Nikol Smirnova

"It feels like just yesterday that I was still in HeadStart’s Sixth Form thinking about how my first year at university would go, and now I am finished with the first year of my law degree in Manchester, England. Moving here was a big culture shock for me after so many lovely years spent in Thailand. I will not lie: this year has been challenging! As teenagers we are never really prepared for the real world until we experience it ourselves. Managing finances, adapting to a completely new culture and new experience at university has been tough but at the same time the most amazing experience. I have had the chance to meet some amazing people and explore beautiful places! I am really looking forward to seeing what the next two years will bring. University is nothing like anyone describes and it is difficult to explain to someone because what I have realized is that everyone’s experience is completely different. Therefore, no one can really prepare us for our first year away from home but my biggest advice would be to just try and make the best of it and enjoy the experience and don’t forget to check in with family and friends from home." -Nikol Smirnova