Living away from home: From Singapore to Birmingham

Leaving home for medical school is never an easy decision, especially when “home” is a 14 hour flight away. Being a Singaporean medic studying in Birmingham, was not easy when I first got here.

During my first few days here (which is almost four years ago, how crazy?), I can still vividly remember how sun was setting so early and how everyone I met spoke a different accent. It was fascinating but at the same time overwhelming. The stress of starting medical school, moving into student accommodation and trying to meet new friends was a whirlwind. Every grocery run was like a mini adventure. Figuring out which supermarket carried the brands I recognised or learning that “crisps” weren’t quite the same as “chips.” The drastic change in weather was also something I had to adapt to. From the hot and humid tropical weather in Singapore to a chilly climate here, it is quite a change.

Even though, settling in was not easy I was very lucky to have made friends during my Fresher’s week, which helped and supported me during this difficult time. The different events across campus really helped us international students to settle in. These events helped us better understand our campus and the city of Birmingham itself. The Birmingham medical school also held an international student meet-up, where they got older years to come and share their experiences, which I found really useful. It is always nice to hear from someone who may shares the same experience as me. I have also joined the UoB Singapore society, where I get to mingle with peers from home. The Singaporean accent has never sounded so calm and stress-relieving (maybe it is just me haha). Joining a sports society and getting a gym membership in Sports and Fitness had really helped with my mental health during this period as well.

As semesters zoom past one after another, I started to adapt better and become more comfortable living and studying here. My social circle branched out, as I made more friends on my course either through placement or at random house parties. I started to understand British slang and different accents of the UK a bit better (the scouse accent is still a bit of a struggle for me). Now, I think it is safe to say that I have finally “settled-in”. At times, I still miss home truly and dearly. In times like that, I often just ring up my home pals to have a little 'banter' (I am learning) or go to my favourite Singaporean/Malaysian restaurant in the city centre. They really do work as a quick relief for my homesickness.

Living abroad can be really really daunting, and I don’t want to sugar coat it. However, the friends and memories that I have made here makes it all worth it. Leaving your comfort zone is never easy but taking that little step out can really change your perspective of the world.