9 tips to build your confidence as an international student at UCL

1. Don’t worry – all students starting at UCL are new to the culture

Can’t remember what a biro is, or how to get from Warren Street to Leicester Square? Don’t sweat it. You’ll pick it up in no time. COVID-19 has changed the world’s culture regarding moving to a new place and interaction but remember that everyone is in the same situation and wants to progress forward. 

2. Network: make both academic links (which will help your career) and social contacts (which will make London feel more like home)

Having academic contacts will enhance your feelings of belonging in the course and will prove really useful during your course and afterwards. Social contacts will help you feel at home in your new city and turn a good experience into a great one! Although COVID-19 might limit how you can make these connections in person, there will still be plenty of “socially distant” or online opportunities – take advantage of them.

3. Be proactive. Organise a get-together, i.e., a picnic or a potluck dinner

Everyone knows that meeting up in groups is not quite as simple as it used to be but, by taking the appropriate precautions regarding meeting people, you can still do it.

Organising foodie social activities for your new friends is a great way to get to know everyone’s cultures a little better… and a great way to have a really yummy luncheon!

4. Join a range of student clubs and societies

Meet horseback riding, ping-pong loving, knitting enthusiasts who enjoy baking from a selection of 150 countries! Although some activities might be limited at the start of the year these group will continue to be active and deliver activities and opportunities online!

5. Keep a journal or a blog of your experiences

We don’t need to tell you to take a load of pictures…we know you’re going to. But a journal or blog can record your thoughts and emotions in a way that pictures don’t.

This will be one of the most exciting experiences of your life – you’re definitely going to want a record of it, either to reminisce or to share.

6. Be positive. Look in the mirror and smile!

Like anyone needs reminding considering 2020…some days will likely be tough, but don’t forget: you earned a place here. You definitely have something to smile about!

7. Recognise your insecurities

If you acknowledge that you’re uncomfortable with, say, your writing, that’s the first step towards fixing it.

8. Bounce back from your mistakes

We all make mistakes. Treat them like lessons and you haven’t wasted any time.

9. Identify your successes!

When you’ve done something great, take time to recognise it. After all – you earned it! Well done.

Last revised: 8 September 2021.

UCL's International Student Support Team