What I Wish I Knew Before Moving To The UK

Look into the dairy of an International Student…👋

When I first decided to study in the UK, I was filled with excitement and anticipation, but there were so many things I hadn’t considered things I wish I had known before I packed my bags and boarded the plane. Now, looking back on my experience as an international student, I can’t help but laugh at my initial misconceptions. I’ve learned so much, not just academically, but about the culture, the people, and how to navigate life in a country so different from my own.

One of the first things I remember being surprised about was how academic expectations differ here. Coming from an education system where we were spoon-fed information and constantly reminded of deadlines, I expected a similar level of support. But in the UK, university life felt more like self-directed learning. I had to be proactive, managing my assignments, reading lists, and even my study schedule. The emphasis was on independent research, and it took me a while to adjust to this style. I remember feeling overwhelmed during my first week, thinking I had missed some key instruction, only to realize that the university expected me to dig into the resources and figure things out for myself. It was daunting at first, but over time, I learned to appreciate the freedom and responsibility that came with this approach.

One thing I wish I had known sooner was the cultural shock that comes with the UK’s “politeness.” Back home, I was used to straightforwardness. If someone was upset, they would tell you right away. But here, people would smile through a conversation, even if they didn’t quite mean what they were saying. For example, a simple “How are you?” could be the opening to a much deeper conversation, but it wasn’t always followed by genuine interest. At first, I was confused did they really want to know how my day was going, or was it just another formality? It took some time to understand the subtleties of British politeness, but now I know that their kindness isn’t fake, it’s just more reserved than I’m used to.

Another aspect I wasn’t prepared for was the cost of living. I had heard that the UK was expensive, but nothing could have prepared me for how quickly those expenses add up. Between rent, groceries, transportation, and social events, I quickly realized that my budget wasn’t going to stretch as far as I’d hoped. I had to make adjustments shopping in bulk, choosing cheaper brands, and learning how to cook meals that would last me throughout the week. I also learned that while the UK offers plenty of opportunities for students to save through student discounts, meal deals, and cheaper public transport every penny counts. I quickly adapted to these changes, but it was certainly an adjustment.

I had also imagined that British cuisine would be like what I had seen on television fancy afternoon teas, hearty roasts, and delicious pies. What I didn’t expect was how bland and heavy the food could be. There is a lot of bread, potatoes, and meat, but I find myself missing the spices and vibrant flavors of home.

After a few weeks of relocating, I made it a point to cook my own meals as I enjoy doing very often, adding spices to bring back that sense of home in every dish. I set a task for myself to search for African Grocery Stores where I could find fresh or frozen food items to my delight. However, now I actually enjoy the simplicity of some UK foods mostly the “English Breakfast”, but I still find ways to infuse my own culture into my meals.😂

One of the most surprising things I learned was how loneliness can be a silent challenge. It wasn’t the bustling campus or the crowded streets that made me feel isolated it was the quiet moments in my flat, when I would miss family dinners or not have anyone to share a cup of tea with. Even though I made few friends at university, nothing really replaces the comfort of being home.

During those lonely moments, I learned how important it was to stay connected with loved ones back home through video calls and messages. But I also discovered that forming a support network in the UK was equally crucial. I joined student societies, attended international student meetups, and soon found a group of people who understood the struggles of being away from home.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned since arriving is how to embrace change. Moving to the UK wasn’t just about adapting to a new academic system or learning how to navigate a different culture; it was about evolving as a person. I’ve become more independent, more resourceful, and more aware of how different cultures and perspectives shape the world. At the start, I was scared of making mistakes, of being too different, of standing out in a foreign place. But now, I take pride in my background and experiences, and I see them as strengths rather than barriers.

The experience of studying in the UK has not been without its perks, but it has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life. If there’s one thing I would tell any prospective international student, it’s this:

• Prepare yourself for the unexpected.
• Things won’t always go as planned, but they will shape you in ways you never imagined.

The UK is an amazing place to learn, grow, and build memories, and while it may take time to adjust, it will eventually almost feel like home.

This was a glimpse into what I wish I had known before I moved here, and now, as I reflect on my time so far in the UK, I realize that those early struggles were just stepping stones to something greater.

Cheers☺️ I hope you enjoyed reading this. Please like and subscribe for more.🫶🏾