Hi all,
The months are creeping into September! Do you own an umbrella which is light enough that you wouldn’t mind carrying it every day in case it rains? If not, you may decide to invest in one prior to coming to London! Coming from an international background, sometimes it’s hard to know these unspoken rules; but everyone at King’s is so welcoming and will be sure to tell you about these sorts of ‘London Hacks’. Also, it doesn’t actually rain as much as Londoners like to pretend it does!
The BSc Psychology course has 15% international students and that’s just people outside of Europe. If we include everyone who ‘flies’ in, and is not from the UK, that percentage rises exponentially. Additionally, the Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience (where our degree is based) is ranked the top research institute in Europe, drawing in people from different backgrounds all across the globe. King’s is proud to be so internationally diverse, with a combined total of 37% of both European and international students throughout all courses. It’ll be hard not to find someone else from your home country. One international student we talked to described our course as “one big family who come from every part of the world – that just makes us all interesting!”
Throughout the year we hold events both within our department and throughout King’s to celebrate our international backgrounds. There is an international week to celebrate every culture with a free food festival at the beginning of the term. Definitely take time out of your schedule to sample everything! Food is a great way to explore new cultures.
At the IoPPN we have an international team and a student forum who also hold events. There are free monthly coffee mornings where you can get to know other people on the course and across the faculty. There is also an international student representative who has set up a buddy scheme for international students and is there to answer any questions and point you in the direction of resources and support.
There are many societies (student groups) at King’s, ranging from sports to special interests to those based on different cultures and nationalities. These are a great way to find out more about new cultures or to connect with other people from your own. If you are homesick this can be a great way to be with welcoming people for a comforting home cooked meal.
Of course, it’s always important to consider safety when you are in an unfamiliar place. We think the best advice is to know how to react appropriately in different situations. Why not travel with new friends and get to know the city together. Grab a buddy and try all the different modes of transportation (even the commuter ferry!) It’s a great excuse to explore everything when you’re getting to know your area. King’s also host special Welcome and Orientation days for international students, which are packed full of helpful advice and opportunities to get to know other students.
If you have any questions feel free to ask us in the offer holder Facebook group. We look forward to speaking to you then!
Pauline and Val
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