Moving to the UK as a student, with my husband and toddler

(Source: Indian Express)

With over a decade of experience in the financial sector, I decided to pursue an MSc in Fintech to enhance my skills in this dynamic and fast-evolving industry. Returning to academia after such a long break was both exciting and daunting, but it felt like the right step forward.

My educational journey began in Delhi, where I completed high school in 2008, followed by earning a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Kurukshetra University in 2011. Soon after, I embarked on a career in finance, where I worked for 10 years. However, the rapidly changing landscape of finance and technology motivated me to return to the classroom and update my knowledge. After careful research, I chose to pursue an MSc in Finance and Technology at the University of Essex.

A Warm Welcome to a Diverse Community

The University of Essex stood out for its vibrant and diverse campus community. From the moment I arrived, the university staff and student services were incredibly supportive. During the first week, I frequently visited the student services desk to understand various processes and get acclimated to my new environment. Navigating the sprawling campus was initially a challenge, with buildings spread out and requiring a 10–15-minute walk to travel between some of them. Thankfully, the university’s welcome week proved invaluable. Guided campus tours were organized, which not only helped me familiarize myself with the campus layout but also made the transition to student life much smoother. The inclusive and supportive atmosphere was heartening, creating a welcoming environment for students from all walks of life.

Navigating Family Life Abroad

Moving to the UK with my husband and toddler brought its own set of challenges. While having my family by my side provided comfort and emotional stability, it also meant learning to navigate new systems, such as finding a school for my daughter and securing housing. Within a week of our arrival, we managed to get my daughter admitted to a state school, which was a huge relief. Settling into a new environment as a family was an adjustment, but it was made easier by the bond and support we shared.

Our initial days in the UK involved staying in an Airbnb while we searched for a permanent home. Not knowing anyone in the city was intimidating at first, but we were fortunate to meet kind and helpful individuals who introduced us to a local real estate agent. Within two days, we found an apartment, which was a testament to the kindness of strangers and the strong community spirit we encountered.

Balancing Studies, Work, and Family

To manage our living expenses, I took up a part-time job at a retail clothing store. For international students, the 20-hour-per-week work limit during term time offers flexibility and a chance to ease financial pressures. This allowed me to contribute to household expenses while focusing on my studies. Balancing work, studies, and family life was demanding, but it was also fulfilling and provided valuable life lessons. Many on-campus and off-campus job opportunities are available for international students, making it feasible to manage living expenses, including rent.

A Rewarding Academic Experience

Studying in the UK has been an incredibly enriching experience, both academically and personally. I’ve built a small but close-knit group of friends, and together we celebrate festivals and special occasions, making life abroad feel more like home. The cultural exchange and sense of camaraderie have been invaluable in creating lasting memories.

For anyone considering studying abroad, I wholeheartedly encourage it. The challenges you face, from adjusting to a new environment to balancing multiple responsibilities, teach resilience and compassion. The experience broadens your perspective, helps you appreciate things you may have taken for granted, and fosters personal and professional growth that stays with you for a lifetime.

Returning to academia and moving to the UK has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. It’s an experience I would recommend to anyone seeking to step out of their comfort zone and embrace new opportunities.