Hi! My name is Jen, and I’m from Nigeria. I am a postgraduate student studying Biotechnology within the Chemical Engineering department at Loughborough University. In this blog, I aim to provide advice and insights to international students at Loughborough University based on my own experiences.  

Join me on this exhilarating journey as I take you through my experience as an international student living in Loughborough and offer tips on managing your finances and budgeting as a student. 

The main reason I chose Loughborough was because I had done my research on the course and found that the modules offered best aligned with my interests and strengths compared to other UK universities. Loughborough town also has beautiful greenery that makes for scenic walks. 

Being an international student in a new environment is both exciting and stressful. However, I was able to manage the stress of this transition by utilising the resources provided by the University. 

Loughborough University offers a range of resources that have been invaluable to me as an international student. One of the most useful resources provided by Loughborough University is the Student Accommodation Centre. It equips students with the information needed to choose where to live, whether on or off campus, during their stay in Loughborough. 

Additionally, the University minimises costs for students by providing free access to Microsoft 365 software and offering free academic sessions on Learn, LinkedIn Learning, and Mendeley. These resources have been really helpful in furthering my career path and honing my research and study skills at no extra cost. The University’s Careers Network is also available to address any questions or concerns regarding your career path. 

I highly recommend Loughborough University because it provides international students with a platform to form communities that encourage personal growth. This is of the utmost importance when relocating, as it eases the adjustment period and process. 

Money management has been a significant part of my life, and as a student, I advise using budgeting apps to effectively manage your finances as they simplify the process. 

On average, I spend around £30 per week, including transportation, while at Loughborough. The easiest way to manage money is to cook your own meals at home. I cannot stress enough how much money you can save through home cooking, especially when you do a bulk food shop at the beginning of each month. 

For me, a monthly food shop is ideal because I am able to freeze certain products and maintain their freshness. Making a great meal at home gives me a sense of fulfilment, and I encourage students to aim to develop an interest in cooking while at university. 

Another tip that has helped me with money management is using food sharing apps such as Olio and Too Good To Go. With Olio, I was able to get farm-fresh produce and food stuff for free from kind neighbours in Loughborough. 

Both the Students’ Union shop and The Purple Onion shop in Loughborough University partner with the Too Good To Go app, and I encourage students to try it out. Not only will you get tasty meals at a discounted price, but you will also contribute to reducing food waste and promoting sustainable practices. 

Thanks to these tips and the availability of charity shops in Loughborough, living expenses fit well within my budget. 

The University also provides a wide range of events that cater to various interests, allowing students to enjoy leisure time right on campus. Events like the Fruit Routes harvest festival are available for students interested in sustainable food-making, while those with an interest in the arts and film can book a place at live performances on campus. 

When I’m not thrifting in the town centre, I enjoy walking along the Fruit Routes and picking up fruit, as students are encouraged to do so. This allows me to incorporate sustainability into my everyday life. There are often workshops for students interested in the arts, and I have attended a few on scrapbooking and painting, which were both enjoyable experiences for me. 

In conclusion, Loughborough University not only provides a quality education but also offers resources, support, and a vibrant community for international students. By effectively managing your finances and taking advantage of the available resources, you can have a fulfilling and successful experience at Loughborough. Remember to check your email and the student noticeboard on the University website for exciting activities lined up for you! 

I hope you have a wonderful academic year and the best of luck with your future endeavours! 

All the best, 

Jen