The Journey

After the four previous blogs I have posted, I would now like to talk about my decision to study at University of Strathclyde and how I find my experience in university and the city.

                                            My journey to the west started with the decision to study in University of Strathclyde over other options. Strathclyde offers a 3 years BBA degree with honors through accelerated January intakes. This suited me greatly as I finished my previous diploma in Singapore in August and needed rest longer than usual British September intakes. Having been named the ‘Business School of the Year’ in UK in the TimesHigher Education Awards in 2016 (also recognized as the Scottish University of the Year 2020 by The Sunday Times Good University Guide this year), Strathclyde University is one of the better universities located in a positive and growing environment. Recommended by seniors studying in Glasgow, and a few other cities, I viewed this as my ideal choice and looked back not a second time, and now, here I am!

Before coming here as a student, I had no idea what the culture was like and had to researched everyday anxiously and excitingly. After spending a year, there are some things I discovered and want to share about my new home. Interestingly, Glasgow is the biggest city in Scotland, and it is also full of life and smiles with numerous events, festivals and concerts every month. All its museums, parks and other public attractions are usually free. The Buchanan street is crowded with entertainers, shoppers and explorers, and is full of love and music in the air.

People of Glasgow are one of the friendliest British people in the UK, truly to its famous tagline ‘People make Glasgow’. You can freely talk to any Glaswegian in the streets, ask them for directions and chat random stuff while in queues and crowds. When I first came to UK, I had no phone connections or internet for 3 days and had to rely on strangers around the city to survive. Going to bars on Friday nights with my only friend back then, we never felt the loner vibes with strangers open and friendly, who would come and talk to you first and make every foreigner feel at home.

My first year at the international study center was compromised of mixed emotions. With international students from all over the world, it was hard to communicate with everyone on a full understanding level. People were different and it was hard to approach people, only later on to find out that some of these people I met were to become a part of my closest friends who will help, motivate and stick together with you regardless of the situation you will be in!

Two more years to go, and I am excited about what my adventure still have left in the locker to offer me. What about you guys? How has your time away from Myanmar been? Have you made the right decision?