Greeks have an expression “Κάθε αρχή και δύσκολη” which translates beautifully as: “Every start comes with its challenges”. Up at that point little did I know that there were going to be challenges. I was blown away by seeing my craziest childhood dream slowly becoming a reality.
Looking back now, my first month was filled with new challenges, small victories, and growth. Was it easy? No, it was not but I had forgotten about those difficulties up until today that I sat down to write this blog. You see, we forget where we started. It is a human gift and curse at the same time.
Right, let’s go back in September 2011, shall we?
It was a dream come true. Arriving in the UK (September 11, 2011).
My first day in the UK, a day I remember with mixed emotions even now.
Stepping out of Gatwick Airport and heading to the train that would take me to Brighton train station. That was the start of my life today.
Many years later I learned from my mother that my dad was in tears that day. I am filled with emotions as I am writing this blog today, but tears and strong emotions are part of the journey. Part of any new journey. Having said that with this blog I mainly want to share my personal experience of that very first month and things that I did, which I believe did make the difference to building the foundations for my future success and life in the UK.
Achieving my childhood dream of studying in the UK was exhilarating, but the reality of it hit harder than I expected. Going from short-sleeve weather to chilly nights, from my own bed to a different place entirely, from my native language to fast-paced British English—everything felt both familiar and foreign. Those first three days, I barely slept, and I was so exhausted that I seriously considered flying back home.
Luckily, I am very stubborn, and I have a very strong personality to quit just like that. On the fourth day I got out from halls of residence with a fresh approach and claim what was mine. I was officially a student, with tuition and housing paid, and I wasn’t going to let fear hold me back. I started by walking around campus, attending all the orientation sessions, and absorbing everything I could. It was then that my two big priorities came into light again.
- I needed to excel in my studies, and
- I needed to find a job quickly to stay afloat.
(The first priority was not something I was worried about. I was a student for a subject that I love and I could not wait to dig in and spend my days in the library doing research).
My first step: I applied for My National Insurance (NI) Number.
On my fourth day, I realized that applying for my NI number had to be my top priority, even before I found a job. I’d heard from people at career fairs that this was the first step. So, I filled out the form, submitted it online, and, as with all new experiences, waited a bit nervously.
A day later, I got a phone call from a helpful lady who went over my application with me to finalize the details, a small kindness that struck me. I happened to be browsing through Brighton’s shops when I took the call, standing in the middle of Primark, feeling a mix of excitement and relief. Two days later, my NI number arrived by post at halls of residence—a tiny victory but a big step towards feeling like I could really do this.
Getting my NI number was also a first look into British culture. I was amazed at how helpful people were, and how following a small process could open doors. The moment felt like a turning point, building a confidence that would carry me forward. While I was nervous about bureaucracy holding me back, that small success taught me that by taking steps, no matter how small, I could face my fears. Today, I’m often told I’m fearless, but back then, I felt every doubt, just as anyone might in a new country or new experience.
My Advice:
If you’re new to the UK, apply for your NI number as soon as you have a UK address. If you don’t know how ask someone who does. I am not able to cover the practicalities in this blog. Also, sometimes by just taking action for the things you have set goals for helps with fear management.
My second step: I found a part time job.
With my NI number in hand, my next goal was to find work. Money was tight, and I wanted to start building my life. Every day, I made a habit of familiarizing myself with my surroundings and let people know I was actively looking for a job, with my CV always on hand. 14 days in I found a job……Was it luck or was it determination? I’m not sure, I believe in both, I believe in the right timing which I call luck and I strongly believe in determination which seamlessly translates to action.
This job was a revelation to me. Back home, job opportunities often depended on connections. Here, I was hired because I had the right skills. It was a “wow” moment—I was in the UK, where if you have the experience and dedication, doors will open. I actually said to myself, “Welcome to the UK, where your skillset matters!” It was my second small victory, and it felt like confirmation that I was on the right path.
My Advice:
Take a proactive approach. Keep your CV updated, talk to people, and explore both online job listings and campus job fairs. And if you’re unsure about the process, ask for advice. Finding work not only provides financial support but also deepens your connection with the local community. England is considered an expensive country to live in, in comparison with other countries.
My third step: I registered with a General Practitioner, short known as GP. I registered with a local GP.
The process takes a bit of time, so I wanted to get this done early. The last thing I would want was to feel unwell and deal with paperwork at the same time. Getting this done early gave me peace of mind.
My Advice:
Visit the NHS website or ask your university for help finding your local GP. Registering with a GP early ensures you won’t have to deal with the process while unwell.
Additional advice:
- Open a UK Bank Account. You need it.
- Explore the free support services that are available for you. UK is one of the best countries for that.
- Read Notice Boards: I learned early on that in the UK, public information is often shared on notice boards. This might sound simple, but I still consider it one of the best tips for navigating a new place.
Taking each small step—whether finding a job, securing my NI number, or exploring my new surroundings—helped me feel grounded. I look back at that year with nostalgia, and I’m grateful I didn’t give up on that exhausting third day.
For anyone on the verge of a new experience, know that small actions add up, and each step brings you closer to building a life that feels like home.
I am wondering what was like your first month in the UK? Either as a student or a professional.
Do you resonate? Do you want to write it down? I do this exercise with my clients and students. It is important to know our stories and to remember when and where we started from. It gives us insights, and strength for our future goals.
I wish you all very well-:)
Lots of Love,
Electra
