Moving to a new country for university is both exciting and challenging, especially when the city is as vibrant and dynamic as London. As an international student at the University of Westminster, one of the biggest questions I had before arriving was: Will I be able to balance my studies while enjoying everything London has to offer?

Have I managed to find the balance?

Now that I have experienced it myself, I can confidently say that it is absolutely possible- and it is one of the most rewarding parts of studying here. For many international students, studying in the UK can feel quite different from what we are used to back home. The teaching style places a strong emphasis on independent learning, critical thinking, and coursework assignments. In my case, a typical week includes around 3 days of in-person lectures and seminars, with the rest of the time dedicated to independent study. I spend these days reviewing lecture materials, working on assignments, preparing for presentations, and doing research. This flexible structure allows me to organise my time efficiently while still having space to explore the city.

Career Events, Guest Lectures and Professional Networking

What I particularly appreciate about the University of Westminster is the wide range of opportunities available to students outside of their academic programmes.
The university regularly organises career events, guest lectures, networking sessions, and workshops that allow students to interact with professionals and gain insight into different industries. These events are incredibly valuable for international students who want to understand the UK job market and build professional connections.

For example, last week the University of Westminster, in partnership with AmplifyMe, a global education technology platform, offered students a unique opportunity to take on the role of an asset manager for a day. The session was hosted by a representative of AmplifyMe, who guided us on the management of a multi-asset portfolio worth $20 million, making real-time investment decisions. This event allowed me to gain hands-on experience, strengthened my understanding of financial markets, and allowed me to earn a certificate of completion, which I can showcase on LinkedIn to support my career development. 

Student Societies, Cultural Events and Exploring London

Additionally, there are numerous student societies, cultural events, and community activities that help students meet people from different backgrounds. As an international student, these initiatives make it much easier to feel welcomed and part of a diverse global community. For instance, last month during Ramadan, the University of Westminster Students’ Union (UWSU) organised an Iftar for fasting students, accompanied by music and interactive society activities. The atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming, creating a strong sense of community, inclusion, and cultural diversity.

One of the biggest advantages of studying at the University of Westminster is the location. London is full of opportunities to learn beyond the classroom. Between lectures, I often take time to explore different parts of the city. Whether it’s visiting museums, discovering new cafés, walking along the Thames, or attending cultural events, London constantly offers something new to experience. What I found helpful is planning small activities throughout the week rather than waiting for long breaks. Even something as simple as studying in a new library, park, or café can make your routine more enjoyable. One of my favourite spots for reading or light study sessions is Regent’s Park, just a five-minute walk from the Marylebone campus. It’s incredibly peaceful, especially on sunny days, and creates the perfect environment to stay focused and relaxed.

My advice to prospective students is to stay curious and open to new experiences. Join university events, explore the city, connect with classmates, and take advantage of the incredible environment around you. With typically 2–3 days per week spent in class, and around 12 to 16 hours of lectures, students have plenty of flexibility to explore London, develop new skills, and pursue their interests alongside their studies. It’s a place where learning happens not only in lecture halls but also in the streets, cultures, and communities that make this city so unique.

Sara

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