From Airport Tears to Uni Cheers: Life as an International Student in the UK
Hi, I'm Ru, a third year law with business international student. Moving to the UK for university was one of the biggest changes of my life. I arrived excited, nervous, and very convinced that I was fully prepared. Looking back… there are so many things I wish someone had told me earlier. If you’re an international student joining in January, I hope this makes your transition feel a little less daunting.
1. The weather will affect you more than you think!
January in the UK is cold, dark, and very different from what many international students are used to. The shorter days can feel heavy at first, and it’s okay if your energy dips. Invest in a good coat, layers, and comfortable shoes, they honestly make a difference. More importantly, be intentional about checking in with yourself and staying connected to people during winter. This has really helped me. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the university’s wellbeing team if you’re struggling, they’re there to help and listen.
2. Independence hits hard (but it's a good thing)
Uni life in the UK is very independent. No one chases you about lectures, deadlines, or attendance. At first, this felt overwhelming, suddenly everything was my responsibility. But over time, I realised this independence helps you grow fast. You learn how to manage your time, advocate for yourself, and take ownership of your learning.
3. Classes are more about thinking than memorising
One big academic adjustment was realising that it’s not about memorising content: it’s about understanding it and applying it. Seminars, discussions, and assignments often expect you to share your perspective, question ideas, and think critically. Your voice matters, even if you’re still finding your confidence. I have found that engaging in seminars and lectures has helped me understand concepts better.
4. Social life looks different than I expected
Friendships don’t always form instantly. People can seem reserved at first, but once you connect, they’re genuinely kind and supportive. Some of my closest friendships came from group work, societies, volunteering, and even placements - not just nights out. And my closest friendship came from talking to the person sitting next to me!
Also, social life doesn’t always mean partying. As someone who doesn’t really enjoy that scene there are other ways. It can be coffee dates, walks, study sessions, or simply sitting together in silence while you work. Don’t feel pressured to fit into one version of “uni life.”
5. You will miss home, and that is normal
There will be moments when you miss home deeply: the food, the language, the familiarity, the people who know you best. Missing home doesn’t mean you made the wrong decision. It just means you loved where you came from. Create little routines that ground you: I do this by cooking familiar meals, calling family, journaling, or finding spaces that feel safe.
6. Asking for help is not a weakness
Universities in the UK have so much support, but you must reach out. Whether it’s academic help, wellbeing support, or financial advice; someone is there to listen. I wish I’d known earlier that asking for help is seen as responsible, not incapable.
7. You will grow in ways you did not expect
Living in a new country changes you. I have become more resilient, self-aware, and confident in ways I did not always notice straight away. Even on hard days, you’re learning things that go far beyond your degree.
FINAL WORDS:
If you are joining in January or September, give yourself time. You do not need to settle in immediately or have everything figured out. Take it one day at a time. Be kind to yourself. And remember you belong here.
Take our virtual tour to explore BCU and get a feel if it’s the right choice for you and ask me any questions or connect with other people coming to the UK soon in the comments!
Ru
BCU student rep!
1. The weather will affect you more than you think!
January in the UK is cold, dark, and very different from what many international students are used to. The shorter days can feel heavy at first, and it’s okay if your energy dips. Invest in a good coat, layers, and comfortable shoes, they honestly make a difference. More importantly, be intentional about checking in with yourself and staying connected to people during winter. This has really helped me. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the university’s wellbeing team if you’re struggling, they’re there to help and listen.
2. Independence hits hard (but it's a good thing)
Uni life in the UK is very independent. No one chases you about lectures, deadlines, or attendance. At first, this felt overwhelming, suddenly everything was my responsibility. But over time, I realised this independence helps you grow fast. You learn how to manage your time, advocate for yourself, and take ownership of your learning.
3. Classes are more about thinking than memorising
One big academic adjustment was realising that it’s not about memorising content: it’s about understanding it and applying it. Seminars, discussions, and assignments often expect you to share your perspective, question ideas, and think critically. Your voice matters, even if you’re still finding your confidence. I have found that engaging in seminars and lectures has helped me understand concepts better.
4. Social life looks different than I expected
Friendships don’t always form instantly. People can seem reserved at first, but once you connect, they’re genuinely kind and supportive. Some of my closest friendships came from group work, societies, volunteering, and even placements - not just nights out. And my closest friendship came from talking to the person sitting next to me!
Also, social life doesn’t always mean partying. As someone who doesn’t really enjoy that scene there are other ways. It can be coffee dates, walks, study sessions, or simply sitting together in silence while you work. Don’t feel pressured to fit into one version of “uni life.”
5. You will miss home, and that is normal
There will be moments when you miss home deeply: the food, the language, the familiarity, the people who know you best. Missing home doesn’t mean you made the wrong decision. It just means you loved where you came from. Create little routines that ground you: I do this by cooking familiar meals, calling family, journaling, or finding spaces that feel safe.
6. Asking for help is not a weakness
Universities in the UK have so much support, but you must reach out. Whether it’s academic help, wellbeing support, or financial advice; someone is there to listen. I wish I’d known earlier that asking for help is seen as responsible, not incapable.
7. You will grow in ways you did not expect
Living in a new country changes you. I have become more resilient, self-aware, and confident in ways I did not always notice straight away. Even on hard days, you’re learning things that go far beyond your degree.
FINAL WORDS:
If you are joining in January or September, give yourself time. You do not need to settle in immediately or have everything figured out. Take it one day at a time. Be kind to yourself. And remember you belong here.
Take our virtual tour to explore BCU and get a feel if it’s the right choice for you and ask me any questions or connect with other people coming to the UK soon in the comments!
Ru
BCU student rep!
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