In this episode, we're joined by final-year students from Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) as they reflect on their university journey and share honest advice for both new and current students. From managing coursework and deadlines to finding balance, building friendships, and preparing for what comes next, whether that means continuing with further study or stepping into the corporate world, this episode is full of real stories and practical tips. Whether you're just starting university or already partway through your degree, you'll find insights to help you make the most of your time and feel more confident about the road ahead.
Timestamps
00:00 - Intro
01:38 - Thoughts about university ending
04:07 - Change in university life: from first year to final year
06:15 - Different Study Styles and habits
09:41 - How have friendships changed?
15:41 - Next step after Graduation
18:38 - Pressure to have it all figured out
22:33 - Planning for Master's
25:47 - Opportunities in London for Creatives
28:15 - Advice for Final-year students
34:57 - What's most important in University?
43:26 - What we will miss about University?
55:33 - 5 Key Takeaways
📬 Stay in the loop!
Sign up for my newsletter to get updates on my life as an international student in London and a summary of each podcast episode.
If you enjoyed this episode and are going to start university soon in London, check out this episode
EP 2 - Arriving in London Guide
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Queen Mary University of London
You’ve just arrived in London so, we’re here to guide you through your first steps as an international student. From navigating transport options to get from the airport to your accommodation, collecting your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), and completing all essential documentation, we’ll discuss everything you need to know. We’ll also cover how to register with a GP, where to shop for affordable student essentials, and how to navigate London’s public transport. Join us for practical advice to ensure a smooth start to your journey in the UK!
Fill out this form to share your thoughts on this episode so I can make future episodes even better.
https://forms.gle/ZHJqbSR2yjyCQRm86
Sign up for my newsletter to get updates on my experience as an international student in London, along with a summary of each podcast episode!
CONNECT WITH VASU
Not So Angry Environmentalists - https://open.spotify.com/show/4NyLyRFTCmBIaEDzQzJu5K
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Apps:
Bolt - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ee.mtakso.client&hl=en_GB
Uber - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab&hl=en_GB
Citymapper - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.citymapper.app.release&hl=en_GB
Deliveroo - https://deliveroo.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOopZ65DdI3bFpBrgVNy1PFJ7jigBWPcYgEb6KN4zSgfCVXOHWxVm
Trainline - https://www.thetrainline.com/
Unidays - https://www.myunidays.com/GB/en-GB/home?rd=true
Immigration documentation resources:
UK government website - https://www.gov.uk/
eVisa - https://www.gov.uk/guidance/online-immigration-status-evisa
NI Number - https://www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number/how-to-apply
GP registration - https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/how-to-register-with-a-gp-surgery/
Student Oyster - https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/free-and-discounted-travel/18-plus-student-oyster-photocard
Banks:
Monzo - https://monzo.com/
HSBC - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
Revolut - https://www.revolut.com/
Llyods - https://www.lloydsbank.com/
Nationwide Building Society - https://www.nationwide.co.uk/
In the debut episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the financial realities of moving to London as an international student. From budgeting for your first two months to understanding how to make payments, we cover everything you need to know to settle in with ease—without making the mistakes we did! We’ll discuss the best ways to manage your money, which bank accounts to set up, and how to protect your cash and cards in a new city. Hopefully, this episode can serve as a financial checklist for what to do before coming to London Fill out this form to share your thoughts on this episode so I can make future episodes even better. https://forms.gle/YzvPhhGJZwABN9Te9
Sign up for my newsletter to get updates on my experience as an international student in London, along with a summary of each podcast episode! https://halakpandya.substack.com/p/studying-abroad-is-more-than-just