It’s a big world out there: the untold truths of being an international student in UK and how to navigate some of the challenges

Roberta shares the truths and struggles of being an international student living in the UK, giving some useful tips on how to manage this new experience.

- Roberta Gaeta

Moving to this country to study is clearly a popular choice for many students from abroad.  When looking at what the UK could offer me, the high-quality courses and the multiculturalism were the main factors that led me to leave my country, Italy,  to study in London. Embarking on a new journey is always exciting, as you get to experience a new culture, improve the language and make new friends. England is indeed known for being one of the greatest melting pots in the world, with its diverse cultures and the possibility of meeting people from around the world. 

However, for the students themselves, moving away from home, and becoming an ‘international student’ is not always all fun and games. It can bring many challenges along the way that can affect your mental health. Having to juggle between assignments, work and social life, on top of taking care of my own house, was definitely a challenge for me, as I was experiencing for the first time what being an adult meant. Although starting a new chapter of your life in a different place might be invigorating, doing it all by yourself can be tough and being in an unfamiliar environment miles and miles from the safe space of home can be intimidating when you don’t know anyone and everything is new. 

You’re trying to understand the country, its different culture and how to fit in. Most prominently, for some, is the homesickness that comes with being away from your family and loved ones. You might see yourself experiencing a sense of alienation and loneliness and feeling like you don’t belong here. You might find yourself juggling between assignments and part-time jobs, saving up every single penny and cutting down on social activities, trying to deal with the financial pressure that comes from the cost of living crisis affecting Britain and having to support yourself, making it hard to focus on education and friends.  We live in a world that is rapidly changing and we are faced with greater responsibilities than our previous generations, having to deal with more stress and anxiety, lower pay and job insecurity, higher expectations and a competitive work environment where failure is not an option.

In this stage of our life, the support of our family and close friends becomes critical and not having them around can be challenging.  Being an international student can be hard and you might feel overwhelmed, but you don’t have to go through this change alone. Having the support of my family and close friends and being able to open up to them really helped me overcome my struggles and it taught me there is nothing wrong with being vulnerable and asking for help. It’s important to recognise the tricky situations you might be facing and acknowledge how best to overcome those challenges.

Here are some steps that from my experience might help you to settle in: 

• Get involved in activities. Joining the gym is what helped me the most mentally, but even going for a walk with a friend for some fresh air can help immensely! The easiest and most fun way to make new friends and beat homesickness is to go out and explore the city and what it has to offer. The UK is known for its music, sport and food so the options are endless.  Depending on where in the UK you move to, there will be lots of versatile, vibrant, and varied things on offer! Make the most of your university networks to explore what’s on offer. 
• Do things that bring you happiness and fulfilment. Take up that hobby you had left behind (or take up a totally new one!) and use it as a way to express yourself and reconnect with your passions. It will boost your mood and help you when you’re feeling stressed or burned out. I personally love to paint or play cards with my roommates as it’s something I used to do back home with my friends.
• Talk to people you trust. When you’re feeling down, to avoid isolating yourself, try to surround yourself with people that make you feel seen and heard. Don’t be scared to open up or ask for help. If you realise you’re struggling, there are resources and experts you can consult that will help along the journey. Get in touch with your University student support teams as a useful flag to finding the best next steps.

But most importantly, be kind to yourself. It takes time to settle in, be patient and believe in yourself.

Read more tips on studying abroad on the Student Minds website.

I'm Roberta, an international student who moved to London over a year ago to study for a master's degree. When I first arrived, everything felt exciting but I soon realised I was about to face many challenges along the way. I want my story to show other students that, although it can be tough, it does get better.

University Mental Health Day 2022

Thursday 3rd March marks University Mental Health Day 2022. The Editorial Team have come together to share their thoughts and experiences on speaking out and seeking support as a student.

- Student Minds Blog Editorial Team

Chen-Chun (Student)

My university provides five free counselling sessions at the Student Services Centre for students who need help, and I have recently sought support from them. It was not an easy decision to make. I worried that I might be overreacting, so I hesitated while trying to seek support. The experience turned out to be really good and extremely helpful and I regretted not seeking support earlier.

 

Seeking support is okay and people working at universities are experienced, they will never judge you for asking for help and regard things that troubles you as insignificant.

Luke (Student)

The switch from living at home to university was exceptionally daunting, therefore the hardest part was reaching out. My university was quick in giving me an initial appointment where they facilitated open conversations where I felt safe to vocalise my initial anxieties. The appointments they provided were as frequent/infrequent as I wanted them to be. This really helped me not bottle things up which I began to.

They directed me towards an amazing NHS service which really helped me understand myself and my feelings. This experience really empowered me and enabled me to become a great talker and listener, and I feel I now have the tools to help others in similar situations.

Remember never to be afraid to ask for help!

Caoimhe (Graduate)

I personally didn't have to seek support while at university. As a student, I spent two years working with my university's mental health charity. As a mental health ambassador, I attended regular sessions and further training with Young Minds. 

I felt very grateful being in a position where people felt confident speaking with me expressing their struggles and worries. From these conversations, I would introduce these individuals to the support services on campus. It's rewarding helping people.

My university provided six free therapy sessions and raised awareness of mental health days throughout the year. 

If you are struggling, please seek support. You aren't alone!

Riley (Student)

I remember I needed help when I first came to London for my studies a few months ago, something really practical... for example, how to rent a flat, register a GP, even things like how to print at the school library. Sometimes I felt so ashamed to ask those kinds of questions because I thought those were so just stupid and small issues. 

Making good use of the university's service centre and joining the international students' community are the ways for seeking support.

It is okay to ask 'stupid' questions. I should forgive myself as a foreigner in a new place.

Sarah (Student)

Sometimes it can feel intimidating to reach out for support from student services. Although not a replacement for seeking professional help, peer support networks are a great way to talk to someone that understands the issues that students face. 

From my experience, peer support volunteers are all kind, empathetic, lovely people who are happy to listen to you and refer you to any relevant resources. 

No problem is too small, and this may just be the bridge you need to gain the confidence and encouragement to seek further help. Good luck!

Preksha (Student)

As an international student, I was far away from my comfort zone and initially culturally shocked - the systems, norms and even slang were all so different. I also experienced ‘imposter syndrome’ during my first term at Cambridge, constantly feeling like I did not deserve to be here. These situational challenges, when compounded, led to me being diagnosed with depression in the first few months of university. I struggled to create and maintain a healthy (and completely new) lifestyle of independence and productivity. My friends would encourage me when I didn’t have the energy to get out of bed or make myself a meal on most days. I was extremely fortunate to have found support professionally and in my friends. Despite initial hesitance, my friends and family encouraged me to reach out to the university's mental health services. This helped reassure me of the potential to recover, and guided me towards the light at the end of the tunnel. Many people are struggling like you, so don’t be afraid to reach out and get the help you need!

Fionnuala (Graduate)

 

My university offered many supports for students experiencing mental health problems. There was a free counselling service that offered students sessions with trained therapists. I used this service and found it very helpful.

If things were particularly tough and unmanageable around exam time there were policies in place allowing students to apply for extenuating circumstances which could postpone the examinations or allow a student to re-sit exams without penalty if they did not get a passing grade. There were disability support services for students that helped them to arrange accommodations to enable them to complete their education while managing mental health issues. 

Taylor (Student)

The stresses of university, exams and all the deadlines put pressure on everyone's mental health so rest assured that you're not alone there. You're equally not alone in wanting to seek support if that's what you feel is best for you. 

Speak out and get the support you need! It's much better to talk about the situation you find yourself in rather than suffer in silence.

And if you're not struggling with your mental health, then be there for your friends and loved ones. Let them lean on you for support and make sure they know that you're there for them.

Find out how you can make a difference on University Mental Health Day.

Written in collaboration by the Editorial Team. Find out more about them here.

Getting over self-doubt

Despite a difficult start in the UK, Thu took positive steps by focussing on what mattered to her most to improve her self-doubt and mental health issues. She hopes that this blog can help you to deal with self-doubt, especially from financial and working environment issues.

- Thu Anh Tran

Let me share with you my initial 2-year journey whilst studying abroad in the UK. In September 2017, I travelled 17 hours on a plane from Vietnam to the UK. This was the first time I had travelled abroad; the first time I had left my family and the first time I would be able to make my own decisions in life. I was extremely excited. Unlike many other students, I had to pay my own living fees and a part of my school fee. This financial commitment was also a promise I made to my family before travelling to the UK. This commitment was to motivate me to be independent, but it was also an enormous pressure. Therefore, my first thoughts once in the UK were to look for a job. 

In my case, this financial commitment was where my self-doubt started. After 3 months of living in the UK, I ran out of money. As a result, my family had to get involved, souring the relationship between me and my family. This led me to feeling guilty, irresponsible, and useless. It was the first time in my life I heard my mum cry on the phone, the first time since moving I felt desperate and the first time, I knew… how useless I am? Another 3 months went by, and I was continuing to stress about money. This led me to accept the first job I could get as a means of paying my living fees - manageable but not ideal.

Whilst some of the financial pressure was off, I was neither satisfied nor enjoying my job. Whilst my job was benefitting me financially, I worked in a toxic environment that affected my physical and mental health, deepening self-doubt. Working for 20 hours every single week during term-time, and 10 to 12 hours every day during holidays affected my mental and physical health. My self-doubt intensified to the point that I would be affected by any negative words, which was discouraging. The feeling of uselessness and self-doubt affected my sleep as I thought about the work environment that I hated. After transferring to a new work location, work certainly picked up, but my mental health still did not improve. 

Studying abroad was not a ‘rosy’ journey. I was lost and suffered with self-doubt for 2 years. That was until an important opportunity came my way - I got offered an internship at an international training company. Though I considered it a risk at the time, having to give up my stable job, I knew this could help me achieve my ambitions and accepted the internship. This was the turning point in my journey. On my first working day, I immediately realised why I was struggling for the past 2 years. It was not just about money; it was and continues to be about how those around me recognised my hard work and the support people gave me. It was not just about the job’s duties, but about my passion for what I was doing. Money is important but it is not everything. It felt great to do something I enjoyed and was good at it, allowing me to be the best version of myself. The internship helped me to improve my mental health and I become more confident – finally I started tackling my self-doubt demons! 

After starting my internship, I decided to change my living environment. I move to a new accommodation, to live in a place I always wished I could have. For the first time throughout my journey in the UK I was smiling in front of the mirror, I had peace in my heart and was able to tell myself that it’s good that I came to the UK.

For about 1 and a half years I pursued money and did a job that I was not passionate about nor good at. I realised that money did not help with my confidence, improve my mental health nor did it cure my self-doubt. I also realised that I struggled to engage with anything that did not interest me and found myself under-performing. My mental health was shattered for the first 2 years of my journey to the UK. Therefore, from my experience, here is my advice for international students to ease financial pressure and make the move more enjoyable. If you’re concerned about money, look for scholarships from the government, businesses, or the university. Work hard and save up money before you move. It is much easier to earn money in the environment you know, like your home country rather than in a new environment you may not know that well and may have a language barrier deal with. If you want to gain an accomplishment and have a great study abroad journey, plan your finance now before buying your flight ticket and think… everything will be ok.  

Strive for job satisfaction and to be happy. Whilst money is important, it is not everything. Speak with the people you trust most, including those at the university, representatives, your family, and friends. They might provide a different perspective! 

For the international students who have already started your journey, good luck!  For all of you starting soon… give it all your determination and energy, as your efforts will be worth it! 

Looking back at this difficult time, my experience crafted the version of me writing to you today – and considering how happy I am now… I know it was all worth it!

Find out more about what you can do to improve your wellbeing on Student Space.

I am Thu Tran. Graduate Business (Marketing) student at Birmingham City University. I just thought that this is a meaningful activity to share my story and encourage the other students who are on their way, going through these challenges.

How to Overcome the Emotional Challenges of Studying Abroad

Rodrigo shares his experience and advice for navigating the challenges of studying abroad.

- Rodrigo Aviles

Studying abroad was an amazing experience. Probably one of the best decisions I made for myself. However, it didn’t come without challenges.

I went to an international university in London as an international student. At most there were 5 people from the UK in my class, so everyone I met was away from their home countries. Therefore, I got the opportunity to experience first-hand the following challenges of studying abroad.

Unmet Expectations

It is normal to wonder how things are going to be like at university; classes, professors, people. But as you probably know by now, things don’t always go as expected. Many things are out of your control. How demanding classes are, how well you get along with your roommate, etc. When these things pile up, your mind can start playing tricks on you. What if I chose the wrong country? What if this career is not for me? What if I wasn’t ready?

As gloomy as those thoughts may seem, they are really helpful to do some self-reflection. Which is key for your development as a person, so don’t be afraid of them. Learning how to manage expectations is a great skill that will carryover throughout your life. It can only make you stronger and more emotional resilient. Here are two tips to do so.

1. Do your research.

During your interview process you are going to get the chance to ask questions. Take that opportunity. Ask about the problems students usually go through. What hardships can you expect as a freshman. What is the culture is like. Ask anything that comes to your mind. You won’t regret it, and you may even impress the recruiter too by showing that you are engaged and unafraid to ask questions. 

2. Expect Hard Times

This one applies for everything in life. No matter what stage in your life you are in. You will experience at the very least a sad moment. “University was supposed to be one of the best stages of my life?” It is, but it doesn’t mean it isn’t going to come with its struggles. It is easier to navigate through hardship when you accept that is normal and expect it to come at some point.

Pressure

This one is huge for college students and even more for international students. Your parents may have sent you there to study, get an internship and eventually a job. So you try to make it a priority. But you also have people asking you to go out, professors’ pressuring you with deadlines. It can be overwhelming. This is where you get better at making decisions.

My biggest mistake was thinking that grades were the main and only thing. So, my social life suffered a bit. But quickly I realized that life is not only about one thing, it is about making everything work together. Going out to a party, hanging out with friends, are both just as important. So, don’t feel bad for prioritizing your social life from time to time because it can be of huge help for your mental health. Aim for balance.

Feeling Alone

It is likely that when you move to another country you will feel alone at some point. It was my first time living outside my hometown and even though I thought I was going to be just fine; I struggled a bit. A month into my first year I was getting a bit depressed and I thought it was weird how everyone seemed to be doing so good. So, I started to feel lonely and out of place. My father used to tell me that if I ever needed to cry, I should do it in my room, where no one could see it. So, in public I made an effort to look as if everything was ok, but it wasn’t helping.

The experience that emotionally liberated me was a conversation I had with my best friend a couple of months into the term. As soon as I started talk him, I broke in tears and vented for almost 2 hours. I felt so much better not only because I got to vent, but because talking to someone validated my emotions and made me realize that I am not the only one going through this, most of my close friends were on the same boat. We were all so afraid to seem vulnerable. And I know it is hard to open up and rely on your friends sometime. It takes courage, and just like everything that does, it is worth it. 

You’d be amazed by the power of the emotional comfort a friend can provide. So, don’t be afraid to ask your friends about their emotions and be honest about yours.

For more information and advice about looking after your mental wellbeing at university, click here. 

Hi, I'm Rodrigo. I did my BBA at an international university in London. I decided to contribute to Student Minds because I've struggled with mental health issues, and I have seen the people I love go through similar experiences. If I am sure of one thing is that we need to talk more about our struggles in order to come out stronger.