Indian Student's UAL London Journey: Why Studying Abroad Was Less Scary Than Expected
Saayesha, a BA Interior Design student at the University of the Arts London, recently shared her unfiltered story about studying overseas. She initially thought the experience would be much harder than it actually turned out to be.
The Exhausting Application Process
Her journey began with the challenging task of shortlisting universities. Saayesha had to tailor her portfolio for multiple countries, which she found particularly draining. The process demanded careful attention to detail and significant time investment.
Adjusting to London's Academic Style
Once accepted at UAL, she faced a new academic environment. The teaching style at her London university emphasized research-driven learning. This approach required more independent study than she was accustomed to in India.
Saayesha had to adapt quickly to meet tight deadlines while balancing her coursework. The shift to this method initially felt daunting but eventually became manageable.
Navigating Daily Life in London
Beyond academics, practical aspects of student life presented their own challenges. Finding suitable accommodation required careful consideration of location, cost, and amenities. Managing daily expenses in a foreign city added another layer of complexity to her routine.
Building new friendships in an unfamiliar country took effort but proved rewarding. Social connections helped ease her transition and made London feel more like home.
Why It Was Less Intimidating Than Feared
Despite these hurdles, Saayesha discovered that studying abroad turned out to be less intimidating than she had anticipated. The structured support systems at UAL, combined with her growing confidence, made the experience more accessible.
She emphasizes that while challenges exist, they are often surmountable with proper preparation and a positive mindset. Her story offers valuable insights for other Indian students considering creative degrees overseas.
This firsthand account serves as a practical guide for those planning similar educational journeys. It highlights both the difficulties and the unexpected ease that can come with international study.