Leaving my home in Hyderabad, India, to study in Aberdeen was one of the biggest decisions of my life. Coming from a single-parent family, with my mother and younger sister as my strongest supporters, the journey carried a deep sense of purpose. Every step I took abroad was not just for me, but for all three of us.
Arriving in Aberdeen
When I first arrived in Aberdeen, everything felt unfamiliar - the cool air, the quiet streets, and the feeling of being far from home. But I also felt a quiet excitement. The University’s support during those early days helped me adjust quickly. From navigating buses to discovering where to buy groceries, each experience slowly made Aberdeen feel more comfortable.
One of my earliest memories here is walking through the King’s College campus. It's beautiful buildings and peaceful atmosphere gave me a sense of reassurance that I had chosen the right place.
Adjusting to life in a new country
Moving from the bustling streets of Hyderabad to the calm surroundings of Aberdeen was a big change. I learned to appreciate this slower pace of life. People here are warm, polite and always willing to help - whether it was answering simple questions or pointing me towards stores where I could find Indian spices.
I built daily routines that helped me feel grounded: video calls with my mother and sister, weekend cooking sessions and quiet walks around the city. Slowly, Aberdeen began to feel less like a temporary place and more like a second home.
Becoming more independent and confident
Adjusting to student life in a new country brought challenges, but it also helped me grow. By joining student societies and engaging in campus events, I met people from different cultures who were going through similar experiences. These connections helped me build confidence and enjoy life beyond academics.
Winter was probably the biggest adjustment - shorter days and colder weather - but learning to embrace new experiences made me stronger. Through everything, my family’s support kept me going, especially my mother, who always reminded me of why I began this journey.
A proud moment: my Graduation
One of the most special parts of my journey was seeing my mother attend my graduation. Having her travel all the way from India to stand beside me on that important day meant more than words can express. It was a beautiful reminder of how far we had come together as a family. That moment made all the challenges, homesickness and hard work truly worth it.
My advice for future international students
- Give yourself time to settle
- Ask for help whenever you need it
- Stay connected to home
- Get involved and meet new people
Studying in Aberdeen has been a life-changing experience. It taught me independence, resilience and the importance of community. I hope my story encourages other international students to begin their own journeys with confidence and an open mind.
