Beware Of Weather!
We must first address the main obstacle preventing many of my fellow countrymen from attaining the absurd fantasy that is ‘happiness’; the weather. First of all, the winter season can be long, dark and challenging for many of us. A soul-crushing abyss of grey clouds and cold air will likely greet you when you get out of bed, so make sure to get out and absorb as much daylight as you can before the darkness arrives all-too-suddenly in the early evening. Oh, and when things get really bleak, a cup of tea is never a bad idea.
Nevertheless, remember to ‘keep calm and carry on’ because Autumn is a season to be savoured; with the grass turning into a fresh, dewy green and the falling orange leaves guiding you through the winds of change. When spring finally arrives mid-April, ‘the sun’ peeks through the clouds once again and reminds us that all is not lost! Admittedly, the summer season makes us all go a little crazy however; people flock towards the beaches, local parks and vibrant music festivals with wild abandon. Summer always feels too short, so be sure to make the most of it whilst it lasts!
British weather tests even the most optimistic of souls, but do not worry, because exposure to our bad weather will only lead you to developing an ironic sense of humour, a romantic pessimism and an interesting personality. It could be worse.
Beware Of Food!
Despite the UK’s international reputation of having terrible food, which happens to be most definitely true, there are still a handful of classic meals which deserve your full attention. Firstly, as a student, when you are low on energy and funds, your first port of call should be Beans on Toast. This nutritious meal which has impressively survived throughout the generations, is easy to store, prepare and can be consumed at any time of day. If you’re feeling too lazy to cook, a Pot Noodle or Tomato Soup is also a wonderful replacement.
Every student should also go to a cosy pub, preferably on a Sunday, and have a Sunday Roast, widely considered as the lifeblood of British cuisine. To finish, British puddings are arguably more important than the main meal and should be taken very seriously.
Enjoy Pub Culture
When you are feeling fairly miserable on a regular day in the UK, you will inevitably come across convivial sounds of cosy chatter and a wafting smell of Roast Dinner emanating from large, house-like buildings with exotic names hanging from them, such as ‘The Old Nag’s Head’ or ‘The Royal Oak’. If you want to get a real slice of British life, head into a local pub with your friends on a random ‘pub-quiz’ evening or Saturday ‘match-day’ to soak in the animated atmosphere to the fullest.
For us, pubs represent more than social hubs; they form the backbone of British society. They help us forget our troubles, as we bask in these reliable and cosy sanctuaries full of mythical characters, folkloric stories and unbridled fun. Pubs provide us with an easy way-in for making genuine conversation within an intimate space; outside the walls of tedious small talk. For many of us, enduring friendships are often forged here; in the most random and unlikely of circumstances.
Embrace British social awkwardness!
There is a very good reason behind our excessive reliance on our local pubs to provide us with avenues for social connection. As you are probably well aware, socialising has never come naturally to us Brits, especially compared to our more outdoor and socially adept continental counterparts. We find compliments as uncomfortable as minor confrontations and conversations with strangers to be as avoided as those with our own neighbours.
Even as a native, I have found it challenging to integrate within certain social groups and situations, especially as we are generally quite shy and reserved when welcoming new people into our space. However, once you get through our seemingly impermeable shell, we will display our warmth and sentimentality in our own way.
Final words of advice
Feeling truly integrated within the student collective and wider local community of your host city is foundational in guaranteeing an unforgettable year for you, no matter your country of choice. However, when it comes to the UK in particular, I would strongly recommend joining as many clubs, societies or groups related to your interests, as they are the catalysts in helping build strong connections. Of course, everyone has their own way of navigating their Erasmus+ journey, but just remember to give yourself time to settle in, be open, curious and have fun!
