The first week

Due to a delay in my visa process, I arrived three weeks late to university. It was evening when my flight landed, and I had classes the very next morning. You can imagine the distorted and overwhelming emotions I must have experienced during that first week. I had to immediately apply for an Exceptional Circumstances extension for the essay due the next Monday. But thankfully, my stress was extinguished soon enough.

Even though I was unsure about how I would adapt to the UK’s academic system, I realised I was not alone. All my tutors were helpful in guiding me through the coursework with the utmost patience and kindness. Importantly, the Academic Skills class I was enrolled in as an international student made me aware of the immeasurable support being offered by the university.

Settling in

My situation brightened up in the next few weeks as I started to enjoy the university life: regular trips to local bookshops, cafes, libraries, and the place I have now begun to call my haven: Botanic Gardens. Be it a stroll through the palm house or the tropical ravine or the lush landscape of the gardens, this place is my designated escape.

Before I knew it, Queen’s became the home I was dearly cherishing. An environment where you belonged, no matter where you are from, or how your life used to be previously. I loved taking refuge in the Peter Froggatt Centre couches between my classes, and walking through the campus filled with greenery and architectural beauty.

The lectures I attended amused and enlightened me, and the tutorial discussions were thought-provoking in the best way. As an English student, I also had the pleasure of attending many movie screenings relevant to our module. I particularly enjoyed watching Othello and Wuthering Heights in the Emeleus Lecture Theatre. 

Exploring Belfast

I no longer felt unsettled or weary as a sense of calmness enveloped me with the autumn season greeting Belfast. I live in the city centre, so my most favourite hangout spots include the following: the Jamaica Blue cafe, the Oxfam bookshop, the Harbour Marina, and the Cineworld complex. I will always advocate for the ambience maintained in Jamaica Blue, and the heavenly taste of their iced latte and brownie combination.

Though Waterstones is close by too, your go-to place for second hand fiction is obviously Oxfam. Having explored various coastal spots in Belfast, the reason the harbour stands out is its display of varied stationary boats where you can stop for some peace and spot seagulls and pigeons while you are at it. On the weekends, you can treat yourself to a movie in Cineworld and a meal in Zizzi’s, just like I always do!

Travelling five-thousand miles from my home country and experiencing a culture completely different from mine is both a privilege and a delight. Although it must be admitted that my tongue missed the flavour of Indian food, my situation soon changed when I started learning to cook South Indian cuisine during my second semester. I have, quite surprisingly, developed my culinary skills, and can satisfy the cravings of home food now.

Managing the transition to university

Transitioning to university from school is not just a difficult journey academically, as it also undeniably transforms your personal life. You are placed in a position to improve your independent lifestyle, confidence, communication, time management, and your overall social life. Seize the opportunity but remember to be kind to yourself at the same time.

Looking back, my heart is only filled with gratitude. Anxious moments do not last beyond the circumstance. The one question the immigration officer asked upon my arrival is whether I was determined enough to complete my studies. I affirmed my confidence, and I have not doubted myself since. Queen’s proved to be the kind of university I always dreamt of studying in, and I am fortunate enough to live that dream. I have ultimately changed in a lot of ways since I got here. In authentic, real ways.

The initial intimidation has now become a story of the past, as I continue to explore the vibrant opportunities offered by the university. Coping during assignment weeks could be perfectly tackled with a little (okay, a lot of) coffee, and locking in at the McClay Library. I specifically recommend the C.S. Lewis Reading Room where you can relax in a magical setting! 

Student support and services

Also, I recently attended the SU Awards as my sister’s plus one. As she climbed the stage to receive her individual achievement award, I felt immensely proud. The event was grandly conducted, and it was my first exposure to how the Students' Union works in helping students achieve their full potential, opening opportunities to make a change while contributing to the community. The Union also engages in a wide range of initiatives, providing maximum support possible for every student.

In Queen’s, the support and services offered are tremendous, catering to every single need of the students, and smoothly facilitating an education that includes extracurricular activities too. I feel grateful to be here and experience this life. From a disoriented student to a confident and committed one, this was how my first year looked!

Find out more

India: Admissions Guide

Adapting to a New Learning Environment as an International Student

International Students at Queen’s: Experiences in Belfast and Beyond

Magdalene Natasha Charles Anthropology and English | Undergraduate Student | India I'm an undergraduate student pursuing Anthropology and English at Queen's. Originally from Chennai, India, I've now moved to Belfast for my studies. In my free time, I like to write poetry, and I've self-published my own collection ('Subdued Cries' on Amazon). I'm an aspiring novelist and I hope to inspire people through my writing journey. I also journal, and am fond of frolicking (or taking calming walks) through parks and gardens. I'm extremely passionate about reading and my current favourite is The Secret History by Donna Tartt. I'm constantly looking for ways to improve my personal and professional skills, and hope to gain meaningful experience during my time here at Queen's.