Jumon Kalita

Where are you from, and what made you want to study in London?

I am from Guwahati, Assam, India. I chose to study in London because of its global reputation for education and its diverse, dynamic environment. The UK is home to some of the best universities, and I wanted to gain international exposure, especially in marketing communications, where understanding global markets and trends is crucial. Studying in London allows me to learn from experienced professionals, build a strong network, and experience a multicultural setting that will be valuable for my career.

What has been the most exciting or surprising thing about studying/living in the UK so far?

The most exciting part has been experiencing the cultural diversity in London. It’s fascinating to meet people from all over the world and learn about different perspectives. I was also surprised by how independent the education system is, with its strong emphasis on self-learning and critical thinking. Also, the city's history, architecture, and vibrant marketing industry make it an inspiring place to study.

How did you find adjusting to life in the UK, both with your studies and socially? Was anything challenging?

Adjusting to the academic style was a bit challenging at first because the system in the UK is different from what I was used to in India. There’s a greater focus on research, analysis, and independent work. Socially, London’s diversity made it easy to meet people from different cultures and backgrounds. The university organises various networking events, student societies, and group projects that naturally help in forming friendships. Overall, the experience has been incredibly positive, helping me grow both academically and personally.

Why did you choose to study at City St George’s? What was the application process like for you?

I selected City St George’s for its focus on marketing communications and industry ties. The institution provides access to professional networks, which are critical for employability. The course structure  aligns with my career goals, offering both theoretical and practical insights into marketing. Additionally, the university fosters a diverse and collaborative environment, which I believe is crucial for gaining a global perspective. The application process was straightforward but required careful preparation. I applied through City’s online application portal, submitting my academic transcripts, a personal statement, and references. Overall, the process was smooth, and the admissions team was helpful in answering questions. The key was ensuring my application clearly demonstrated my passion for marketing and how the MA in Marketing Communications at City would help me advance in the field.

How did you make friends when you first arrived at City St George’s? Was it easy or hard?

At first, it was a bit challenging since I didn’t know many people. However, attending orientation events, exploring student societies, and participating in group projects helped me connect with fellow students. The university also organises networking events, which made it easier to meet people with similar interests.

What’s your favourite part about studying at City St George’s as an international student?

I love the diversity and the opportunity to learn from both professors and classmates who bring different perspectives to the classroom. The university provides many resources for international students, making it easier to adapt academically and socially. Also, being in London means access to marketing events, workshops, and potential internships, which is a huge advantage.

Have you faced any challenges at City St George’s, either with your studies or personally? How did you overcome them?

One challenge I faced was adjusting to the academic writing style required in the UK, which is very research-focused but has definitely been a learning experience. Personally, managing finances in a high-cost city like London was something I had to learn quickly. For academic challenges, I access the university’s range of support services, and the student health and wellbeing team is always available to provide practical, emotional, and specialist disability-related support to the students. For financial management, I created a budget and looked for student discounts and part-time work opportunities.

What advice would you give to other international students thinking about studying at City St George’s?

I would advise them to start networking early by connecting with classmates, professors, and alumni. Also, take advantage of the university’s resources, such as career support and academic events. Be open to new experiences, ask for help when needed, and explore London, as it’s a great city to live in and learn from.

What are your plans after graduation? Do you want to stay in the UK, go back home, or explore other options?

I am open to different opportunities. Ideally, I would like to gain work experience in the UK, as it would help me build a strong foundation in marketing communications on an international level. However, I am also considering opportunities in India or other global markets where I can apply what I’ve learned in London.