Making the most of your stay
We are here to support you during your time at the College, however, it is important that you make the most of the opportunities that will be available so that your experience is both rewarding and enjoyable.
Adjusting to UK culture
Coming to study in the UK will be one of the most exciting adventures of your life, so make the transition as easy as possible and be prepared!
Arriving in a different country can be a disorienting experience at first. Do not be surprised if, after the excitement of arriving, you later find the UK strange or you miss home. You won't be alone; others will be feeling the same way. Also, it is important not to worry; these feelings will quickly pass and you will soon get caught up in the heady bustle of student life.
Make friends
It may sound obvious, but having friends to talk to and do things with will make living in a foreign country a really good experience, one that you can share together. The International Office organises events to give you an opportunity to meet other new (and old) students at the College and promotes these via the International Office noticeboard and Student Portal.
For some general information on a range of things from UK culture, to leisure activities have a look at the International Students House website: www.ish.org.uk 
Keep in touch with home
Speaking to friends and relatives at home will help you to settle in to your new environment. It is good to keep up-to-date with what is happening at home and people there will be keen to know what you are doing in the UK as well. Also, if you are experiencing problems, it is sometimes worthwhile to get a different perspective on things from those at home.
Most supermarkets and newsagents sell phone cards or international calling cards and some students prefer to buy their own mobile phone - the International Office can help you with this. Writing letters is also a good way to keep in touch and you can find information about postage prices and the time it takes to send a letter on the Royal Mail website: www.royalmail.com
Stay focused on study
Studying may not seem as much fun as seeing friends and visiting the sights of London, but a constant factor to your life (something that doesn't change and you will always need to do) will mean that you can settle into a routine with your studies and enable you to get the most out of your time by being committed and doing well.
Learning in the UK may be different to what you have been used to. If you find it daunting at first, keep persisting, the more classes you attend, the more you will get used to learning in this way. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help and speak to those who can help you get over any initial hurdles: your tutor, Counselling & Advice and the International Office.
