Living, learning, and layering up – Bangkok to UK master’s adventure
Why I chose MSc Financial Mathematics
Hi! I am Kant, before coming to Loughborough, I completed my undergraduate degree in Actuarial Science and worked for a few years in the insurance industry as a data analyst. During that time, I realized I wanted to deepen my understanding of financial models and gain skills that would allow me to work internationally, especially in investment and quantitative roles. That is what led me to pursue an MSc in Financial Mathematics.
Loughborough stood out because of its strong academic reputation, supportive environment, and the chance to study in the UK, a country that balances tradition and innovation in education. It felt like the right place to grow, both professionally and personally.
Moving from Thailand to the UK – Weather differences, cultural adjustments, and food

Moving from Thailand to the UK was a big shift, especially when it came to the weather. I went from sunny, tropical days to grey skies, chilly wind, and needing to check the forecast before going anywhere. It took some time to adjust, especially during the darker winter months, but layering up and having a warm drink nearby helped.
Culturally, things felt more reserved compared to back home, but people are polite and helpful once you start engaging with them. The university environment is also very international, so I never felt out of place.

For the food, honestly, I did not really get into British food much. I found myself cooking Thai dishes almost every day. From stir-fries and curries to simple rice and omelettes, it became my daily comfort. It helped me deal with homesickness and made life feel a bit more normal. Luckily, there is an Asian supermarket in town where I could buy Thai ingredients, like jasmine rice, fish sauce, and even chili paste. That place became my go-to spot!
Learning at university – Study techniques, adjusting after working, and participating in events

Transitioning from full-time work back into student life was a challenge, but also incredibly rewarding. When you are used to 9-to-5 routines, suddenly managing your own time again can feel both freeing and overwhelming. I found it helpful to plan my weeks like I did at work—scheduling lectures, assignments, and revision blocks into my calendar. That helped keep me disciplined while still leaving room for rest and spontaneous meetups.
Loughborough offers great academic support. I regularly joined careers sessions and employer events run by the School of Science, which helped me understand how to apply my learning in real-world roles. There were also coding workshops, which were particularly useful for brushing up on Python and R—skills that are vital in this field.
4. Day-to-day life – Making friends, leisure activities, study spots, and accommodation
My day-to-day life in Loughborough strikes a good balance between study, sports, and social time. One of the highlights for me has been playing football, something I have always enjoyed. I regularly join friendly matches, and I have even taken part in friendly tournaments with other Thai societies across the UK. It is not just about football; it is also a great way to stay connected with other Thai students and feel a bit more at home.
Most of my close friends here are also Thai, and we often meet up after classes, whether it is for dinner, a short trip out of town, or just a relaxed movie night. Sometimes we go for a round of golf or simply hang out and chat. These little moments really help break up the study pressure and make everything more enjoyable.
When it comes to studying, I usually prefer staying in my room. I live off-campus, which has been a good fit for me. It is quiet, comfortable, and gives me the privacy I need to concentrate. I tend to do most of my reading and assignments there. But when I feel like a change of scene, I will sometimes head to the library or postgraduate study zones on campus, which are great when you need to focus without distractions.
5. Conclusion – Reflections on studying at Loughborough and advice for future students
Looking back, studying at Loughborough has been more than just an academic journey, it has been a year of growth, exploration, and self-discovery. I have learned technical skills that are directly useful in the finance world, but I have also learned how to adapt, connect, and thrive in a new environment.
For future students, especially those coming from abroad or returning to study after working, give yourself time. It is okay to feel overwhelmed at first. Just start build a study routine, stay curious, and make the most of the resources here. And most importantly, enjoy every moment here. Loughborough is not just a place to study, but a place to grow.
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