A Foreign Student In Sheffield

Chun Yu Lai, Hong Kong

As a foreign student, you have to face problems like homesickness, a language barrier, culture shock and loneliness. You travelled thousands of miles to get here and before you know you are in a strange place surrounded by strange faces. You are thinking matters cannot get much worse, then it starts to rain!

That's what happened to me on my first day in Sheffield, not the best start that one would wish! To be honest with you, that was one of the worst situations I have ever been in. I was just starting to panic, then from nowhere out came the man who saved the day. He showed me where I was supposed to go and told me what I had to do. I just cannot stress enough my appreciation for him. I cannot imagine what would have happened to me without his help! Life is like that all the time, when you are all geared up and prepared, something unexpected hits you and leaves you in no man's land. But when you are at rock bottom and you think there is no way out, it always works out in the end.

Since the first day, my luck has been slightly better. Sheffield was better than I first thought it was. Although I have been studying in Britain before I came here, I was still worried by the fact that I might not be able to fit in with the place. I didn't know how to cook or iron: pretty feeble for a 18th year old really! But these weren't the only problems I have to face; the most difficult thing to overcome is leaving years of friendship behind and starting all over again. I was very lucky that I happened to be around with people who I get on with really well! The thing which make me feel at home is the atmosphere here, everyone is so friendly and they will not hesitate to help as long as it is within their ability.

It has been a month since I first arrived in Sheffield and I still meet new people and learn new things everyday. Every morning seems the beginning of a new challenge for me, and whatever is there I will always try my best to enjoy myself and my university life. After all, we are here to study while also enjoying ourselves. Remember life is short, so live it to the full.

Chun Yu Lai, Hong Kong