For Ashaaz Ansari, a young man from Bhadohi in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, the dream of studying overseas took root during his school days at Welham Boys' School in Dehradun. Observing his seniors navigate international applications sparked a curiosity that would eventually lead him to the United Kingdom. In January 2026, Ashaaz is actively pursuing an MComp in Computer Science at the University of Sheffield, where his academic journey has evolved from obligation to passionate pursuit.
The Allure of British Education and the Application Journey
Ansari's preference for the UK was not a sudden decision. A prior visit had captivated him with the country's distinctive architecture, a surprising but lasting inspiration for a Computer Science enthusiast. When university research began in Class 11, the UK's reputation for hands-on STEM education and a pedagogy that moved beyond rote learning solidified his choice. While he also explored Australian options, the cooler climate and his positive prior experience tilted the balance.
The application process became his first lesson in navigating foreign systems. For UK universities, he used the UCAS portal, submitting one application that covered five choices, accompanied by a personal statement, a teacher's recommendation, his Class 10 transcript, and predicted grades. The Australian route required individual applications. Ansari managed this process independently, only seeking a counsellor's help for the visa after receiving his offer. His efforts were rewarded with an automatic undergraduate scholarship of £2,500 from the University of Sheffield.
Academic Transformation and Building a Home Away From Home
The academic culture in Sheffield brought a paradigm shift. The system's emphasis on independence and self-discipline, with minimal direct oversight on assignments, was initially challenging. Ansari soon realized that engaging with unmonitored worksheets was key to deep understanding. This environment gradually transformed his perception; studying began to feel less like a duty and more like a engaging hobby.
He describes assignments as complex puzzles, citing long Java coding sessions spent debugging minute errors. The profound satisfaction of a finally functioning program, he says, makes every hour of struggle worthwhile. This approach has allowed him to dive into side projects and gain invaluable practical experience.
Life beyond the lecture hall was equally formative. The initial days, even with his parents helping him settle, were daunting. Welcome Week activities proved crucial, helping him forge friendships with a diverse group of international and Indian peers. Routine tasks like grocery runs, cooking, and daily commutes evolved from overwhelming chores into manageable routines and even welcome breaks. Moments spent at Meadowhall mall with friends, impromptu movie watches, and cafe visits quickly made Sheffield feel like home, proving that comfort and connection are possible continents away.
Personal Growth and Future Horizons
The experience has profoundly reinforced the values of independence and accountability. With no one to monitor his progress, Ansari is solely responsible for deadlines and decisions. His involvement in societies like Sheffield TechVision and student-led initiatives such as Project Quest has expanded his understanding of teamwork and leadership, pushing him to accept challenges outside his comfort zone.
Currently focused on coursework, he has not taken a part-time job, relying on parental support for living expenses while planning for internships during academic breaks. Reflecting on his journey, which began with completing Class 12 under the CBSE curriculum in March 2025, Ansari affirms that the decision to study abroad was intimidating but ultimately rewarding. The independence gained, the people met, and the continuous lessons learned have richly compensated for the distance from Varanasi, marking a significant chapter in his personal and professional growth.
