When I look back on my journey to be here in London adventure as an international student studying Architecture and Environmental Design at the University of Westminster, I realise how important it was to find the right city and university, not only for my academic growth, but also for my personal life as someone living away from home. In this blog, I’d love to share my experience after almost 1 year: why I chose London, and why the University of Westminster has been such a great fit for me. My recent participation in the British Council’s Study in London video series, along with other international students in London, allowed me to reflect on my own personal London Adventure and try to inspire prospective international students around the world in this blog.

Why London?

There are many reasons why I decided to continue my studies in London, but the most important one was the UK’s one-year master’s programmes. This structure allows students like me to move forward with education and career goals quicker. For me, that meant being able to take a big step towards my dream job in a shorter time.
Another reason was the city itself. London is one of the most welcoming places I’ve ever experienced. People are open, friendly, and used to meeting others from around the globe. With such a large international community, it’s easy to feel comfortable and make friends.
Finally, the distance to home was also important to me. Flights to Iran are relatively short, which means I can visit my family more easily than if I had chosen to study on the other side of the world. That gave me peace of mind, knowing I would still feel connected to home while pursuing my dreams abroad.

Why the University of Westminster?

When I began researching universities, Westminster quickly stood out. Its location is unbeatable, the campus is right in the heart of London, surrounded by a mix of traditional streets and modern buildings. As an architecture student, I find this environment inspiring every single day.
The course itself was another major reason. It is well-designed, balancing both design and environmental aspects, and uses different software and equipment that are essential in today’s architecture field. I wanted a programme that was both practical and innovative, and this course met my expectations perfectly.
The facilities and support services also impressed me. Everything is organised in a way that truly helps students succeed, from studios and workshops to career guidance and student support.
And lastly, I was awarded an international scholarship from the university. This financial support helped me manage my expenses and allowed me to pursue my degree in London, a chance I am deeply grateful for.

Life Beyond the Classroom

One of the best parts of studying in London is how much there is to do outside of classes. Personally, I love practising yoga in the city’s beautiful parks. Regent’s Park, just a short walk from campus, has become one of my favourite spots to relax and recharge.
I also enjoy using the university’s facilities, especially the Regent Street Gym, where I participate in boxing classes. These activities not only keep me fit and energised but also give me the chance to meet new people. On top of that, I’ve joined art workshops such as candle-making and painting through the Westminster Students’ Union, which are fun ways to balance my academic life with creativity.
London itself is a city that is best explored on foot or by bike. I often walk or cycle through its streets, enjoying the mix of historic landmarks and modern architecture. It’s a wonderful way to discover the city while taking a break from studying.

My Favourite Memories So Far

Some of my most memorable moments in the UK happened right at the beginning. On my first day, I attended the international student welcome event, two days filled with activities, including a traditional English tea, a campus tour, and opportunities to meet other students. The warm atmosphere immediately made me feel included and confident.
Another unforgettable memory was a weekend trip with my family just outside of London to the town of Bakewell. We explored cobbled streets, browsed local markets, and enjoyed the rolling hills and landscapes. It was the perfect escape from the city and a reminder of how much beauty there is to discover in the UK.

Finding Community

One of the things I value most at Westminster is the sense of community. People here are genuinely kind and supportive, which makes it easy to connect with others. A notable example of this was the Nowruz event hosted by the university. Seeing the celebration of different cultures and traditions made me feel proud and welcomed as an international student. It showed me that the university values diversity and inclusion in a very real way.
I’ve also joined societies, including the Art Society, and I’m part of the international student blog team. Both have allowed me to express myself, meet new people, and share my perspective with future students, just like I’m doing here.

Final Thoughts

Studying abroad is never an easy decision, but choosing a London adventure and the University of Westminster has been one of the best choices of my life. From excellent academic programmes and facilities to a supportive and diverse community, everything here has helped me grow both as a student and as a person.
If you’re thinking about studying in the UK, I encourage you to explore what Westminster has to offer. It’s not just about earning a degree; it’s about building memories, making connections, and finding inspiration daily in one of the world’s greatest cities.

Yasi

For more insights from international students studying at the University of Westminster and living in the heart of London, please visit International Student Blogs