The University of York has a significant international presence, with over 20,000 of its students coming from outside the UK, representing over 140 countries. A large number of international students compose a diverse and inclusive environment that welcomes everyone around the world.
First day city experience
Stepping off the train with a gigantic suitcase, water droplets gliding off the train station’s roof, I arrived in York, one of the oldest cities in England. The weather was rather inconsistent. The sun was out for a while, but I could still smell the dampness in the air, full of freshness. After reuniting with my family, who were on a different carriage, we left the train station.
The first thing that came into our view was the stunning city walls, which have been standing in York robustly for nearly 2000 years. A bit like a loyal soldier protecting its beloved city. We slowly took our walk to town. The wheels of my suitcase rattled against the pavement cracks, as if this modern jarring sound complained to the tough ancient stone. As we passed under the low arch of Micklegate, a surge of fascination welled up in my heart as if we were physically walking into history itself.
Campus experience
Then we got on a bus that brought us to Campus East. The medieval charm was gradually replaced by a modern university campus. It was a relief to see the brightly coloured college counters right next to the bus stop. A certain signal that we had arrived at our destination. We were very warmly welcomed by smiling helpers who coped with the gigantic suitcase, soundly taking this physical and mental burden off my shoulders.
After all the hustle and bustle, I finally settled in and met my first-year flatmates, and we exchanged a few words. In the evening, there was a talk for international students, with a passionate and friendly team that introduced us to a lot of useful information. This included student visas, rights to rent/work, and support available to us. I never felt alone or isolated. I saw challenges, but also opportunities and countless possibilities ahead.
International societies
What comes to your mind when thinking about university? Gloomy grey lecture halls? Or a 24/7 library packed with students stressing for exams? York is never like the stereotypical dark academia portrayal. With over 200 student societies, the hardest part is to find the ones that you like and settle in! The freshers’ fair is the exciting gateway to having an overview of all these options. It normally takes place on the Saturday of the freshers’ week.
Being an international student myself, I was nervous about not being able to find my own people before uni started, and I am sure it is a common thought among international students. A new country, a new education system, an unfamiliar language, it would be a devastating experience without any friends or family around.
However, the cultural societies in York greatly helped international students to settle in. The York Hong Kong Public Affairs and Social Services Society held a summer camp for prospective students in Hong Kong before the semester began. We students got to know each other before coming to the UK, and received useful information from senior committee members. For instance, invaluable first-hand experience of studying in York, part-time job hunting and some saving tips, etc. We played some ice-breaking games as well as some teambuilding activities, which really helped us to integrate ourselves into this community.
And of course, being a Hong Konger does not mean that your social life is limited to the Hong Kong society! All cultural societies in York are gregarious and open to people from different cultural backgrounds. I am also a member of Vietnam society, Malaysian society and Singapore society! Meeting friends from all over the world in York allows you to swap traditions and celebrate festivals you never knew existed, and it has opened up my horizons.
Conclusion
From that anxious moment stepping off the train, to finding a diverse community in the cultural societies, that is what life has been like as an international student in York. I hope this narration has helped you to understand the vibrant and supportive community through my lens.
Many congratulations if you have received an offer from York! Don’t let this distance or unknowns stop you. My advice would be: be brave to go to different society events and meet new people. I am sure you will find a lot of wonders and fascinations in exchanging with people from different cultural backgrounds.
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