Life in a Foreign University | ‘Studying in the UK is more than academics; it teaches you adulting’

After my schooling, it was my family that encouraged me to dream big and look beyond India for my higher education. My sister, who studied in the UK and now works as a doctor in the NHS, was my guiding star through the application process. Their unwavering belief in me and the importance of education made my decision to study abroad a no-brainer.

The hunt for the perfect university

Applying to university in the UK was like setting off on an epic quest. I knew I needed a practical approach to education, and the University of Leeds checked all the right boxes. The application process involved gathering academic transcripts, crafting a compelling personal statement, and securing recommendation letters. With my family’s support and my sister’s guidance, what seemed daunting at first became manageable.

Leeds offered the perfect blend of affordability and vibrant city life, unlike the expensive and overwhelming hustle of London. I did not want to end up in a small town either so Leeds’s mix of greenery and urban charm was ideal. Another big plus was its proximity to my sister’s city, making family visits easier.

The University of Leeds had unique perks that sealed the deal for me. They have Channel 4 broadcasting machines and studio equipment, which are a rare find in universities. The faculty is not just academically sound; they come with extensive industry experience, which I found incredibly appealing. This combination of factors made Leeds the perfect fit for my educational journey.

University of Leeds — Vibrant, fun, educational

The University of Leeds provided an enriching educational experience that seamlessly blended theoretical knowledge with practical application. The diverse student body and engaging campus activities fostered both my academic and personal growth. Embracing the challenges, from rigorous coursework to adapting to a new culture, was incredibly rewarding.

Emaan is pursuing a journalism degree at the University of Leeds.

On the theoretical side, we had research modules and ethics modules that deepened our understanding and critical thinking. These were complemented by practical experiences like vox pops, interviews, and workshops. We even simulated an actual newsroom during “news days” where we were assigned roles and tasked with finding regional news for radio, broadcast, and online platforms. These hands-on experiences honed my journalistic skills and prepared me for the real world.

Campus life was equally vibrant and fun. The student union regularly organised engaging activities like well-being cafes, where we could unwind with arts and crafts, clay modelling, and pumpkin carving for Halloween. Each week brought a new activity, adding excitement to my university journey.

The support from my family, the dynamic university environment, and my newfound friends made this experience truly enriching. The University of Leeds not only equipped me with valuable skills but also provided a nurturing and fun environment that made my time there unforgettable.

Cultural adjustment: Embracing the new land

Touching down in the UK was both exciting and a bit scary. The learning curve was steep but the University of Leeds exceeded my expectations. Initially, student life was tough, but I soon integrated, made many friends, and found a supportive Indian community. This community became my anchor, providing comfort whenever I felt homesick.

Adjusting to the food and lifestyle habits in the UK was another exciting change. The UK offers a diverse culinary scene and I loved exploring different cuisines. However, finding familiar Indian food was comforting and helped ease homesickness. Learning to cook my meals became a fun and necessary skill because I missed “ghar ka khaana (home-cooked food)”. Initially, I brought Indian spices and dal from home but soon realised that Leeds has plenty of Indian stores. Finding halal chicken was a bit of a quest but I managed it. Bringing my own (pressure) cooker from India was a lifesaver though. On lazy days, instant noodles were like a warm hug of happiness. And let’s not forget Tesco meal deals – they made those long library sessions so much easier.

Emaan with her classmates and friends.

Studying in the UK is more than academics; it teaches you adulting. Time management, budgeting, and independent living quickly became part of my daily routine. One unexpected delight was embracing the UK’s culture of walking everywhere. Strolling through lush greenery and breathing in the fresh air became a new favourite pastime.

This UK experience broadened my worldview, exposing me to different cultures and perspectives. Leeds boasts a diverse and vibrant international student community, which made me feel right at home. Participating in various cultural events, especially during Freshers’ Week at the beginning of the academic year, was a blast. It was the perfect opportunity to join societies, make friends, and explore everything the university life had to offer. Plus, the abundance of free food for freshers was a welcome treat. Engaging with student organisations helped me build a global network and forge lifelong friendships.

The UK’s chilly weather was a stark contrast to India’s warmth so investing in fat, thick jackets was essential. It also served as a fun reminder of who the international students were as we bundled up while the locals seemed unfazed by the cold.

Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities to find campus jobs with flexible hours, allowing you to earn money while balancing your studies. This made it easy to manage both work and academics without feeling overwhelmed.

Studying in the UK has been a transformative experience. The journey from discovering my passion for journalism to thriving at the University of Leeds has been marked by support, determination, and growth. My family’s encouragement, the enriching educational environment, and the friendships I have formed have made this journey memorable. For anyone considering studying abroad, the UK and other foreign universities offer a world of opportunities, both academically and personally. Embrace the journey, and you will find it as rewarding as I have.

(This letter is part of a series by The Indian Express where we bring to you the experiences of students at different foreign universities. From scholarships and loans to food and cultural experiences — students tell us how life is different in those countries and things they are learning other than academics)