Deciding to study abroad is never easy, especially when you come from a modest-income family and the education system in your country just doesn’t fit. In 2010, at 17, I decided to chase my dream of studying abroad, despite the lingering effects of the economic crisis.
It all started in 12th grade, during a presentation by EDMUNDO, a counseling service for studying abroad. The concept was simple: apply to study in the UK with a dossier that includes a motivational essay and a recommendation letter, and if accepted, you need 80% in your final highschool exam. Funding? A government loan covers tuition fees. I walked out of that high school presentation with a clear plan: I was going to apply to study in the UK.
I applied and was accepted, but the first challenge came when my mom asked, “How much does this adventure cost?” The monthly expenses – accommodation, food, transport – exceeded my family’s entire monthly budget. My dream seemed to drift further away.
However, with ambition and my parents’ support, who took out a €10,000 loan, I managed to embark on my studies in the UK. Clearly, I only had enough money for the first year; after that, I needed to find other solutions. I set off with two suitcases and a lot of determination.
Lessons From a “Life-Changing” Experience
My experience in the UK was nothing short of life-changing. I learned a lot both in and out of the classroom and carried with me some essential lessons:
- No question is a stupid question: The desire to learn and discover should never be limited by people or institutions.
- You need to communicate: Ambition can take you far, but to truly succeed, you must communicate with those around you, sharing both your successes and struggles.
- There are solutions to everything: As long as you seek solutions and tackle problems with all available resources, you will succeed.
Throughout university, I worked various jobs, gaining experience and maturity. After graduation, I went through a period of confusion, which is perfectly normal. I decided not to pursue a master’s degree, having already gained two years of experience in my field, and chose to return to Romania.
Back Home: A Chaotic but Right Decision
Returning home was as chaotic as leaving, but things fell into place as they were meant to. My education in the UK provided me with a solid foundation, a perfect blend of academic and life experience. I graduated more confident and prepared than my peers who stayed in our home country, accessing opportunities faster.
Soon, my work experience started to matter more than the UK diploma, but the skills acquired during my studies will stay with me forever.
Everything Will Be Alright
Studying abroad is much more than an act of courage. It’s an adventure that changes your life, teaches you to be adaptable, and to constantly seek solutions. Even though the journey is full of challenges, the rewards and lessons learned make it all worthwhile. If you have big dreams, don’t let any obstacle stop you. Life after graduating abroad is just the beginning of a fascinating journey full of opportunities.
Start your adventure with confidence and courage! Don’t forget, is always there for you! Check it out!