I had to push myself past my boundaries, question my beliefs, and experience a new environment. My journey was about self-discovery, perseverance, and finding purpose in an unfamiliar place and not just academics.
I chose to study in the UK mostly because of its excellent academic reputation, and, of course, the possibility of drinking coffee in charming cafés while pretending to understand my course :P Coming from India, where education is intense, demanding, and fast moving, I was ready for a change. I imagined a life where I would sip a strongly brewed Coffee, stroll around charming neighborhoods, and finish my assignments with ease. Spoiler alert: it's a bit more challenging than that. Juggling between how to correctly pronounce "water" and perfecting the skill of staying awake during lectures, I realized that this trip would involve much more than just sipping coffee.
Okay now, let's jump to the real part of this blog,
The key difference between studying at Home vs. Studying Abroad
As soon as I got here, reality hit. Studying overseas is similar to being thrown into the deep end of a pool, except instead of learning how to swim, you are expected to write a 3000 word essay on your module plus manage your own groceries. (WELL I’M JUST BEING A LITTLE TOO DRAMATIC HERE)
I observed the following significant differences:
• The Diversity: In my home country, most of my classmates were from similar backgrounds. Here, One minute you're discussing branding strategies with a Nigerian student, and the next minute you hear a French person suggesting eateries. You know, like traveling the world without a ticket?
• A Comparison of Independent and Structured Learning : Back home, we're used to strict schedules, predetermined curricula, and a "read this, memorize that" mentality. A UK professor might simply advise, "Read these five research papers and develop your own critical perspective." - Excuse me? My critical perspective is that I need a structured PowerPoint, please. XD
Is Studying a Master’s Abroad Worth It?
A big YES, without question.
• Despite my periodic existential crises in the library at unplanned times, studying abroad has given me so much more than simply an education.
• I’ve learned to adapt, whether it means figuring out how to survive without my mother's home-cooked meals or adjusting to new academic standards. Additionally, my research and critical thinking skills have improved, which will benefit me in any field.
• I 've also developed a global network of friends, teachers, and specialists that may open doors I never would have thought of, in addition to learning how to handle my money and deadlines without my parents reminding me.
So, if studying abroad is something you're considering, go ahead and do it. It's terrifying, exciting, and completely changing in ways you won't even expect. Oh also prepare yourself for expensive avocados, British weather, and doing your own laundry :)
Lastly but importantly,
Huge shoutout to my incredible parents for their unwavering support and a big thank you to Inforens for giving future/current students an amazing platform with their services.
