Life as an international student at Birmingham

When I think back to my first year in Birmingham, the word that comes to mind is adjustment. Not in a negative way – more like learning a new rhythm. Moving countries at eighteen (or seventeen in my case) means everything changes at once: the weather, the food, the accents, the academic system, even the way people queue. It’s exciting, overwhelming, and strangely empowering all at the same time.

Arriving in a new country

Landing in Birmingham felt like stepping into a different version of myself. I was suddenly responsible for everything: navigating buses, figuring out where to buy groceries, understanding slang, and learning how to survive the cold. The city is busy and multicultural, but it took time before it felt familiar. What helped was realising that almost every international student around me was going through the same thing – the same confusion, the same excitement, the same “wait, why does it get dark at 4 pm?” shock.

Adjusting to university life

Academics were one of the biggest shifts. Coming from a different educational system, I had to get used to: independent learning, the structure of labs and group projects, and asking for help when I needed it. In first year, you’re figuring out how to study, how to manage your time, and how to balance life outside lectures. It’s messy at first, but you grow into it.

Finding community

One thing I learned quickly is that community doesn’t fall into your lap – you build it slowly. I wasn’t the type to join every society, but the ones I did attend made a difference. Even the ones I didn’t join made a difference to the people around me. Everyone was able to find a community either based on the cultures (for example the African & Caribbean Society or the Nigerian Society) or based on hobbies and interests through academic societies, sports societies, faith-based groups and so much more. You don’t have to join everything but sometimes attending one or two is enough to make campus feel less intimidating.

Food, comfort, and settling in

Food is one of the biggest adjustments for international students, especially picky eaters like me. I missed Nigerian food – the spice, the warmth, the comfort. Slowly I found my way around all of that. There are many Afro-Caribbean food shops in the city centre and Selly Oak, so I could still get all the ingredients I needed to make my cultural meals. I also discovered some UK foods I actually liked and learned to survive on quick meals during busy weeks. There’s something grounding about finding your own food routine in a new country.

Exploring Birmingham

Birmingham is a city that grows on you. In my first year I slowly explored the Bullring, small cafés, parks and a couple of restaurants. Even now in my third year, I still have quite a bit to explore, which goes to show how much this city has to offer.

Weather and seasonal changes

Nothing prepares you for your first UK winter, especially when coming from a tropical country. The cold is one thing, but the early sunsets are another. I quickly learned the importance of warm layers, hot drinks, staying active and finding cozy routines. Each year gets easier, but that first winter is a rite of passage.

Homesickness and growth

Homesickness can come in waves. Sometimes it’s triggered by food, a phone call, someone not understanding your jokes or references, and sometimes it’s triggered by nothing at all. But you also grow – in confidence, independence, and resilience. You learn how to take care of yourself, ask for help, and build a life that feels like yours.

What I wish I knew in first year

Everyone is figuring things out, even if they seem confident. Societies are there to help you find your people – you don’t have to join all of them. It helps to have a healthy balance between your academic and social life. Be adventurous and try new things. It’s okay to miss home and still love being here. Asking questions will save you a lot of time and stress. And, finally, Birmingham is a lot friendlier than it may seem at first.

Final thoughts

Being an international student at Birmingham is a journey of learning, adjusting, and discovering who you are away from home. It’s not always smooth, but it’s full of moments that shape you. Looking back, first year was the foundation – the year I learned the city, the university, and myself.