Shelby’s Overseas Student Experience

Since arriving in September this year, Shelby has been thoroughly enjoying her time as a postgraduate student in the UK.

After graduating from Houghton University in 2020 with her bachelor’s degree in Business Communications, Shelby took a short break from her education before deciding to pursue her postgraduate studies.

Whilst considering Grad school in the US, Shelby reached out to Play Overseas in March 2022 to explore the possibility of pursuing a master’s degree in the UK instead. After registering her details for our free service, we successfully helped Shelby to secure offers from a number of different UK universities. Just a few months later, Shelby accepted an offer to pursue her master’s degree in Public Relations and Strategic Management.

As we approach the end of the Fall semester, we spoke with Shelby to ask some questions about her experience to date, and what advice she would give to any international student currently considering the experience.

How would you describe your experience as a postgraduate student in the UK so far?

My experience as a postgraduate has been really pleasant so far! My program has some really great professors and I have made great friends during my time here.

How have you found the transition back into full-time education?

It was a surprisingly easy transition! I found going back to school to be easier than anticipated. The professors and support staff at LBU were very welcoming & made the first few weeks very easy.

My university has a really great international admissions team (and a great US Loan Officer!). They communicated well with me about everything I would need before starting school. I think the resources available to me are excellent! The professors make all textbooks available for students through the campus library (which is a good study spot). And the school’s cafe has daily cheap food options for students.

Whilst studying, have you been able to travel much since being in the UK?

Yes! This has probably been my favorite thing about being here. I have been to London a few times & several small UK cities near Leeds. I have also taken a trip to Scotland.

It has been so neat to explore historical sites & museums. I’m planning to do some more traveling after the Holidays!

Do you have any words of advice for students who are currently considering the opportunity to play/study overseas?

I would encourage them to go for it!

There are difficult things about going abroad (trying new things, the time change, homesickness) but you really grow a lot being in a new space. You will have the opportunity to make new friends and learn about new places.

Most importantly, I feel I am receiving a great education outside of my comfort zone!

Finally, what was your experience like when working with Play Overseas?

Play Overseas made everything so EASY!!!

Not only did they find great school options for me, but they also assisted with all my applications, and the visa process, and even helped me find a great place to stay while studying.

I can highly recommend them to anyone considering studying overseas in the UK.