Whether you are in the UK as a student or a working immigrant, the country is home to some of the most vibrant cultures and age-old traditions. Different shires and cities represent different cultures, and the extensive train network makes it ever easy to just hop on and explore!
As a university student, you will get to experience the multiplicity of cultures from the onset of university life, as most UK universities require international students to stay on-campus for the first year. This also means that you will have to be ready with an open mind to accept everyone else’s different and diverse ways of addressing life! Universities in the UK also host international students from over 100 other countries, so it ill be no surprise to find your course-mates or flat-mates to be from another corner of the world!
Everyone has a story to tell, you just have to keep your ears open and listen intently. Striking conversation can be difficult, but everyone is willing to make friends! Attending university organised events, or virtual events because of the COVID-19 lockdowns, is crucial because this is where you will meet most students, who can be your potential friends!
Many universities also organise local activities, that aim to promote the local culture and help students settle into the new environment. It can be really fun to explore all the different activities the city has to offer!
Moreover, it is not necessary that you have to spend a lot of money to see the UK. Except for areas around London, cities and shires such as Warwick, Coventry, or Edinburgh are very student-friendly and accessible by coach as well, which if booked in advanced is very cheap.
There are a few things about the British way of doing things that you should keep in mind! Time is of utmost importance, and it is perceived very rude to not be on time or be running exceptionally late. Make sure you keep your appointments! Meal sharing in restaurants, which is a common practice in other countries, is not very prevalent in the UK, so make sure that you keep that in mind! Lastly, basic courtesies like ‘please’ and ‘thank-you’ will go a long way in making a good impression on whoever you interact with!
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