Since starting my MSc in Climate Change: Society, Science and Solutions, I have made incredible memories, experienced life-changing events, and learned so much about climate change, and even more about myself. Coming from the United States, I was ready to experience some form of culture shock, but I was not prepared for how sudden these moments of change would hit me. As the end of first term is around the corner, I want to share three important lessons I’ve learned since I started at The University of Manchester. 

Lesson 1: Be Comfortable Saying Yes/No 

This is my first time living away from home in several years, and my first time living outside my home country. The first few weeks of the term you will be so overwhelmed and want to attend every party, travel to every city, and join every society. Do not be afraid to say “no” to some of these things. If you need to focus on a deadline or project and your friends are going out, do not feel bad for saying “I can’t make it”; there are going to be plenty of other opportunities throughout the semester to hang out, but prioritize your studies and take care of yourself first.  The great thing about UoM is they have so many resources available, regardless of your needs. Whether you’re facing homesickness or struggling with assignments, you can always find support here within the university or amongst your friends. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help when you need it, because chances are there will be someone in the same position as you. 

Lesson 2: Home is Where You Make it 

 Last week was American Thanksgiving, the first time I have spent a major holiday away from my mom. While it was tough not having my family by my side eating and watching American football, I made some great friends over the last few months, and we manage to spread the one-day holiday over three days! With such a diverse community in Manchester, I found it so valuable to make sure I had important parts of my life brought over to the UK, and that I shared these holidays and experiences with my new friends and classmates! I’m looking forward to sharing more American traditions with my newfound friends here, and to start putting permanent roots here in Manchester. 

Lesson 3: Put Yourself in Uncomfortable Situations 

Living in New York City for most of my life, one of the most valuable things I learned while living there is to not be afraid of putting yourself in new situations. We’re living in a new country, some of us just a few kilometres away from home, and other continents away, there was something about Manchester and the university that encouraged us to leave home and pursue this opportunity.  Join societies that you’ve always been interested in; this year I finally joined Kickboxing Society, something that I’ve always been interested in but never found the time for, and now I have some great friends. This November I hosted my first ever Thanksgiving Party, and although I love to cook and pride myself on being a chef, I had never cooked for a large party of people. Hosting my first Thanksgiving was so stressful but it probably made this year one of my favourite Thanksgivings ever, having all my friends together eating, drinking and laughing the whole night.  

 While I’ve experienced my ups and downs during my first term at UoM, I have no doubt that the rest of my time in Manchester will be worthwhile. 

Written by Kayla, current MSc Climate Change: Science, Society and Solutions student.

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