Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity and an experience to look forward to, however, adapting to a new environment during such an unusual period is more challenging than I thought. Nonetheless, I have survived my first three months in Manchester, and I would like to share what I have been through in the first semester being a PGT student.

I started my semester with online lectures for a month in September 2021, which was not a really good way to enter a new phase. The delay of settling in a new campus and missing out the physical welcome week means that I could not deal with life and academic changes separately step by step, but have to immediately handle both chores and coursework all at once right after I landed in Manchester. For the first few weeks, I was struggling with basically everything, from setting up my living space, the weather, to getting in touch with classmates in person and catching up with the school curriculum. What’s worse is that there were two deadlines from courses right after two weeks I attend my class on campus. That was the time I felt so overwhelmed, but in fact did not know that I was under great pressure.

As the first semester is almost half-way through, our course tutor encouraged us to sign up for an individual session so that she may have a better idea of how we are doing so far. I still remembered the day talking to her and could not hold myself but burst into tears. I was quite shocked that I did not realise I had such emotional burden. Even though I was having such a hard time, I am so thankful that my tutor was being so understanding and supportive when I shared my thoughts and vulnerability. With her advice and suggestions, I readjusted my expectation in the new life and myself and loosened up some stress. This is truly an unforgettable and heartfelt experience when I tried to settle into this new identity. What is more, I understood the importance of having enough time to allow myself adjusting to a whole new situation, and there is no need to rush. It is cliché but true that all it takes is time.

Studying as an Intercultural Communication student, the timetable for lectures is quite loose that I can have much flexibility with my time. Other than coursework and study, it is also essential to make time for establishing a social circle in the new place. Meeting people then building relationships is another way I settled myself, I would say mentally, into a more stable state. With the wide range of societies in the University, it is highly recommended to spend some time on what we are interested in. I joined the weekly social by the International Society several times, and met friends with similar experience there. From the conversation we had, I learned that it is common to feel difficult, and most of the time homesick, being an international student and facing major change in life. The realisation calms me as knowing that I am not alone in this.

It has been almost three months already and I believe that every moment will turns into precious memories, despite pleasant ones or upsetting ones. I wish you could also create your fruitful journey studying here in the University of Manchester.

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