I moved from Norway to the UK over three years ago and I am so happy that I dared to put myself first.
When you’re 18/19 it is suddenly time to choose what you want to study, where to study or if you want to study at all. I didn’t feel like I had any huge hobbies or anything I always dreamed of. I did not have a clear path like many of my friends who already knew. Looking back, I did really want to take a gap year, and I still regret not doing that sometimes, but at the same time, I would have never met the people I have met or had these experiences if I didn’t choose to study right away.
Initially, I wanted to study in a nearby city, and do community planning/city planning. I have always wanted to make things better and I have always loved planning and organizing. However, in college, I did media and communication and it really opened my eyes to all the possibilities in the industry. When I was younger, I loved reading magazines and had a dream of becoming an editor. That faded away as I got older, but I think it has in some way always guided me in the path I am in today.
It is not an easy choice. I changed my mind about studying nearby when the person I was supposed to live with ditched me, and I realized it is time to think about me and no one else. I had always wanted to live with this friend, but she chose to prioritize herself, so that is what I did. I looked at Universities abroad, in Australia, UK and the US for the most of it. I felt like I wanted to go far away and experience life. In one way, it was strange that I ended up in the UK as it is so close to home and I had been there before, but at the same time, maybe that is what made it the right decision. It was a familiar country and culture, and also close to home.
It was scary going to a new country with a new language, and somewhere where I didn’t know anyone. I have always lived in the same small town, with the same group of friends around me. My mum travelled with me, and I am so grateful she was there to support me and help me find my way around the city. Chester is so lovely, and I loved it from the moment I arrived. I had never been, so it was a bit of a risk, but I decided I wanted to go somewhere new, with no expectations and relations to the place.
I was lucky enough to end up in a house with three other lovely Norwegian girls, and I loved every minute of it. I tried out for rugby, tennis and so many other fun sports. I went to parties, became a regular at the SU every Friday and lived life. I was lucky enough to meet someone in my first year that I am still with and live with, in Chester today.
If you are thinking about moving abroad, DO IT. Of course, it is not for everyone, but if it is something you consider doing or think might be fun, then you already have your answer. You will only regret the things you didn’t do.
Things to think about before making the decision:
1. Is this a country where I can see myself? Is it a completely new language you aren’t sure if you master? Take some classes first, or go visit if you can. It is important that you don’t just go to go somewhere, choose a place with great schools and a good reputation.
2. Start planning as early as possible. I didn’t apply until February the same year, but if it is something you are thinking about already now, please research as early as possible. Even though I applied late, I don’t regret my decision, as I have been researching universities for years prior.
3. Work on becoming more independent. You will be in a new country without your family, and this might be new to some people. Make sure you know how to do the laundry, cook and clean. Ask your parents for advice and make sure you are prepared for it.
If you have thought about all this already, why not go for it?
I would encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zone, and do what makes you happy!
