelling while I was over there, and I highly recommend it! Europe is pretty well connected and for a decent price you can get a bus, train, or even a plane to just about anywhere. Even if you don't see Europe, at least try to see the UK. If you're going to make the jump across the pond, at least enjoy the views. There is so much to see and do that I didn't get to see everything, not even close, but I will never regret spending the time and money trying.
The Best Part
I didn't know anyone when I arrived and I had no family nearby. I didn't find it particularly scary, though I'm sure some people would, but I was worried I would feel lonely since I'm not the best at making friends. However, in my program there were three other Canadian students! We have become close friends and, even though we have all finished our studies and gone home to our respective cities, we still keep in touch.
- Alannah
Student Accommodation in the UK
Where do you live when studying abroad? Do universities in the UK offer student housing? How much does student accommodation cost? Did you know that as an international student, you are guaranteed on-campus accommodation for the first or all your years studying at most of our UK universities? You will need to apply by the housing application deadline, and of course the best student accommodation in the UK goes first - so that is a good reason to apply early! There are several different student accommodations, price levels and facilities to choose from!
Most students choose to live on campus in their first year. This is social and a fantastic way to get to know students from all over the world! After that, most students choose to move into privately rented accommodation with their new friends. We recommend everyone to live in university accommodation in their first year, as it is a great way to get to know other students (and not just those on your degree).
Learn more about the different options, on-campus accommodation, how to arrange private accommodation and everything you need before applying for student accommodation in the UK via this webinar!
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Visa for European Students who want to study in the UK
Do you want to study in the UK and are wondering if you need a visa? Maybe you have applied to British universities already, or are considering applying to university in London or elsewhere in the UK, but would like to know more about the UK student visa for European students? This webinar recording is about the UK Student Visa for students who will be starting their studies at a British university and are from European countries. We cover everything regarding the CAS, the application process, cost and other practicalities worth thinking about when applying for a student visa.
Did you know that all non-UK students need a visa to study in the UK? How much does a student visa cost? Is it difficult to get a student visa if you want to study in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland? For most European students in the UK, a student visa is now a fact.
After the UK left the EU, student visas have now become a reality for the vast majority of international students. It is therefore important to familiarise yourself with this process as early as possible, so that you are well prepared when the time comes to submit an application for a student visa. In this webinar recording, we will go through useful information about student visas, when to apply, what you need for the application, costs, and other tips and tricks that can make the process easier. This webinar is suitable for those who have already applied, those who have accepted an offer, but also those who are considering studies in the UK and want to know more about the visa process.
We have the information and tools most people need to be able to go through the visa process without the need for individual follow-up/advice beyond the general information and guide from us. Remember that Across the Pond cannot provide individual advice on your visa application, only certified immigration staff can. In this webinar recording, you will learn about a number of important points that are good to be aware of when you familiarise yourself with the visa process.
The city is amazing
One of my dreams has always been to do my master's abroad. I knew that having an experience in a foreign country would be incredible in all senses. The United Kingdom is well known for its prestigious universities and multicultural life. In that way, I saw a great opportunity to study in the UK as well as the perfect option to improve my English. Furthermore, the possibility of applying for an extension of the student visa after my studies, is a great opportunity compared to other countries.
My course and the University
I am a master's student at the University of Kent in Canterbury, Kent, UK. I chose this university because it is a significant institute with a good reputation, it offers good facilities that enhance the learning experience, it has a good student environment, and it has a good location because it is very close to London.
I selected the Urban Planning and Resilience master's course because one of my professional dreams is to make better cities. I trust that this course will give me the tools to achieve this dream. The course covers a wide range of subjects; cities are very complex with many systems, and because of current concerns, the programme focuses on how cities can survive, adapt, and thrive for new challenges like climate change. For my classes, I had a lot of guest lectures from different backgrounds, which enriched the academic experience. I also attended some conferences in London related to the field.
Furthermore, I have participated in other activities inside the university organised by the School of Arts and Humanities, like workshops and conferences, so you will never get bored as you look for as many events as possible!
University life is full of opportunities, with a lot of academic and creative events. Furthermore, the university is a very beautiful place surrounded by greenery, and it’s possible to have a view of the cathedral from there! which is the most important urban icon in Canterbury.
Accommodation
I live at the university’s accommodation, and it’s very convenient because the campus is just across the street, so I can be in the library within 5-7 minutes, as well as the rest of the buildings in no more than 10 minutes. You can also find other facilities like cafeterias, the grocery store, and the gym. Renting on campus gave me the opportunity to have a free membership to access the gym and any sports facilities. And lastly, but not less importantly, the campus has a nightclub where they have parties for students all the time.
Also, sharing the accommodation has given me the opportunity to meet people and make friends from different cultures around the world, gaining fascinating insights into diverse cultures and lifestyles from both foreign and local students.
Student Life in the UK vs. Home Country
Academic life in the UK is different from what I was used to in Mexico. The focus is on individual learning, critical thinking, and research, which has forced me to broaden my horizons in terms of academic study. Student life has provided me with the opportunity to make friends with students from all around the world, expanding my understanding of international concerns.
Social Life and making friends
You will be surprised by all the people from different countries that you can meet. My time in the UK has given me the opportunity to meet friends from everywhere, frequently having cultural exchanges and sharing knowledge. Furthermore, I like to share my culture, so I have organised some meetings where I cook Mexican food and prepare some drinks to share with my friends. Favorites from them have been the "Chilaquiles" and the "Palomas". And, I have attended some meetings where I have tried food from different cuisines, as well as become a fan of the typical scones and tea from England.
Some associations, on behalf of the university, organise trips. I had the chance to go to Oxford, Bodiam Castle in Sussex, Dover, and Rhye. And one time, the School of Arts and Humanities at the university organised for free a trip to Walmer Castle.
The city
The city is amazing; it has a rich cultural and historic heritage, and a medival environment can be felt due to the architecture of the town, including the amazing Canterbury Cathedral. I try to visit this as many times as I can; as a student at the University of Kent, I have free access. The high street and the green spaces along the river Stout are very charming, perfect for a picnic in the summer along the river!
Canterbury is very close to London (55 minutes by train), so I have visited London many times and also had the opportunity to go to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Derbyshire, and Manchester. as well as visiting places in other countries like Amsterdam and Dublin.
Transitioning to Studying in English
The transfer has gone well since the multicultural atmosphere has made it possible for me to develop my language abilities both academically and socially.
Additional Insights
Recently, I started working as a kind of part-time job where eventually I do shift work as a member of staff at weddings, which has helped with my economic expenses and given me the opportunity to meet more people. My only advice would be that if you plan to work at some point during your master's, start to apply with anticipation, because even though there may be opportunities for part-time jobs as a student, it takes time.
Furthermore, I wish I had understood more about the fine details of academic culture before starting the journey, like a career plan according to my goals with different networking options available. as well as general tips to survive and write a dissertation in the British academic context.
Application Process and Across the Pond
Across the Pond, there is excellent help. I have tried in the past to achieve this dream, and it was only with the advice from this agency that I accomplished the goal. The staff is very kind and give you very good advice.
- Martha
