Off to the UK? Here’s Your Survival Guide UKT Students!
Uni Life Abroad
So, it’s finally happening. You’re packing your bags, saying dramatic goodbyes, and bracing yourself for a long-haul flight to the UK. You’ve probably heard it all— “It’s going to be freezing!” or “Don’t forget your Maggi mee!”—but let’s be real, no amount of unsolicited advice can truly prepare you for what’s ahead.
Moving halfway across the world for university is exciting, nerve-wracking, and just a tiny bit terrifying. But don’t worry, you’re not the first Malaysian student to embark on this grand academic adventure. You’ll figure it out—eventually.
In the meantime, take some time to read through this mini guide to help you ease into the UK student life without feeling completely lost.
The British Weather: A Lesson in Betrayal
Let’s get this out of the way—yes, it’s cold. But not just cold. The UK has this special ability to lull you into a false sense of security with a little sunshine, only to hit you with sudden rain, gale-force winds, and the kind of cold that makes you question all your life choices.
Invest in a PROPER coat (not the flimsy, ‘atas’ kind that just looks good in Instagram pictures), and get yourself a sturdy umbrella—though, let’s be honest, British wind will turn it inside out at least once a week. And don’t even think about packing just hoodies and expecting them to keep you warm. That’s cute.
Homesickness is Real, But You’ve Got This
You’re going to miss home. It might hit you in the middle of a Tesco aisle when you realise they don’t sell Milo, or when you’re craving mamak food at 2 AM and all you have is sad, overpriced takeaway. But the good news? You’ll survive.
Keep little reminders of home with you—photos, snacks (yes, pack that sambal), and maybe even your mum’s voice notes nagging you to eat properly. Call home often, but don’t overdo it. You’re here to grow, explore, and yes, occasionally eat instant noodles for three days straight because adulting is hard.
If you’re feeling particularly homesick, find a Malaysian or Southeast Asian society on campus. They’ll probably have a nasi lemak night at some point, and trust me, that plate of food will taste like pure joy (Just ignore the fact that it could potentially cost £14).
Making Friends: Yes, British People Are Friendly (Mostly)
Contrary to what TikTok might tell you, the British aren’t all emotionally distant, tea-drinking snobs. They can be very friendly, but here’s the trick—you need to make the first move. Don’t be afraid to start a conversation in class, join a society, or simply say "Alright?" when you pass someone in the hallway (which, by the way, is not an actual question—it’s just their version of “hi”).
British humour is mostly sarcasm and self-deprecation, so if someone makes fun of themselves, laugh along—it’s a bonding ritual. Also, if someone offers you a cup of tea, always say yes. It’s not just a drink; it’s a social contract.
Excelling in Your Studies (a.k.a. How to Avoid a Panic Attack Before Exams)
University in the UK is a little different from back home. Lecturers expect you to be independent—which basically means they won’t chase you for assignments, but they will roast you in front of the class if you turn in nonsense (no pressure).
Start your readings early, actually attend your lectures (watching the recordings at 2x speed does not count), and for the love of Lord Denning himself, don’t leave your essays until the night before. Yes, your seniors may have done it and survived, but at what cost?
Libraries will become your second home, but don’t spend all your time locked away in one. University is about balance—work hard but also make time for new experiences. After all, when else are you going to have the chance to randomly hop on a train to Scotland just because your flatmate dared you to?
Enjoy Every Moment
Before you know it, this crazy, whirlwind experience will be over. You’ll go from struggling to understand British accents to casually saying "cheers" instead of "thank you." You’ll find yourself adapting to the weird meal times (dinner at 5 PM? Seriously?), learning to appreciate questionable British food (looking at you, beans on toast), and—eventually—calling the UK your second home.
So, take it all in. Say yes to spontaneous plans, don’t be afraid to get lost (Google Maps will save you), and most importantly—remember why you’re here. This is your time to grow, learn, and create some of the best memories of your life.
And hey, if all else fails, at least you can always drown your sorrows in a good ol’ cup of Yorkshire Tea.
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