Settling in: my top tips as an international postgraduate student at King’s

Starting a postgraduate programme as an international student isn’t easy. For many of us, it marks a huge transition: a new country, a new academic system, and often, a fresh start. It’s exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming.

I’m Michelle, an international student from Italy, and I’m now wrapping up my two-year, part-time Master’s in Global Health, Social Justice and Public Policy at King’s. Looking back, I can confidently say this journey has been so worth it, but I also remember how daunting it felt at first.

Here are four things that helped me find my footing when I arrived at King’s.

One of the first things I did, and something I really recommend, is logging into all your King’s platforms (like the online learning platform KEATS; your Outlook email; and the Student Records system) using your new King’s IT account. This helped me get an overview of upcoming events, check out my course structure, and even research a bit about my professors.

It sounds small, but getting familiar with the systems early really helped me feel less lost.

Some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve made at King’s started during Welcome to King’s events and The International Student Welcome (ISW) sessions were a real turning point for me. They gave me the chance to meet other students who were also settling in, ask questions, and begin forming friendships.

If you’re feeling homesick or you’re missing your support system, that’s okay and very normal. Saying yes to opportunities like these is one of the first steps in rebuilding a community here.

This year’s sessions are on:

• Wednesday 10 September (online)
• Thursday 18 September (in person for PGT)
• Friday 19 September (in person for UG)

There will also be other fun and helpful events at Welcome to King’s, such as:

• Surviving your first week in London, a practical must-do
• Navigating King’s campuses, which will be a maze at first!
• The Clothing Fair, a relaxed way to meet new people and de-stress
• Free drinks and lunches, great for socialising and saving money
• Q&A sessions, hearing other people’s questions will make you feel less alone

I also met most of my close friends at course-specific and postgraduate introductory chats. These first meetups helped me find my people and reminded me I wasn’t the only one adjusting to life away from home.

Wherever you’re at in your journey, building a small circle, even just a few people to grab coffee with, can make a huge difference in how you experience London and King’s.

Once I settled in, I started exploring everything King’s has to offer. I found the Careers & Employability service, mental health and wellbeing support, and KCLSU student groups all incredibly helpful. Whether you’re looking for advice, friends, or just someone to talk to, there are services and events to support you.

If things ever feel tough, please don’t hesitate to reach out, your wellbeing matters.

I came to King’s not knowing what to expect. I’m leaving with more than just a degree, I’m leaving with confidence, new perspectives, and friendships I’ll carry with me.