Thursday 21-09-2023 - 11:23

 

 

Welcome to Lancaster! With over one third of both the student and faculty population of the University being from overseas, we foster a highly diverse community of individuals from all parts of the globe. To get you started on the necessary preparations, I've compiled advice from our international students into 10 top tips to help you get smoothly accustomed to living in Lancaster.

 

#1: Get involved in the International Forum

 

 

The International Forum is a group run by members of our international community. We bring international students together such as meet and greets, game nights and society events. It's also a place where you can raise any inquiries and concerns you may have during your time here. Attending these events also gives you the opportunity to connect with other international students at Lancaster, who you may not have met otherwise. 

 

#2: Join a society

 

 

Lancaster offers over a hundred different societies that run frequent events and get together after class hours. These range from cultural groups (Chinese, Italian, etc) to hobby-based collectives (Baking, Acapella, etc) to sports clubs (Badminton, Football, etc) and so much more! All societies are student-led making them a great opportunity to get yourself involved with the University, get to know more people and keep yourself busy during your spare time. 

 

#3: Visit the town

 

 

Knowing your way around town is equally as important as knowing your way around campus. While the uni offers their own small grocery stores and eateries, shops in town can sometimes be cheaper, and offer a greater variety of options. It’s a great place to go shopping for winter clothes, and is especially exciting for exploring the local museum, bars, and town festivities! During the summer, the parks and fields are especially ideal for picnics and calm study sessions.

 

#4: Open a bank account

 

 

One of your top priorities should be opening a bank account. Here you can store any money you have on hand, and apply for a credit card which would make transactions a lot smoother, since some shops on campus only accept card. Make sure to have the necessary requirements to open your bank account (your BRP, Passport, etc.), and apply as soon as you’ve moved into your accommodation, as the process takes at least 4 weeks, and uses your location to verify that you’re a student. It’s recommended that you bring your own credit card from your home country, so that you don’t run out of cash.

 

#5: Make use of student discounts

 

 

As you are now a student at Lancaster, you are eligible for several student discounts! Some of these rewards are only redeemable at corresponding app, such as the Greggs app which allows you a free drink upon first downloading it. Other apps such as the UniDays app and the VoucherCodes app allow you to find discounts, freebies, and coupons across multiple shops, on campus and in town. Your freshers pack should contain links and QR codes to some of these apps, so be on the lookout!

 

#6: Start meal planning

 

 

On top of trying to adjust to living in a foreign country, many of us are trying to adjust to being independent. If you’re struggling with cooking during your first few days, check out Lancaster’s Freedom Eat’s Scheme. Here you are allowed two meals a day from any on campus eatery. You may also want to visit Central and SPAR for convenient snacks and groceries once you are on campus. Most importantly, you need to create a set meal plan, as your lectures can have as much as a 4 hour gap in between. Make sure to budget accordingly, and keep yourself well-nourished.

 

#7: Keep a healthy work-life balance

 

 

A part of uni culture in the UK for some people is partying. In fact – attending night outs and bar crawls are some of the best places for you to meet new people, especially during Freshers Week. So while studying and revising are incredibly important, so is expanding your social circle and making new connections. Hence, make sure you’re taking time to destress and truly enjoy your free time while you can! There are also lots of opportunities to meet new people without the partying if you prefer by getting involved in international and cultural societies and other groups. 

 

#8: Don't be afraid to ask for help

 

 

Uprooting your life to study abroad isn’t an easy journey. Many international students may experience anxiety, homesickness, and loneliness especially during their first weeks there. Because of this, the university offers both academic and welfare support that you can utilize whenever necessary. For your mental health, each college has respective counselors who you can speak to regarding your current state; whereas for your studies, your lecturers are always open for consultation.

 

#9: Take part in volunteering and leadership roles

 

 

Whether it's by running for a place in the JCR, representing the university on the sports team, or simply being an active society member, it’s a great time for you to foster your leadership skills, and find your place at the university. The more involved you are, the more opportunities will come knocking your way! Taking on a part time job at Lancaster is also a great option, as the process is a lot easier than those in some other countries. Not only will these activities hone your practical skills – they help bolster your CV, which goes a long way in ensuring your success during and after university.

 

#10: Fully immerse yourself!

 

 

Lastly, just make the most of it! Though it is a daunting experience at first, Lancaster is truly open and supportive towards international students; hence their large population. Join that club — speak to that person – go to that event, the list goes on! There are so many great chances for you to thrive at university. Once you make that first step, everything should fall into place shortly thereafter.