Completing our blog mini-series, this blog is by Lele who has shared her advice for new international students settling in to a new country for their doctoral degree. Below we have shared Lele’s top tips.
When I first moved to the UK as an international student in 2018, I quickly learned a few things that made settling in much easier. Here are some tips I wish I’d known from the start.
Sort out the basics early.
- Getting a SIM card- I like Giffgaff as they are affordable and easy to set up even before I came to the UK.
- Opening a bank account – I quite like Barclays and NatWest. The University provides advice for international students looking to open a UK bank account, which you can read on their website.
- GP registering: go to the nearest GP to register so that you can book health appointments. The University have some advice for registering with a doctor in the UK on their website.
- You need to buy stuff such as duvet, pillow, utensils. I highly recommend you check affordable stores such as Primark, Poundland, B&M or Home Bargains. In terms of food shopping, I also like Lidl or and Aldi.
Join events and societies. Welcome week is a great chance to meet people, and societies make it easier to find friends with similar interests. Don’t be shy – most students are also looking to connect, and just starting a conversation can lead to lasting friendships.
Food helps you feel at home. Cooking dishes from my country kept me grounded, and sharing them with new friends always started good conversations. Do not be disappointed when you go to a restaurant here that serves your home food and they are not the same!
Adjust to the study style. In the UK, there’s more emphasis on independent learning, so managing your own time is key. Don’t be afraid to ask tutors for guidance – they expect questions.
Take care of yourself emotionally. Homesickness is normal, but exploring your new city, joining activities, and keeping in touch with family really helps.
Little by little, the UK stops feeling strange and starts to feel like home.
