Want more wrestling news, rumors, and results? Be sure to visit PWInsider.com and PWInsiderXtra.com.
It’s exciting to move to the UK as a U.S. student, but it’s also a major challenge. Not only are you learning a new way of studying and a whole new set of cultural mores, you have to do it on the fly. For students overwhelmed by the transition and academic workload, UKWritings.com offers valuable writing help. With their services, you can pay someone to write essay assignments, allowing you to focus on settling in and exploring your new environment. This guide will help you prepare for your journey and get the most out of your time studying in the United Kingdom.
The first difference most US visitors observe is that, except in a few universities that are now migrating to the US model, the first degree (BA) will take you just three years, not the four that is usual in the US. The academic year has three terms and, although you might think that you will spend many more hours in a classroom than in the UK, the reverse is the case, with much more emphasis on independent study.
Second, the UK usually doesn’t have a broad-based first- or second-year undergraduate curriculum (a general education course) that’s a prerequisite for specializing in a certain subject, as is common in the US. You could be diving in at the ‘deep end’ almost right away, so to speak. Third, grades might be awarded on a different scale, sometimes as percentages or on a classification such as First Class, Upper Second Class, Lower Second Class, Third Class and so on.
When adjusting to life in the UK, finding an essay writer for hire UK can be a great way to manage academic challenges while exploring the rich culture and history of your new surroundings. We speak the same language, but it won’t take long for you to realize that British English has a bunch of its own quirks, and deviations from US and other strains of English. There are a few words that mean different things, but even more fun are the expressions you might or might not know. When a Brit tells you that they are ‘knackered’, they mean very tired. If a Brit says they are going to get you a ‘biscuit’, they are actually getting you a cookie.
But beware: you could be asked to take a walk down to the loo, rather than the bathroom; take the lift, not the elevator; and go on holiday, rather than take a vacation. Part of the joy of yummy Britishness is a seeming readiness to go with the flow and allow a few cheeky new expressions into your own repertoire.
While British culture in many ways is similar to US culture, there are some undercurrents worth being aware of. Although there are few overt differences with the US, you might notice that the British are known for their politeness and reserve. It’s common for people less explicitly friendly at first than in the US. But you shouldn’t think of this as rudeness. The British are simply less outwardly friendly in terms of casual banter.
Queuing (or lining up) is a particularly serious matter here. When joining a queue, wait patiently and observe the right order, or you will be scorned as a foreigner. Likewise, be prepared to discuss the weather lots. It is our favorite subject.
You might be used to a more direct sense of humor than the British one. Expect a lot of dry wit, sarcasm and self-deprecation. You might even wonder if a Brit is joking with you – but don’t be offended if they are. A self-deprecating joke is common, so don’t get upset if someone takes a (small) swipe at you. This is usually a good sign – they’re probably a friendly person, making fun of the both of you.
Here’s a little insight for international students: the UK healthcare system is great, but only if you’re British. If you’re a UK resident, you’ll receive all care under the National Health Service, which is free. If you’re a student visiting the UK for more than six months, after paying a healthcare surcharge you’ll receive NHS services for free as well.
However, you’ll need to register with a local GP – general practitioner – relatively soon after your arrival. Your GP is your primary contact for most health problems. Emergency care is provided at a hospital Accident and Emergency (A&E) department.
There is a saying in English that you have to ‘earn your crust’ and this means ‘to work hard to survive’. Life in the UK can be quite costly, and this is especially true of larger cities like London. Therefore, you need to budget wisely, and also consider the cost of living in the area in which you stay.
|
Expense Category |
UK (in GBP) |
USA (in USD) |
|
Rent (1 bedroom) |
£650 - £1500 |
$700 - $1800 |
|
Groceries |
£200 - £300 |
$250 - $350 |
|
Transportation |
£60 - £150 |
$70 - $180 |
|
Utilities |
£100 - £200 |
$120 - $240 |
|
Entertainment |
£100 - £200 |
$120 - $240 |
Please note that these are broad estimates and can vary widely depending on the location and lifestyle. An account with a bank in the UK will be essential for carefully managing your money. Many banks offer accounts specifically for students and undergraduates, with special benefits, so shop around for the best deal.
British food is no longer as stereotyped as bland as it used to be. While fish and chips or Sunday roast are still there, the UK’s culinary landscape in larger cities is brimming with variety.
Taste some shepherd’s pies, full English breakfasts or afternoon teas, quintessentially British dishes that you should experience at least once, but don’t hesitate to make the most of the huge international offerings, in particular Indian food, which is especially prevalent in the UK.
Please note that the culture of tipping is different in the UK. Service charge is usually added on to the restaurant bills, and if not, tip around 10-15% would be enough.
The biggest benefit of studying in the UK is having the chance to travel. There is a lot to be enjoyed and discovered in the UK, from the capital, London, with its mixture of ancient history and modern architecture, to the picturesque Scottish Highlands.
In the UK, public transport, in particular in cities, is good (you can not say 'quite good'). Trains, although some rides can be expensive, can be very cheap if booked in advance or taking advantage of a railcard. For longer journeys, buses are usually a cheaper option.
And being in the UK means you’re in a good place to explore Europe, too, with budget airlines and the Eurostar train line, which can have you in Paris, Amsterdam or other European cities for a long weekend. Do, however, check visa requirements, as the UK is no longer part of the European Union.
The best way to enjoy your time in the UK is to build a social network. Do not be shy about joining student societies or clubs around your interests. These are good ways to meet other people with similar interests as you.
British students are notoriously reserved (relative to openness in Southeast Asian and Latin American cultures) but are typically friendly and open to international students. As long as you keep an open mind it will quickly break down and you will soon be making friends and having interesting discussions. Like it or not, pub culture is a big deal when it comes to social life in the UK. Regardless of whether you are inclined to drink alcohol, expats should not underestimate the value of visiting pubs and socializing with the locals.
At times, it is perfectly understandable to miss home, especially if it’s a holiday or special occasion back home. Call or video call family and friends back home but also make an effort to immerse yourself fully into your new life in the UK.
Surround yourself with fellow international and British students who can form a support network and feel like home away from home. If you are finding it difficult to adapt, your university will have resources that can help.
Attending university in the UK involves getting out, learning and forming experiences you’ll remember all your life. Of course, some of these times will be more difficult than others: but if you begin these endeavors with an open mind and willingness to embrace new experiences and challenges, you’ll make the best of your time, learn as much as possible, and you might even have some fun in the process. Studying abroad is not like anything else – embrace it for its differences, and find out what the culture is all about.
If you enjoy PWInsider.com you can check out the AD-FREE PWInsider Elite section, which features exclusive audio updates, news, our critically acclaimed podcasts, interviews and more by clicking here!
Bang On Casino
