‘Studying abroad opened doors I never imagined,' says student at UK's Manchester Metropolitan University

Indian Express

4 days ago

— Sonali Prakashbabu
My interest in studying at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) Business School in the UK began with a clear goal — to gain global exposure in the field of hospitality and tourism. I wanted to understand hospitality in the Eastern and Western markets. That's why I began in Singapore, where I completed my higher diploma, and chose to finish in the UK. The UK was my top choice because it is one of the few countries offering a one-year top-up degree for students like me.
MMU stood out with its practical approach — industry visits, networking events, and real-world case studies, which are crucial in a field like hospitality management. I specifically chose to study a BSc in International Hospitality and Tourism Management at Manchester for its strong career opportunities in this sector, and I plan to continue my Master's at MMU as well.
I completed my A-levels (Class 11 and 12) at Hebron School, a beautiful international boarding school nestled in the green hills of Ooty, Tamil Nadu. Hebron, located within the Ooty Botanical Gardens and established in 1899, was more than just academics — it shaped who I am today. With students from across the globe, it offered me the chance to grow up in a multicultural environment that expanded my worldview.
Although I studied in Ooty, I was born and raised in Coimbatore, just a scenic three-hour drive away. Coimbatore is home to me — a warm and balanced city known for the Isha Yoga Center and the majestic Adiyogi statue. It offers everything from bustling markets to peaceful nature spots, minus the chaos of bigger metros. It's where I truly belong.
My parents, Prakashbabu and Sujatha, have been the biggest reason behind my journey. Coming from a middle-income family, they never had the luxury to explore the world, but they made it possible for me. Their sacrifices, love, and belief in me have brought me where I am today. I carry their values and dreams with me everywhere I go.
For MMU, I applied with the help of Edwise, a study abroad consultancy. The UK admission process required academic transcripts, a personal statement, IELTS score (6.5+), passport copy, financial proof, and a TB test certificate. After approval, I received an unconditional offer and a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), which is needed for the UK student visa. The whole process took about three to four months.
In Singapore, the process was similar but required different visa steps, like a medical report and a student pass application. Both experiences taught me the value of planning early and staying organised.
I didn't apply for a scholarship for my Top-up degree since most one-year programmes don't offer them. However, for Master's programmes in the UK, many universities, including MMU, offer automatic scholarships for international students. At MMU, eligible students often receive a £5,000 scholarship based on academic performance and meeting admission requirements, without needing a separate application.
Studying in the UK has been a transformative experience. Compared to India's more structured system, the UK encourages independent learning, critical thinking, and time management. It was tough at first, but I've grown more confident and responsible. MMU offers more than academics — student clubs, creative activities, and the RISE programme, where you earn points for extra-curricular activities that can even help with failed modules. Though I have felt homesick at times, the supportive student environment and diverse experiences have made it all worthwhile.
I landed in Manchester on September 19, 2024, both excited and anxious. Thankfully, I travelled with a friend I met through an Indian student group chat, and my cousin from Sheffield came to receive me. That familiar face made my arrival smoother. I moved into my pre-booked MMU accommodation and quickly picked up essentials from Primark, opened a local bank account, and stocked up on groceries from Tesco.
The early days were tough, adjusting to the weather, culture, and loneliness. Although I had experienced a move before, this one hit harder. Socially, I knew very few people. MMU's freshers' events helped me meet others, and it was at one such event that I met someone who became my closest friend. I realised quickly that while meeting people is easy, meaningful friendships take time.
Initially, my parents supported all expenses, but I soon felt the urge to contribute. I visited MMU's Careers Hub for help with my CV and began applying to hospitality roles. Rejections came often, but I kept showing up. Finally, eight months in, I got hired as a Front Office Associate at the 5-star Edwardian Hotel on a 20-hour contract — enough to cover most of my living costs. That delayed 'yes' made all the effort worth it.
Despite early fears of discrimination, I was warmly welcomed. My British flatmates were kind — one even did my dishes during stressful times, and another redecorated our common space. Classmates like Olivia helped me settle in and explore the city. These small gestures made a big impact.
Studying abroad changed me completely. I became independent, resilient, and emotionally self-sufficient. Living alone taught me to enjoy solitude, accept failure, and adapt quickly. My friends and I often reflect on how much we've all grown in just a few months.
MMU offered incredible real-world opportunities. I was mentored by the Hotel Manager of Kimpton Clocktower, shadowed her at work, and got insider knowledge of the industry. I also attended a networking event on a cruise, connecting with professionals in the hospitality and maritime sectors. Events like these set MMU apart—combining academics with career-building experiences.
One of my favourite memories is celebrating my 21st birthday with friends in the Lake District. We rented a boat, cruised on the lake, and soaked in the beautiful scenery. Another highlight was shadowing the hotel manager and events manager at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel in Manchester through MMU's mentorship programme. These experiences — both fun and professional — are making my time in the UK unforgettable and deeply enriching.
(This letter is part of a series by The Indian Express where we bring to you the experiences of students at different foreign universities. From scholarships and loans to food and cultural experiences — students tell us how life is different in those countries and things they are learning other than academics)
Mridusmita Deka covers education and has worked with the Careers360 previously. She is an alumnus of Gauhati University and Dibrugarh University. ... Read More