The University City

For many, the chance to study and get academic qualifications in another country is just a dream. However, for those who can afford it, the United Kingdom offers world renowned schools and universities. Factors to consider are what exactly you want to study and where you want to study. Famous seats of learning such as Oxford and Cambridge Universities in England have limited places and strict criteria. Furthermore, you will have completion for the limited places against all the school leavers with excellent grades from all over the U.K The cost of studying a degree and, living in certain parts of the U.K often deters many from even applying. London is a major draw for many foreign students with a wealth of universities, colleges and academies. There is a massive trend at the moment for wealthy Chinese families to send their children to British universities and schools as the standard of education is regarded as very high, and well respected.

Universities which also suffer from funding problems have increased their intake of foreign students not to fulfil a quota but because foreign students pay more. A student life can be financially difficult especially if you are away from home for the first time. You are in an unfamiliar city, possibly sharing a house or a flat with people you’ve never met that can hardly communicate with one another because of language difficulties. It could also be the first time you will be financially independent with responsibility for your own spending, with bills, rent, food, study materials, travel costs, books and money for actually being able to enjoy yourself occasionally. Some students get financial support from their parents, but for those who don’t, the only way to get extra money is to find a job! This can be difficult in a university city with thousands of students. Most part time jobs that would be available are already taken by students.

In comparison to all the negatives, student life can also be full of rewards. New friends, the opportunity to visit new places and being responsible for your own actions with no parents telling you what you should or shouldn’t be doing. Lots of universities also offer the opportunity to join clubs and have social events and most importantly a student bar where the prices are usually cheaper than the local bars. In addition there is a lot of choice of places to study, with England and Scotland offering very high standards of education. Usually, you will have to make a choice of three universities; a preferred choice, a secondary choice and a third choice. Be careful to research what you want to study and which university offers you the best in what you’re looking for.

D. Lindsay