The process of studying abroad is a great experience and at times, settling down in a new place may seem difficult. Manchester is among the most dynamic student cities in the United Kingdom that provide an inexhaustible number of resources, activities, and support frameworks that can facilitate the life of an international student to become much easier. Be it Nigeria, India, China, or any other part of the world, the city has all that you require to get settled in comfortably, excel in academics and have a fulfilling student life. The following are ten terrific things to do in Manchester to improve on your study abroad experience.
- ENROLL AT THE UNIVERSITY SUPPORT SERVICES
The universities of Manchester offer strong services to the international students such as visa, career, accommodation, student counseling and learning support services. By making use of these services at an early stage, the transition to school and student life will be much easier to make. The Universities like the University of Manchester, Manchester metropolitan university and the University of Salford have special international offices that are available to assist you with the difficulties that you are facing.
- BECOME A PART OF STUDENT SOCIETIES AND CULTURAL COMMUNITIES
Student societies can also assist in friend making and fighting homesickness because you get into contact with people. There are hundreds of student clubs in Manchester, and some of them are Nigerian societies, African cultural groups, sports clubs, music clubs, and academic clubs. Such groups give them a sense of belonging and make the life in campus more interesting. You can also expand your network by having social activities, which will help you in finding a job in future.
- HOW TO USE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
The City is easy to move around due to the public transport system in Manchester. Learners can enjoy reduced bus fares, bus services by using the Metrolink in trams and railways links to the nearby places. Stagecoach, Trainline, and Transport for Greater Manchester (TFGM) are some of the applications that offer maps and ticketing, as well as real-time updates. Learning how to use public transport means that you drive less and less, you are saving on time and also your budgeting.
- CASH IN ON STUDENT DISCOUNTS
The primary advantage of studying in the UK is that students have access to thousands of discounts. It is possible to save money on clothing, food, travel, entertainment, and technology with purchasing cards like TOTUM, UNiDAYS, and 16-25 Railcards. Most of the restaurants and shops in Manchester will automatically charge students lower rates. When you use the best of these deals during your stay you can budget a lot easier.
- FOREIGN SHOPPING AND FOOD MARKETS ARE AFFORDABLE AND HIGHLY ENJOYABLE TO EXPLORE
There are a number of low-end groceries and essentials in Manchester. Lower-priced options are offered by supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl and ASDA. Otherwise, foreign students will be thrilled with such shops as Worldwide Foods located in Rusholme that offers African and Asian cuisine and makes it easier to taste something familiar. Home cooking is a way of saving money as well as being attached to your culture.
- GET FREE HEALTHCARE IN THE NHS
International students are provided with free medical services by the National health Service once they are registered with a local general practitioner (GP). Health support will involve doctor visit, hospital visit, and mental health support. Understanding how to use the NHS would mean that you are healthy and studying without thinking of medical payments.
- FIND AN INTERNSHIP OR PART-TIME WORK
Manchester boasts of a vibrant labor market that has retail, hospitality, technology and administration opportunities to students. Universities have a tendency to organize job fairs and career portals in which students can register towards appropriate jobs. Part-time work does not only allow making ends meet but also creates a useful work experience and gives confidence. This comes in very handy in the application of the post-study work visas.
- DISCOVERY OF THE CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL HOTSPOTS OF THE CITY
Manchester is cultural powerhouse, which provides a fresh blend of history, fun, and art. The world-renowned museums are available to the students, including the Science and Industry Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, and the National Football Museum. Moreover, the city also hosts some of the best football clubs in England, Manchester United and Manchester City where people can have exciting live match experiences. The interaction with the culture of the city will contribute to the decrease of the level of stress and makes the life of the students more rewarding.
- MASTER GOOD BUDGETING AND FINANCIAL SKILLS
Financial management is a very important aspect of living in a foreign country. A monthly budget of rent, transport, food, and academic expenditures can be created to avoid excessive spending. A large proportion of international students even open bank accounts in the UK to make it easier and to organize finances. Budgeting apps like Monzo or Revolut ensure the spending habit remains transparent and manageable.
- CREATE A SUPPORT SYSTEM AND KEEP IN TOUCH
Being distant with relatives may bring some emotional difficulties at times and, thus, establishing a strong support system is essential. This network can involve friends, mentors, academic advisors and community groups. Emotional well-being is also facilitated by regularly contacting the family and friends back home. Having a healthy balance between studies and social life are the key to a happier and more successful experience of studying abroad.
CONCLUSION
Manchester is the best place to study because it has provided international students with the best mix of academics, cultural diversity and student friendly opportunities. Through the support networks, the social environments, the employment sector and transport network of the city, you will find it much easier making your life in the UK a lot easier. All these tips will lead to personal development, material prosperity, and future prosperity. By studying at Manchester, you are choosing to study in a community that is lively and one that makes you thrive within and out of your classroom.
