'Get a high-quality education and graduate faster in the UK'

Katiana, from the US, is currently studying genetics at the University of Manchester. Despite initial nerves about moving abroad for the first time, she quickly made friends, got valuable hands-on training at a top university, and made the most of travelling around the UK and volunteering with a local dog association.

'By studying in the UK, you can save money, get a high-quality education and graduate faster'

When I was applying, I wasn't sure whether to study zoology or genetics, so I chose a university that offered both. I looked at schools (universities) worldwide because I was open to travelling, and I found that the University of Manchester, which is a top school, had much more affordable tuition compared to schools in the US. I've always been interested in the UK – I love the culture, and there was no language barrier, which made it easier to adjust to living in a new place.

'My professors are genuine experts in their field'

I love that the professors at my school and the people that I know, are really passionate about their education and their experience. I haven't met anybody that just didn't really seem to care for their course, or didn't have a passion about the school. I have every every professor I've had I've been really lucky with. They are genuine experts in their field, they are really passionate about it, and they are amazing teachers. So the education here has been exactly what I wanted. I couldn't be more grateful for that.

‘The friends I made here were a community instantly’

I had so much travel anxiety before I came to the UK because I knew it would be so far outside my comfort zone, but I knew that I had to do it to pursue an international career. It felt like the natural choice for me and my progression. I’d never been to the UK or even left the US, so it was a big deal to move straight to a country I’d never even visited. The hardest part for me was preparing to get here. Arriving and settling in was much easier because the people here were so supportive, and the friends I made were a community instantly. Now that I’ve made that big leap and I’m here in the UK, the anxiety has gone.

To begin with, I was worried I would have a hard time making friends and that there would be a barrier because I was American and they were British. But if anything, it's helped me a little bit because people want to start conversations with me. And they have questions, which I'm more than happy to answer. Making friends here was something that everybody wanted to do. So everybody was eager to get to know each other. There are so many international students here, and even students from the UK have such diverse backgrounds that I have a lot to learn from them. In every conversation, I learn about other people, where they're from and what they want to share with me. Getting to know them better and having fun with them was amazing. We made lasting friendships that have continued for the rest of the year and are going to continue for multiple years to follow.

'Manchester is incredibly diverse, and there's something here for everyone'

I love cooking, playing music, and doing art—three of my favourite hobbies. The university has societies dedicated to all of these interests, and I plan to join the Music Society next year once I bring my instrument to the UK. Manchester is incredibly diverse and there’s something here for everyone. It's easy to meet new friends and discover new things to do, whether through university clubs or just exploring social media for local activities. The city's vibrant atmosphere makes it accessible for anyone wanting to dive into new experiences.

'I've enjoyed travelling around the UK'

Outside of university, I've also enjoyed travelling and visiting friends in different parts of the UK. My favourite trip so far was to Rochester, which was amazing because of its rich history. Seeing my first castle, beautiful cathedrals, and exploring old pubs, bookshops, and vintage stores was everything I’d imagined about the UK. While I love Manchester, Rochester captured that dream of classic England for me. I’ve also visited Surrey, Birmingham, and Nottingham, and I can't wait to go back and explore more. There are still so many places on my UK bucket list.

'Sometimes the best moments come from small gatherings with friends'

One of my favourite memories here was a simple game night with friends in our dorm. It was such a fun way to connect, and even those who don't usually play games really enjoyed it. It just goes to show that you don't always need to go out to have a good time—sometimes the best moments come from small gatherings with friends. It was a great way to bond and have fun, even for someone like me who's not big on clubbing.

'I've had the chance to volunteer, helping care for puppies training to become assistance dogs'

I aspire to be an animal geneticist and have always enjoyed working with animals. That’s what I did back in the US, and I continue to pursue it here. While I don’t currently have a formal job working with animals, there are many opportunities to interact with dogs and volunteer with pets at local shelters. Manchester is incredibly dog-friendly, with plenty of events and spaces—like outdoor markets and cafes—where people can bring their dogs. I’ve also had the chance to volunteer at a nearby dog association, helping to care for puppies in training to become assistance dogs.

'The hands-on experience I get in university labs is a huge advantage'

In terms of how my course is preparing me for work, I think the biggest impact has been adapting to a new environment and learning how to be flexible in different situations. One key aspect was learning French in my first year—although it was my fifth year studying the language, it was my first year learning it at university level and in the UK. Since I want a career with an international focus, improving my French is really beneficial for being able to communicate globally.

The hands-on experience in university labs is also a huge advantage. The education here is far beyond what I experienced in high school. In my first semester, I learned techniques that could qualify me for a lab technician job—skills I wouldn’t have picked up otherwise. This practical knowledge directly applies to the type of jobs I’m interested in, and I know it’s valuable for others pursuing similar careers. I appreciate how much real-world preparation I'm getting through these lab experiences.

'By studying in the UK, you'll get international experience, step out of your comfort zone, and benefit your career'

For anyone considering studying in the UK, I’d say do your research. While living costs, visas, and other expenses add up, it's more cost-effective than studying in the US. You can graduate faster, get a high-quality education, and even access scholarships, which is a great value compared to what you'd pay in the US. The offers I received from American schools had much higher tuition. Studying here has saved me money, given me a great degree, and allowed me to graduate faster. Plus, you're getting an international experience, stepping out of your comfort zone, and learning valuable skills that will benefit your career.