6 student stories, 6 amazing adventures

‘We started our story – and it was the best thing we ever did!’

Deciding to study your degree in another country is an important decision. How can you be sure it’s worth it? Can you overcome the language barriers? Will you ever feel at home?   

INTO students travel from all across the globe to attend top universities in the UK and US; we talked to some of them about their first experiences, how they settled in, and why it’s actually been an amazing adventure.

Are you ready to start your story? Click here to find out more today.

Taking a leap of faith

student stories Natalia INTO Saint Louis University

Natalia moved from Venezuela to the US to study Academic English at Saint Louis University, she shares:

“Before I came here I was nervous and I was excited. The first night I was really nervous because I knew I had to go to my classes the next day, but at the same time, I was really happy because I knew that there are no people who speak my language and I really had to speak in English. It was scary, but I knew this would help me in the future. Soon I felt really comfortable and part of the community here.”

Jin from Korea has completed a Master’s in Human Resource Management at the University of Exeter. He found solace in societies:

Jin from Korea INTO EXE student stories

When I first got here, I was a little nervous, because I was new here in Exeter and the UK as well. But in my first week, INTO provided us with some orientation courses which were really helpful for adapting quickly. Every tutor is really nice and kind, plus, the INTO facility is great for studying. I joined two societies; a World Music Choir, which is singing songs together with people from all over the world, and a Korean Language Class. In the class, I teach beginners who are interested in the Korean language.”

Overcoming anxieties

Sofya, a student from Russia, who studied Tourism and Event Management at George Mason University in the US says:

“My advice would be don’t be nervous because everything here is for you. You will find help if you have any questions. The staff and students here are ready to help you. There are a lot of people like you who are also scared. I was one of them but now I love Mason and I’m really glad I’m here.”

Sofya from Russia George Mason University student stories

Nadine, a student from The Gambia, is studying Computer Aided Mechanical Engineering at Glasgow Caledonian University. She was just 16 when she arrived in Scotland and explains:

Nadine George Mason University student stories

When I stepped off the plane I had a lot of anxiety as I was still only 16, and was aware that everyone else was older than me. Pulling into Glasgow, I noticed the ‘People Make Glasgow’ signs and that was quite reassuring. I noticed that it was quite a friendly city. What was very interesting to me was that I’d been to many other European cities and I just noticed there was more warmth in all the cold.”

Making a new home

Yazid University of Alabama at Birmingham student stories

Yazid from Palestine, studying Data Science and Statistics with Social Media at the University of Alabama, Birmingham says:

“In the airport, I was so so excited because I was thinking, ‘oh my gosh I’m going to study in the USA!’. I came with my parents and sister, and I was feeling okay, though when they left I felt very alone. My problem was my English; it wasn’t good and I’m still improving it now. My first impression of Birmingham? It was cool. People were smiling, giving me the impression that I was more than welcome here in Alabama. I started feeling at home and comfortable when I started to communicate more and made friends, going to the park, playing basketball, soccer, going to restaurants with my Arabic friends – these people make me feel at home.”

Joy from Malaysia completed an International Foundation in Biomedical, Life and Environmental Science at INTO University of Exeter. She explained:

Joy Malaysia University of Exeter student stories

“The people here make me feel so welcome because of their friendliness. At first, I was so nervous but the staff here are patient. They will not only give you a helping hand with your studies but also support you in your life if needed. INTO is a great platform for me to meet new friends from different countries and I hope to have an amazing experience here!”

If these guys can do it, then you can too. It’s just a matter of putting yourself out there and embracing the opportunity. 

So what are you waiting for? Start your story today!

Discover why Sabina started her story and decided to study abroad…

Want even more motivation? Find out how Samuel started his own pharmaceutical company.

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