Deciding what to do after high school might feel like one of the biggest and most important decisions in your lifetime. If you are like me and want to step out of your comfort zone, you should consider studying abroad. So, here are five tips on how to make your university life in Manchester as good as possible.

1. Make your space feel like home

Leaving your home, your comfort zone, the place where you probably spent most of your time is difficult. But one of the most essential steps in making your life easier when moving to Manchester for your undergraduate degree is to make your room as cozy as you like. Put pictures around your room, add a nice poster, some lights, or maybe some plants. Whatever makes you feel more comfortable. You will spend most of your time in your hall room, so you want to be safe and comfortable.

2. Join societies

Manchester is well known for its societies. There are over 150 societies which you can join. If you enjoy salsa, why don’t you join the dancing society or maybe you are a big fan of sports or even Harry Potter? You will most likely find a society that will fit your hobbies/passions. Joining a society is a great way of socializing, making friends, and making the most out of your time in Manchester.

3. Step out of your comfort zone

The first big step is already done. You’ve just moved out from your parent’s home into a new adventure and probably a new city or country. It is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and do some of the things you never thought you would be able to do. Are you a shy person? Why don’t you try joining the debate club? This will help you confront your fears. And remember, you are not the only one going through this.

4. It is okay to feel homesick

Being thousands of kilometres away from your family and friends is not easy. So, do not put pressure on yourself. It is okay to miss them sometimes, but remember they are only a call away. And never be afraid to ask for help or to take a break if you feel like you need to.

5. Have good time management

Coming to university is the perfect way to be more mature. Now you will have to cook, clean, study… all alone. Good time management is essential to fulfil all the tasks you might have during a week. So why don’t you plan it out? Every week, write your tasks on a piece of paper and track them. This will help you remember what you must do for that week and see how you can organize yourself.

Coming to university as an international student is always challenging, but the adventure awaits you. So, what are you waiting for?

Written by Ana, current MSc Management and Information Systems: Change and Development student at The University of Manchester

Related