Coming to Manchester

Choosing a university is a significant life decision, especially when it becomes your home for the next three or four years. While there will be challenges along the way, you will also gain valuable experiences that shape both your personal and academic growth.

I chose to come to Manchester for two main reasons: the city itself and the university. Manchester is a large metropolitan city with a diverse character. There are countless places to explore, and even in my second year here, I still find new spots I’ve never visited before. The blend of classic and modern architecture, combined with green spaces and urban areas, creates a vibrant environment that enhances the overall university experience. The city is home to several universities as well as a local community, which contributes to a welcoming and relatively safe atmosphere. It’s easy to meet people from a wide range of backgrounds, making you feel part of a broader, inclusive society. With such a diverse population, you’re always likely to find people you connect with.

I also chose this university because of the course it offers. My programme, BSc Education at University of Manchester, provides opportunities for placements alongside modules focused on research and employability. The course directors are open to feedback, and improvements are introduced each year, which shows commitment to student experience. The flexibility of the course, along with the wide range of opportunities within education, is not unique to BSc Education; it’s something reflected across many programmes at the university. In addition, the variety and number of student societies further enrich university life, allowing you to develop new interests and make meaningful connections beyond your studies.

Adapting to the environment

Moving to a new country was a big step for me. Having lived in Japan my whole life, coming to the UK felt like a significant change. I was initially anxious about adapting to a completely new environment, but in reality, it wasn’t as difficult as I had expected. A large part of that was due to the friends I met along the way. They made a huge difference and helped me through challenges that would have been much harder to face alone. I made sure to ask for help whenever I needed it, and I believe this openness played an important role in adjusting.

Building friendships and getting to know people is one of the most important aspects of university life, even though it can also be one of the most intimidating. There are often group chats for your course and accommodation, and it’s possible to connect with people before arriving in Manchester. In my case, however, I only really got to know people after I arrived.

I actively attended course and society events to meet new people. While taking that first step can feel daunting, especially when you don’t know anyone, it often leads you to find your own community and truly enjoy life in your new city. Being willing to adapt is equally important: embracing the differences between Manchester and your home country, experiencing British culture, and appreciating the friendships you build along the way all contribute to a more fulfilling experience.

Homesickness is something many students experience when living away from home. I’ve felt it too, and I don’t think it ever completely disappears. What helps me is staying connected; calling my family and friends back home, and spending time with friends here to take my mind off it. Everyone finds their own ways to cope. Some students, for example, cook food from their home country. With so many international communities in Manchester, you can find supermarkets that stock a wide range of ingredients, making it easier to recreate familiar meals and feel a little closer to home. Leaving my comfort zone was a big decision, especially as I didn’t know anyone at the university. However, it has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. By stepping outside what felt familiar, I’ve gained far more than I ever could have lost.

Written by Hanako Nagumo.

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