Studying Abroad in Brighton, UK: An International Student’s Perspective

• Author: Preena Shah, Marketing (Branding and Communications) MSc, School of Business and Law

From an early age, I knew I wanted to study in the UK. Many people from my country (Nairobi, Kenya) pursue education abroad, and the UK seemed like the best option for me. Additionally, the opportunity to obtain British citizenship and a British passport, which I am currently in the process of acquiring, encouraged me choose the UK for my undergraduate studies. 

Studying Abroad: Before I Arrived

After attending UBIC for a foundation year, I continued my studies at the University of Brighton, where I chose to study a bachelor’s degree in ‘Business Management’; a well-known and highly regarded course. Several people from my country have also studied at the University of Brighton, and those I know spoke highly of the city, noting its abundance of enjoyable activities and the fact that it’s by the beach being a big plus! 

I had several expectations about life in Brighton and the UK. I anticipated a diverse and vibrant cultural experience, with opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds. I expected the education system to be of high quality, providing me with valuable knowledge and skills. Given Brighton’s reputation, I looked forward to enjoying the lively city atmosphere, numerous activities, and events. Additionally, I imagined the seaside location would offer a pleasant and relaxing environment. I also expected a certain level of independence and personal growth as I adapted to living away from home. 

Studying Abroad: When I First Arrived

I experienced several culture shocks and struggles when I moved to Brighton and the UK:

Food

The food was quite similar to what I was used to have back home, but the fact that I had to cook for myself took some time to adjust and plan meals.

Weather

The weather was also a significant change; the cold, rainy climate of the UK was a stark contrast to the weather in my home country.

Language

Luckily, language wasn’t as much of an issue, as English is my first language, but understanding the numerous British accents and slang have required some adjustment!

Social Customs

Social customs and daily routines were another area of adjustment. In general, people in the UK tend to be more reserved and private compared to the more communal and open nature of people in my country.

Public Transport

Navigating public transportation and getting used to the different systems and schedules was initially challenging as well! 

Overall, while these changes were initially difficult, they ultimately contributed to my growth and adaptation to life in the UK.

Several things surprised me about living in Brighton: 

The People

Despite the reserved nature often attributed to British culture, I found the friendliness and openness of the people in Brighton to be pleasantly surprising, people were very welcoming and helpful!

The Culture

The vibrant and diverse cultural scene was quite surprising to me at first. Brighton is known for its arts and music festivals, and the sheer number and variety of events exceeded my expectations. The city’s inclusive and progressive atmosphere also stood out, making it a very accepting place for people from all walks of life. 

Public Transport

The efficiency and reliability of public transportation in the UK was impressive, especially compared to what I was used to. It made getting around quite convenient.

Sustainability

The UK’s emphasis on sustainability and environmental consciousness was something I hadn’t fully anticipated, but greatly appreciated. 

Work-Life Balance

The work-life balance in the UK was also a positive surprise. People here seem to prioritise their personal time and well-being more than in my home country, which contributed to a healthier and more enjoyable lifestyle.

Studying Abroad: How I Feel Now

I felt home sick the first two weeks in the UK, but I settled in well and made friends quickly. I managed to stay connected with friends and family in my home country through regular voice/video calls, messages and social media posts. These interactions provided comfort and reduced the feeling of being far away from them. Cooking familiar dishes with friends has also brought a sense of comfort and familiarity.  

The UK also has a rich and diverse culture, and the people are generally open to learning and experiencing new customs, traditions, and ways of life. I found this helped me adjust quickly and enjoy my time here and I’m sure it will help you if you choose to study here as well! 

 Joining clubs or societies is one of the best ways to meet new people and make friends.  

At the University of Brighton, there were fantastic support services included with my studies, they included academic support, mental support and career advice, which I found especially useful as an international student. 

It is also worth being aware that the cost of living may be higher in the UK than in your home country, so budgeting and keeping track of your spending will help avoid financial stress throughout your studies.  

For additional financial support, I would recommend taking on some of the many work opportunities available as a student. Working whilst studying provides experience of working in the UK and additional financial support. 

The University of Brighton itself offers many working opportunities to their students; I have taken part-time jobs for the university as a ‘Student Ambassador’ and have also worked as front of house staff for an agency. These roles helped me develop soft skills such as customer service, teamwork, and time management, which are valuable in any career.

How Studying Abroad Has Impacted My Future

Living and studying in a diverse environment like Brighton has broadened my worldview. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of different cultures and global issues, which has influenced my approach to problem-solving and decision-making.  

A module that I took in my final year involved working on a project with professional clients, this allowed me to network with potential employers and has provided potential career opportunities for me. 

The education I received at the University of Brighton has equipped me with valuable knowledge and skills in my field of study. The emphasis on critical thinking, research, and practical application has prepared me for the challenges of the professional world. 

Looking ahead, I’m excited about the opportunities before me, both in the UK and internationally. The education and experiences I’ve gained in Brighton have prepared me to pursue my career goals, and I’m eager to apply my skills in a professional setting. I’m also excited about the potential for further personal growth as I continue to explore new opportunities and challenges. 

I’m looking forward to continuing to build on the connections I’ve made during my time here and to contributing to my field in meaningful ways. The adaptability, resilience, and global perspective I’ve developed will be crucial as I navigate the next steps in my career.