Continuing with our blog mini-series, here is another student blog sharing top tips for international doctoral students moving to a new country. Below is Heather’s advice.
Moving to a new country
At first, everything felt unfamiliar—I didn’t always understand what was going on, and I was a little nervous in new situations. But I quickly realised that this is a normal part of moving abroad, and every small challenge helped me grow more confident day by day.
Settling in the UK
The UK has its own unique flavour —sometimes literally, with the smell of beer everywhere， from the culture of pubs to the sense of humour. At the beginning it felt different from what I was used to, but soon I started to enjoy the casual conversations, the friendly atmosphere, and the way people don’t take themselves too seriously. Learning to embrace these differences made me feel more at home.
Adapting to a new routine
Doing a PhD sometimes feels like a nine-to-five job—but one that allows flexibility and independence. It can be challenging to balance productivity with rest, yet I’ve learned to celebrate small progress and to remind myself that everyone has their own rhythm. Finding little joys, whether in the lab, the library, or even during coffee breaks with friends, makes the routine much easier.
Coping with homesickness
Of course, I sometimes miss home—especially the food! To make myself feel closer, I even keep a list of dishes I want to eat when I go back. But over time, I’ve also discovered that “home” can be where you feel safe and comfortable now. For me, it’s my student room, my friends here, and the small routines that bring me comfort. This mindset helps me stay positive and makes my PhD journey much more fulfilling.
Advice for new students
Since you’ve already made the big decision to study abroad, make the most of it! Don’t only spend time with people who speak your first language—take the chance to connect with friends from all over the world. The UK is a wonderfully diverse place, and one of the best things I’ve found is that people here are not overly critical of language mistakes. So speak freely, express yourself, and don’t be afraid of getting things wrong—every attempt is a step forward.
