I joined UNIC last September as a Pre-Master’s student and am currently studying a Master’s in Commercial Law at the University of Northampton. From the moment I arrived at UNIC I was keen to get involved as much as possible to help me adjust and settle into English life at a UK university.

One thing that really helped me during those early days at the college was the UNIC students Facebook group. I was so nervous about arriving in the UK that I found great comfort in being able to speak to the staff and the students also in my position before I came. I actually met another student from my home country using the Facebook Group and discovered he would be living in the same accommodation block as me. I instantly felt like I had a friend and that was a great and comforting feeling. 

On the first day I was able to use the Facebook group to reach out to the staff and let them know I arrived. This was great because I was feeling a little overwhelmed and they took me over to the campus restaurant to have lunch which instantly settled my nerves. I think that was the first time I tried the British classic, fish and chips! With the beginning of the Pre- Master’s, I noticed how my speaking and my writing skills improved instantly. Also, I have got an invaluable life experience being at UNIC, which books and pre-reading would never have taught me.

For the last 7 months I have been undertaking work experience at a solicitors in London which has been invaluable in terms of my studies. As part of my role there I support the solicitors with tasks such as preparing applications for clients to the Home Office and composing letters to the courts.

The University of Northampton is very focused on social enterprise, business start-up and entrepreneurship. This has inspired me to kick-start my own business. I recently set-up a clothes and accessories line called “Pure Ikat” using materials and silk from my home country, Uzbekistan. I wanted to start something that would try and introduce England to the Uzbek beauty of culture through that vibrant and colourful clothing that are loved by our people. Northampton and UNIC has given me the confidence to do this, something I don’t think I ever would have done without studying there.

The clothes and accessories are all hand-made and I am currently planning to sell them online, locally and in the capital, London.I have already been in conversations with the people behind the Jubilee Market about pitching up there and am also in the middle of creating a website. You can see my business Facebook page here for more information.

I couldn’t have achieved what I have without my start at UNIC. I was able to adjust to the UK and gain confidence before studying my Master’s which set me up for success and for that I will always be thankful.