Postgraduate life of an Indian student in the UK

Moving out of your home to study in a new country is a challenging task by itself. But when you have to do it all during a global pandemic, it’s a whole other ballgame. Studying in the UK and at UCL so far has been an extremely unique experience for me. 

Along with all the learning you will be doing at The Bartlett, studying in the UK also teaches you to be independent, self-sufficient and allows you to experience real adulthood. Here are some of my highlights.

Diversity

UCL, along with The Bartlett, prides itself as one of the most diverse universities in the world, and this is absolutely true. Over the past 5 months, I have interacted, made friends and worked with people from all over the world. Experiencing different cultures can really open your eyes and help you look at the world from a different perspective. It teaches you to be open and accepting to other cultures and helps you celebrate the togetherness. I have been able to learn so much from my colleagues from all over the world, be it the delicacies of Greek food to the significance of the Chinese New Year! 

A striking feature of the education system here in the UK,  compared to back home in India, is there is little to no handholding, which can be daunting at times but is also very liberating. Here, professors believe in allowing students to explore their potentials and push the boundaries in ways they see fit. This is wonderful when there isn’t a set path for you to follow, as you create your own journey throughout the year. You learn your strengths and weaknesses and you always have help and support to mentor you through the hurdles. 

Home away from home

Living in London has so many perks, not only are you in one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world with so much to see and do, but you also can find a part of your home right here. Moving so far from home can be daunting, but both the UK and UCL have such a wonderful and accepting Indian community, if you ever feel like you need so see familiar faces, or you are lonely during the festivities you will definitely find doors open for you.
  
One of the highlights from my time in London has been Christmas in the city, lights, music and joy cover the city. Walking through Covent Garden to see the giant Christmas tree or getting a warm cup of mulled wine from Borough Market, few things in the world can beat London’s Christmas spirit.

Plethora of Opportunities

Graduating from a school as presitigious as UCL definitely has its merits, you graduate with a degree that is well recognised not only in the UK but all over the world, opening doors to infinite opportunities. Additionally, students graduating from 2021 onwards are eligible to apply for the ‘Graduate Route’ which gives international students like us the opportunity to apply for a 2-year post study work visa. This gives you the opportunity to work in the UK and gain international experience!

Studying in the UK is an adventure, with so many opportunities to learn and grow. Not only do you get to experience its world-class lifestyle and diverse culture, but you also get this familiar sense of home all wrapped up in one. It is an experience that truly must be lived!

About the author

Alankrita is a student of the Urban Design MArch at The Bartlett School of Architecture, she completed her Bachelors in Architecture in Bangalore, India and is currently part of Research cluster 14, where her research explores how data and machine learning can be used to design the city and its networks.