Life in the UK

May travelled from China to study Media and Cultural Studies at Lancaster University. She was nervous about moving around the world but found the UK to be a friendly and welcoming place to live and study.

My experience of studying in the UK

Written by Chongying Huang (May)

Hi! I’m May and I’m from China and I’m studying media and cultural studies.

I remember waving to my parents and sister in tears as I walked toward the security check at the airport – I was so nervous. The 13 hours-flight brought me to a country which I had never been to! Let me share my first-hand experience with you.

Before coming

It’s important to remember the two most important things you will need are your passport and money (as my father reminded me). I suggest checking those two things regularly during your journey. Also, a mobile phone charger is important so that you don’t need to worry about battery and can contact someone once you are in the UK if you need to.

The customs officers are all friendly, so don’t need to be nervous when they ask you questions.

My first impression of the UK and its people

Stepped down from the aeroplane, I collected two large suitcases and went to find the pick-up point, which I had booked earlier. Manchester airport was so unknown to me! To make sure I arrived on time, I asked people in the nearby shops about where to find the train station. Luckily, all the people I met were warm-hearted and enthusiastic. They pointed out clear directions for me and some even help lifted my suitcase to the elevator. So, my first impression of the UK people was that they were friendly and polite.

I arrived at the pick-up point on time. The girl who checked the booking was so patient - I cannot remember how many times I said ‘thank you’ within that hour. After around one hour’s drive, I arrived at Lancaster finally! Lancaster gives a delicate, quiet, and classic sense to me compared to the megacity where I come from.

Living in the UK

With regards to safety, I would say Lancaster is quite a safe place compared with other big cities. I haven’t encountered any safety problems since I arrived here. I lost my purse once but luckily somebody picked it and called the university. And remember to be alert with your belongings when visiting bigger cities, especially London.

One of the entrances to the University

Food from the supermarkets like “Marks and Spencer” or Sainsbury’s” are good. I would recommend South Asian and pizza restaurants such as Sultan of Lancaster and Pizza Republic at the University. There is also a good milk tea (bubble tea) shop in the town - so people who like milk tea don’t have to worry!

The transportation in Lancaster is also quite good. Buses from the ‘Underpass’ (the main University bus stop) can bring you to the nearby cities and parks. There is also a pharmacy and dentist at the University, so you don’t need to worry about buying medicine or when you have problems with your teeth.

Travel in the UK

I would recommend two places in particular for a visit. The first is London, where you can enjoy sightseeing in the city centre. Buckingham Palace and Big Ben are definitely worth visiting. And, to experience a great British flavour, get a classical British afternoon tea set from Fortnum and Mason!

Tower Bridge in London

The Lake District (a UNESCO World Heritage Site!) is the second place that I would suggest you go. The scenes of the lakes are quite beautiful. Many swans can be found beside the lakes and the people there are nice and friendly. By the way, I recommend getting ice cream there – I love it!

Swans in the Lake District

I hope every first-year student has a lovely journey to the UK!

Find out more about life in Lancaster and the surrounding area.