Life of an Indian Student in the UK

Hello there! My name is Neha, I’m an Indian student studying in the UK, and the experience of studying abroad is unlike anything else – it’s exciting, challenging, emotional and full of surprises.

Moving out of your home to study in a new country is a challenging task it also teaches you to be independent, self-sufficient and allows you to experience real adulthood. Studying at ARU so far has been an extremely unique experience for me. So, grab a cup of tea (or coffee), and let me take you through some of the things I’ve encountered during my time in the UK.

A Whole New World of Education

As soon as I started attending my lectures, I have realized that the education system is vastly different from what I was used to in India. In India we have long hours of writing paper-based exam with a lot of focus on memorising the theories and formulas.

Here in the UK, things are a bit different. Here, the emphasis is much more on independent research and critical thinking with essays at the end of the semester. At first, I struggled a bit with this change in my pattern of learning because I was used to simply write what the teacher told me, and what I have learnt through reading my course books. Now I’m expected to think critically, question theories, and express my ideas through my essays and I can also get feedback from my lectures on my work, which helps me to improve. It’s a unique experience for me, but also a lot of pressure at times!!

Learn to appreciate your own company

This is my first time visiting UK, the first couple of weeks were great. I met new people every day, explored the beauty of Cambridge. It was all very fascinating at first but with the time goes on I have realised that the changes that came with moving to a new country were not just physical, but mental too. After few months, the homesickness kicked in. I started missing my family, the food and the warm. So, I continue to call my parents and my siblings several times a week and that makes me feel at home. It is completely normal that homesickness might accompany you at times, but it will pass at some point. learn to appreciate your own company the only person you will be with your entire life is yourself and you cannot be with people all the time! So, take yourself on nice solo dates, do any fun activity or find an internship or a part-time job for yourself which will take your mind away from missing home and keep you occupied.

With all ups and downs my journey is full of experiences

Living in UK has been the best experience, but it’s not without a few surprises.

Weather

The weather here is so cold and windy (and it can rain any time, not only in Cambridge, but anywhere within the UK). So be prepared, invest in a good quality umbrella or a good quality water-resistant coat. I grew up with the hot sun and monsoon seasons, not used to dealing with freezing cold weather. Now I need to remember a coat whenever I go out.

The Amount of Walking

People in Cambridge Walk everywhere. Sometimes, I miss the cheap bus or cab facility back in India. However, I’ve started to get used to walking everywhere and enjoying it as well (hey, it’s one way of exercising) .In fact, it’s making me healthy, fit and happy that I’m doing some physical work and during the time when I am walking either I listen to music or talk to my mum and that’s how it makes me feel happy.

Treating others with so much respect

I was surprised by how polite people are here in UK e.g. they say ‘sorry’ and ‘thank you’ way more often than I was used to. People here are so friendly, fun loving and helpful and full of life. There are also loads of people from all around the globe living so peacefully here in Cambridge. This was one of the reasons I decided to study here and I’m happy that I get to experience this.

My experience with food

With regards to food, I’ve had both positive and (somewhat) negative surprises! I’ve been able to try lots of delicious dishes and meals and there are a surprising number of Asian supermarkets and restaurants in Cambridge. This made it possible for me to still have some familiar food from home. Although I can still get my favourite Indian dishes like Samosa (fried snack) and Dal Makhani (Indian lentil soup with rice) from restaurants here, they taste different from what I’m used to as they are simpler and milder but still good.

Studying abroad isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. And looking back at everything I’ve experienced so far, I wouldn’t trade it for anything as living in the UK has been a life-changing experience for me, it has taught me independence, networking skills, time management and makes me more efficient.

Based on my journey here, my tip for the students will be Live, Learn and grow. Cambridge is an amazing place to study. There will be ups and downs, but try to learn from the challenges, and make the most of your time here.  Be open to new experiences, new people, and new perspectives. This is your chance to grow as an individual and make memories that will last a lifetime. While the journey won’t always be easy, it will certainly be worth it. Best of luck and enjoy your time here.

Cheers to saving smart, having fun, and making memories!!

Thanks for reading and stay tuned for more updates as I continue to learn and grow in my role as International Marketing Assistant at Anglia Ruskin University!