To get an honest and real idea of what it’s like to be an International Student at UCL, you have answered some of our questions to tell us about your experiences. This is part one of our series getting a feel for what it’s like living abroad, people’s top tips, common challenges and how to face them, and some of the best moments defining their time as an International Student.
This article is written by Aryan Shah Kenia, from India, and though an International Student, due to the pandemic he has spent his first year studying at home. We wanted to know his experience this year, and what his feelings are preparing to go to London having had his first year online at home.
1. What made you choose UCL?
During my applications, UCL was one of the top 10 universities, and it still is, which really fascinated me. UCL was even in the top 20 rankings for Biological Sciences! This university was also relatively cheap than many of the other premier institutions that provide almost the same level of education around the world. Being situated in central London was one the main criterion for me while choosing a university, because I wanted to attend a university with an urban lifestyle. London is also a very culturally diverse city, in the sense that there are people living here from almost every place in the world, so settling in wouldn’t take much time. Speaking of which, UCL has a very diverse student community, which is essential, especially for an international student like me.
2. Do you have any concerns about moving?
One of my major concerns was food, as I am a vegetarian. But, to my surprise, I have learnt the majority of restaurants have many vegetarian and vegan food options available and that they’re also delicious (according to some of my friends who have spent their first year in London). One of my other concerns was how to handle myself while balancing my studies with other aspects of life. However, after completing the first year online, the studies part can be easily managed with proper time keeping.
3. What would you tell a prospective student?
Essay writing is a major part of my year, and a majority of my grade depends on it. This means writing skills are quite essential for a biological sciences student, as well as students in the other bioscience courses. When you have a deadline for any assignment which has a duration of 3 weeks or similar, complete the assignment as soon as possible. Don’t let it pile up until the last week, because then you feel tremendous pressure when completing it. If you are stuck anywhere for any university related query, emailing the Teaching Administrator for the course is always extremely useful. If you have any course related questions, asking questions on moodle, or asking any of your course friends, always really helps. I also like to use Grammarly, or other such applications, to help properly structure my essays and check my grammar last minute.
– Aryan Shah Kenia