At Loughborough University, we pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming and diverse community that empowers students from all over the world to pursue their dreams, connect with peers, and grow in a supportive environment. In honor of International Students Day, we’ve gathered testimonials from international students to share their backgrounds, experiences, and advice for future students.

Nekbeer Mangat

Course: Economics BSc

Country: Singapore

Tell us about yourself and your time at Loughborough.

I’m 23 years old and served in the Army for two years before coming to the UK for university. I enjoy playing sports, mainly football and tennis. My time at Loughborough as been full of adventures and eye opening opportunities. There have been ups and downs, but it’s mostly been fun and I’m excited to see what comes next!

What’s your favorite thing about your home country?

Definitely the food, especially because my mother is there and she makes the best meals.

Why did you choose Loughborough?

The University’s sports facilities and high rankings really appealed to me. I also prefer rural areas over urban ones, as they’re less crowded and noisy, except on clubbing nights.

What’s been your favorite experience here?

Managing the Malaysian and Singaporean Society has been amazing. I didn’t expect to take on that role, but I loved helping freshers settle in and planning fun events.

Your advice for future international students?

It may be hard to grow out of your shell when moving to a different country, but once you meet the right people, the university experience becomes better and more enjoyable. So go out and join something that works for you, something that you find pleasure in, like sports, societies, clubs, or hall activities. You might just meet lifelong friends, even at a fire drill!

---

Sarjeel Rashid

Course: Mechanical Engineering PhD

Country: Bangladesh

Tell us about yourself and your time at Loughborough.

I completed my BEng in Mechanical Engineering here and did a research internship that led to my PhD offer. Loughborough has given me incredible opportunities to grow in my field.

What’s your favorite thing about your home country?

The people, the winter weather, and of course, the spicy food.

Why did you choose Loughborough?

My dad was doing his PhD here when I was applying to universities. I visited the beautiful campus before my A levels, and I was hooked!

What’s been your favorite experience here?

It’s a tie between joining the Hiking Club and volunteering for Lboro Sport. I’ve seen stunning UK landscapes and played badminton with people from around the world.

Your advice for future international students?

Academics come first, but get involved! Meeting people from different cultures can change your perspective on life. Join societies, volunteer, and keep an open heart and watch the most incredible people walk into your life!

---

Lisa Ndubai

Course: Business Analytics MSc

Country: Kenya

Tell us about yourself and your time at Loughborough.

I’m in my final year and love sports like football and futsal. My time at Loughborough has been full of varied and exciting experiences. I’ve met people from different backgrounds, each with interesting stories to share.

What’s your favorite thing about your home country?

The food and stable weather!

Why did you choose Loughborough?

I heard Loughborough had a strong reputation in sports and the Business School’s high ranking both appealed to me.

What’s been your favorite experience here?

Going to the yearly Loughborough town fair with my friends and trying out all the rides!

Your advice for future international students?

Get involved in as many extracurriculars as you can. It’s a fantastic way to make friends and have a diverse range of experiences.

---

Shirlyn Ng

Course: Media and Communications BSc

Country: Malaysia

Tell us about yourself and your time at Loughborough.

I’m in my final year and came to Loughborough as a non-athlete. Now, I’m deeply involved in the Recreational Sport program, encouraging students to stay active. It’s been a great way to try new sports and connect with others.

What’s your favorite thing about your home country?

The food! I especially miss my grandmother’s cooking.

Why did you choose Loughborough?

I wanted a university with high student satisfaction. Loughborough’s reputation in both student support and my course made it the ideal choice.

What’s been your favorite experience here?

Being part of multiple committees has allowed me to make a real impact on student life and I love being a course ambassador.

Your advice for future international students?

Branch out and meet different people. Your nationality’s community is important, but you’ll add so much to your experience by connecting with others

---

Jie Zhan

Course: Media and Communications BSc

Country: China

Tell us about yourself and your time at Loughborough.

I’m a media student who loves sketching and journaling. As an introvert, Loughborough has helped me find a balance between enjoying solitude and meaningful moments with friends.

What’s your favorite thing about your home country?

Our diverse culture and amazing food. China has so much to explore!”

Why did you choose Loughborough?

The media program is excellent, and the sports culture here inspired me to try new things and stay motivated.

What’s been your favorite experience here?

Being part of the International Student Network, where I’ve met incredible people and learned a lot through our events.

Your advice for future international students?

Don’t be afraid to communicate, even if English isn’t your first language. Approach cultural differences with curiosity, and you’ll find your place.

---

Geoffrey Sie

Course: Computer Science BSc

Country: Malaysia

Tell us about yourself and your time at Loughborough.

Hi, my name is Geoffrey, and I’m a Computer Science student currently in my placement year working in cybersecurity. I aspire to pursue a career in tech, ideally in cybersecurity or a related field.

What’s your favorite thing about your home country?

I love the diversity of our food—it’s unique because it comes from so many different cultures.

Why did you choose Loughborough?

I chose Loughborough because of its strong reputation in Computing and the beautiful campus atmosphere.

What’s been your favorite experience here?

My favorite experience has been the late-night study sessions with friends, although we didn’t get much studying done.

Your advice for future international students?

Always be on the lookout for new opportunities around campus, like Get Ahead Together and Study Café. They’re fantastic ways to meet new people and often come with lots of freebies!

---

Our international students bring their own cultures, perspectives and passions to our campus, making Loughborough a great place to live and learn. To all our international students, thank you for making Loughborough a diverse and welcoming community!