{"id":5982,"date":"2025-07-09T12:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-07-09T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.lboro.ac.uk\/students\/?p=5982"},"modified":"2025-09-25T15:43:59","modified_gmt":"2025-09-25T14:43:59","slug":"my-vibrant-journey-as-an-international-student-at-loughborough-university","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.lboro.ac.uk\/students\/advice\/my-vibrant-journey-as-an-international-student-at-loughborough-university\/","title":{"rendered":"My vibrant journey as an international student at Loughborough University"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Hey there! I’m Derrick, an international student from India who just finished my Master’s in Analytical Chemistry at Loughborough University. Reflecting on my time here, it\u2019s been an incredible mix of challenging academics, new friendships, and unforgettable experiences. Now, as I prepare to start my PhD here in October, I want to share my story to help future students make the most of their Loughborough journey\u2014both inside and outside the classroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/a>Adjusting to life in the UK<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Moving from India to the UK was a big step, but Loughborough made it smooth. I chose a shared house over university accommodation\u2014it was cheaper and helped me bond with amazing people from different backgrounds. Some of my best memories are from late-night kitchen chats and weekend trips with my housemates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Financially, I took on a part-time retail job to cover expenses. Balancing work and studies wasn\u2019t always easy, but it taught me time management (and how to make a great cup of coffee). If you’re worried about money, check out the University\u2019s Student Services\u2014there are plenty of student-friendly roles and other helpful resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/a>Study smart, play hard<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

I stuck to a simple rule: don\u2019t study where you sleep.<\/em> The STEM Lab and Library became my go-to spots for productivity, especially during exams with their 24\/7 access. Home was strictly for relaxing, cooking and fun. This separation kept me focused and maintained a healthy work-life balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/a>Building a social life<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The people at Loughborough made my experience unforgettable. I joined the Asian Society and attended university events, which helped me meet people with similar interests. Weekends often meant pub trips or nights out at the Students\u2019 Union with friends. When I needed alone time, I\u2019d go hiking or take solo trips\u2014nothing beats fresh air and a good view to clear your mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

My advice? Say yes to new experiences, whether it\u2019s a society event, a spontaneous trip, or trying a new hobby. Those moments turn into your best memories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/a>What\u2019s next?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

After falling in love with research during my Master\u2019s, I\u2019m excited to start my PhD at Loughborough this October. I\u2019m still working part-time, saving up, and counting down the days until I\u2019m back in the lab.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And don’t let the lab coat fool you\u2014I’m the guy who’ll celebrate finishing exams by leading the charge to the pub for some well-earned pints. After all, what’s science without a little balance and a good time?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/a>Final Tips for Future Students<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
    \n
  1. Embrace the chaos\u2014uni life is a mix of deadlines, laughter, and occasional madness. Enjoy it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Work hard, play harder\u2014don\u2019t forget to have fun. Join societies, explore, or just relax with friends.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Ask for help\u2014whether it\u2019s academic support or just someone to talk to, Loughborough\u2019s well-being community is there to help.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Looking back, choosing Loughborough was one of the best decisions I\u2019ve ever made. It pushed me academically, introduced me to lifelong friends, and gave me memories I\u2019ll cherish forever. To anyone starting their journey here\u2014get ready for an adventure that\u2019s challenging, rewarding, and absolutely unforgettable. And if you ever see me around campus, don\u2019t hesitate to say hello and grab my attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Cheers,
    Derrick<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Hey there! I’m Derrick, an international student from India who just finished my Master’s in Analytical Chemistry at Loughborough University. Reflecting on my time here, it\u2019s been an incredible mix of challenging academics, new friendships, and unforgettable experiences. 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