Ghanaian student Favour shares how she slowly became more confident settling into life at the University of Birmingham.
Moving to the UK for my postgraduate studies was exciting, but it also came with a lot of uncertainty. Days before I arrived, I received an email from the University titled “Welcome to the University of Birmingham.” It was a small message, but it gave me my first sense of reassurance. It had all the information I needed as an international student including the links, contacts and the names of support services and campus resources that would make navigating university easier.
Pro tip: If you are arriving soon, read the welcome info slowly. It really helps.
As funny as it sounds now, one of my biggest fears at the beginning was using the train. I was intimidated by the entire system; "How do buy a ticket?", "Where do I stand?", "Do I look confused?". I was worried I would make a mistake and everyone would notice. Because of this, I barely left my accommodation for almost two weeks. And when I did, whether it was to attend lectures or pick up groceries, I walked everywhere.
Looking back, I laugh at myself because now I travel easily, even to cities outside Birmingham!
What changed things for me were the friends I made, who patiently introduced me to the rail system. They helped me get my railcard, book tickets, and even figure out bus routes. And once I finally started using public transport, everything became so much easier.
Pro tip: Ask a flatmate or coursemate to show you one journey. You will probably do it again alone within a week.
Another thing that really helped me was learning about the discounts available for students. I was especially grateful for the free four-week bus ticket during Welcome Week. This meant I could move around without worrying about costs in those first weeks. Even later, the Swift card, West Midlands Railway’s 50% discounts, and the UoB bus discounts made commuting more affordable and less stressful. These small savings removed a lot of the pressure to stay put and gave me the confidence to explore.
The MyUoB app became my go-to for campus maps, building locations and University updates. The campus map saved me so many times, especially when I had early-morning seminars in buildings I had never seen before.
Apart from attending my lectures and seminars, I knew I wanted to meet people and grow outside the classroom. So I joined the Women in Politics Society, where I eventually served as an International Officer, and I connected with the postgraduate community. I also joined the Black Scholars Network, a relatively new community on campus that connects Black scholars across the University whether you are a PGR, PGT, UG, or staff member. Now I contribute as the Co-Comms Lead. Taking up these roles gently nudged me beyond my comfort zone. I had responsibilities, but also people who supported me. Being around others with shared interests also motivated me to contribute more, hold conversations and build confidence in unfamiliar spaces.
And of course, there was the challenge of making friends. It can feel daunting, especially when you are in a new environment. But one thing I have learned is that many people feel that way. Most people are just as eager to connect, but it takes someone to make the first move. I started conversations in interview queues, during societies socials, and after seminars. It was awkward at first, but often worth it.
Pro tip: Try saying hello first. You never know, the other person might be waiting for someone to break the ice.
Reflecting on my journey, I was once hesitant to take a train and now I can confidently travel with ease. This growth started with one small step. If you’re an international student finding your way, be patient with yourself. You will find your rhythm, your community, and eventually, your confidence.
MSc Development Policy and Politics student at University of Birmingham
