Life in a Foreign University | ‘Moving to the UK as a student, with my husband and toddler’

I decided to pursue higher education to stay relevant in this rapidly evolving field. After searching for the course, I finalised an MSc in Finance and Technology from the University of Essex.

The university was incredibly welcoming, with a vibrant and diverse community on campus. In the first week, I frequently reached out to the student services desk to clarify various processes and get the hang of things. It’s a big university, and moving between buildings often requires a 10–15-minute walk. Initially, I took help from strangers for directions, but the university’s welcome week for new students proved to be a huge help. They offered guided campus tours, which made navigating the campus much easier and helped me settle in more comfortably. The diversity and supportive atmosphere created an inclusive environment that made the transition smoother for all the students.

I shifted to the UK along with my partner. Within the first week of arriving, I was able to secure admission for my daughter to a state school. While moving with family certainly comes with its own set of challenges such as navigating the new systems and settling into a different environment, having my family by my side made it much easier to adapt to the changes. Their presence provided comfort and stability, which helped us all adjust to our new life more quickly.

Our experience settling in was a mix of challenges and surprises. During the first week, we stayed in an Airbnb while searching for a permanent home. Since we didn’t know anyone in the city, it was initially a bit overwhelming. However, we were fortunate to meet some helpful people who connected us with a local real estate agent and within just two days, we secured an apartment. Despite the uncertainty of not knowing anyone, the kindness we encountered made the process of finding a home much smoother than expected.

While my spouse is working, I too have a part-time job at a retail clothing store. For international students, working part-time can significantly ease the financial burden. With the 20 hours per week allowed during term time, it’s quite feasible to cover living expenses, including the rent. This flexibility provides a sense of financial independence, allowing students to focus on their studies while managing day-to-day expenses. Balancing work and studies can be demanding, but it’s definitely manageable and rewarding in terms of both experience and support for the living costs. A lot of part-time jobs are available for students on campus as well as off campus.

When it comes to studying in the UK, I have truly enjoyed the experience here, and it has been incredibly rewarding. I have managed to build a small but close-knit group of friends, and we make it a point to celebrate every festival and special occasions together, which has made life abroad feel more like home. If given an opportunity, I would strongly encourage everyone to explore studying in another country. It’s an eye-opening experience that broadens your perspective and helps you appreciate the things you may have taken for granted. The challenges and life lessons you encounter along the way not only make you stronger but also shape you into a more compassionate and resilient person. The growth, both personally and professionally, is something that stays with you long after your studies are over.

(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)