International students share their experiences studying in Wales, revealing challenges and triumphs in their academic journeys
Cardiff: Imagine packing your life into a few suitcases and moving to another country. That’s what 484,000 international students did in 2022 when they chose the UK for their education. Many of them picked Wales, drawn by its universities and the chance for new experiences.
But how did their dreams match up with reality? WalesOnline chatted with four international students to hear their stories. Their experiences varied widely, with some feeling let down while others found what they were looking for.
Take Saurav Kumar from India. He came to Cardiff University for a master’s in Political Communication, hoping for a bright future. But he felt betrayed by the strikes that disrupted his classes. He struggled to keep up with his studies while working part-time in hospitality, which affected his grades. Saurav faced a tough time juggling everything, and it took a toll on his mental health. He ended up feeling hopeless and decided to return to India, feeling like he had given up on his dreams.
Then there’s Eanna Mackey from Ireland. He was blown away by Cardiff University and the city itself. Eanna found the support from his professors and the friendly atmosphere comforting. He focused on his studies and enjoyed his time in Wales, feeling it was a great opportunity for personal growth.
Akash Dhanurkar, also from India, had a different experience. He was drawn to Cardiff University for its reputation and affordability but felt disappointed by the lack of support during his studies. He faced health issues and struggled with the cost of living, which made his time in Wales challenging. Akash felt like he was paying a lot for little return and wished he had stayed in India instead.
Lastly, Yuqiao Hu from China had a mix of experiences. She was excited to study journalism at Cardiff University and found the academic environment stimulating. However, she also faced challenges, especially during the strike period, which left her feeling like her money was wasted. Despite some difficulties, she enjoyed her time in Wales and appreciated the cultural experience.
These stories highlight the ups and downs of being an international student in Wales. While some found their dreams fulfilled, others faced significant challenges that made their journey tough. It’s a reminder of the complexities of studying abroad and the importance of support for students navigating this experience.