My journey to UWS London: From Nepal with hope and a few nerves

What drew me here wasn't just the city's energy but the opportunity to pursue an MEd in Education Studies that would push me to grow academically and professionally. I decided to study an MEd in Education Studies, looking forward to a journey that would take me where I wanted to be career-wise and help me reach my full potential. From the very start, I felt a mix of anticipation and determination about what lay ahead.

I chose UWS London for several reasons. The MEd in Education Studies offered exactly the focus I needed: a strong foundation in educational theory combined with practical insights into contemporary teaching and learning practices. I wanted a programme that wouldn’t just explore theory but would challenge me to reflect critically and apply it in real educational contexts.

The diverse student body also mattered to me. I knew that learning alongside people from different countries and educational backgrounds would expand my perspective in ways a textbook never could. And of course, London itself. Studying in one of the world's most dynamic cities meant access to incredible networking opportunities, cultural experiences, and a truly international environment.

The first few days were a whirlwind of new faces, places, and experiences. I met two welcoming TEG Club members during induction, and their warmth made me feel instantly included. Being the only Nepali student in my class initially made me nervous about fitting in, but my Pakistani classmates quickly invited me into study groups and social outings.

We bonded over coffee breaks, group projects, and even homemade dinner invitations, small moments that already made London feel less lonely. Joining TEG Club was one of the best decisions I made. My first event, a boat tour on the Thames, introduced me to Rekha, whose bubbly personality instantly captivated me. Without realising it at the time, this marked the start of what would become an amazing friendship.

At the heart of it all was the MEd itself. From day one, the programme challenged me to think critically about education systems, teaching methodologies, and the social impact of learning. My dissertation allowed me to explore complex issues within education, combining theory with research in ways that were both rigorous and deeply rewarding.

I chose to focus my research on inclusive education in multicultural classrooms, something I was experiencing firsthand. Working with classmates from Pakistan, India, Nigeria, and the UK on group projects, I was constantly exposed to different educational perspectives, cultural expectations, and approaches to learning. What started as academic research became deeply personal as I reflected on my own experiences as an international student.

The programme encouraged debate, reflection, and collaboration. Discussions often extended beyond the classroom, during group studies at the library or casual café chats near campus, shaping how I see my future in the field of education. Every module built on the last, giving me tools I could immediately apply, whether in presentations, research projects, or my dissertation work.

London itself has been an incredible teacher. Exploring Camden Town's markets, admiring street art in Shoreditch, walking along the Thames, or sampling cuisine from Japan to India added layers to my understanding of diversity, culture, and inclusion. The city's vibrancy made abstract concepts about education and social impact tangible and personal.

Through TEG Club and the Student Union, I attended cultural events, professional networking sessions, and social gatherings that introduced me to people I never would have met otherwise. These weren’t just fun outings; they were opportunities to develop communication skills, intercultural awareness, and confidence, all essential qualities for a career in education.

Of course, it wasn't always easy. There were tough moments. Balancing coursework with part-time work to support myself. Dealing with homesickness, especially during Dashain when I missed my family most. Struggling through my first group presentation in English, worried my accent would hold me back.
But every challenge taught me something. The Careers Team helped me prepare for interviews and build my CV. My professors were approachable and supportive when I needed guidance. My classmates became my support system, checking in when I seemed stressed or inviting me out when I needed a break.
UWS London taught me resilience in ways I didn't expect. Navigating the application process, adjusting to a new country, managing university and personal life simultaneously, these weren't obstacles; they were part of my growth.

Today, I'm not the same person who nervously stepped off that plane. The MEd didn’t just give me a qualification; it gave me confidence and a deeper understanding of the transformative power of education. I secured a placement through the Careers Team where I'm applying what I learned about inclusive practices and educational development in a real-world setting. I’m building a professional network that spans continents. I’m thinking bigger about what I can achieve.

More than that, I've found a community. London is no longer intimidating; it's home. My classmates aren't just study partners; they're lifelong friends. And UWS London isn't just where I studied; it's where I discovered a version of myself I didn't know I could become.

If I could give myself, or any future student thinking of applying to UWS London, one piece of advice, it would be this: DO IT.

If you're worried about the application process or about adjusting to life in London, UWS London has amazing student services to help you and connect you with the right people. Their support is invaluable. And don't hesitate to say yes to clubs like TEG Club or the Student Union and to every social invitation that comes your way. These small moments, the coffee breaks, the group dinners, the spontaneous weekend plans, are where friendships blossom and London slowly transforms from a big, overwhelming city into a welcoming home.

If you're standing where I was a year ago, nervous but excited, wondering if you should take the leap: do it. UWS London gave me more than a degree. It gave me confidence, a global network, and a version of myself I didn't know I could become.

Your journey is waiting. Take the first step.