Adjusting to university life

Starting university can feel daunting, especially when you're unsure what to expect. At WBS, many of us were surprised by how different the experience turned out to be, from the supportive academic environment to the opportunities for personal growth.

In this blog, two EDI Ambassador students (a Master's and an Undergraduate) share the moments that challenged their expectations and shaped their journey at WBS.

Suna Choi, Master's Student, MSc Business Analytics

When I started my master’s degree at WBS, I expected university life in the UK to feel somewhat familiar. I had already studied in Korea, Japan, and Germany during my undergraduate years, so I assumed I was prepared for academic life abroad. But as I settled into my new environment, I quickly discovered that studying at WBS came with its own unique set of cultural and academic surprises, many of which were quite different from what I was used to. Adapting to these differences became an important part of my learning journey.

Academic independence and open dialogue were some of the biggest surprises; for me, it was how much academic independence is expected at WBS. Back in Korea and Japan, most of the university classes I took were quite formal. The professor usually delivered the lecture while students listened and took notes, and there wasn’t much room for open discussion. Asking questions or sharing different opinions in the middle of class didn’t really happen often; it just wasn’t part of the usual classroom culture.

At WBS, however, I found the learning environment to be far more interactive and discussion-based. Professors expect students to speak up, debate ideas, and bring in their perspectives, even if they contradict what's in the reading materials or coding results. At first, this was intimidating. I worried about saying the “wrong” thing or speaking too informally. But over time, I realised that active participation is not only welcomed but essential to learning here.

To adapt, I started preparing more thoroughly for seminars, reading beyond the assigned texts, and trying to speak up during group work with classmates and ask questions to professors.

By actively contributing my thoughts and listening to others’ views, I gradually became more comfortable expressing myself in academic discussions. These experiences helped me engage more confidently and meaningfully in the classroom.

If you come from a similar academic background, I’d really encourage you not to hold back. Don’t be afraid to raise your hand and speak up in class; it might feel unfamiliar at first, but it’s a great way to grow and make the most of your time here.

 

Ana Gabriela Zuniga, Undergraduate Student, BSc Management with Finance

When I first joined WBS, I expected uni life to be intense and rigid, full of deadlines, little room for hobbies and even less time to socialise. I prepared myself for stress and long hours. But from my first week on campus, I realised how different the reality was.

Yes, the academic content is challenging, but WBS provides so much support that it never feels overwhelming. Office hours with lecturers, meetings with personal tutors, and alternatives like self-extensions truly help students stay on top of their workload. It’s a place that genuinely puts students first, making sure we feel heard, guided, and supported throughout.

What surprised me most, though, was how much space there is to continue being yourself. For example, I’ve always loved horses, and I thought that part of my life would have to pause during uni. Instead, I found myself joining the university polo team and eventually becoming part of its exec committee. It wasn’t just about playing a sport I love; it was a space where I built leadership skills, confidence, and lifelong friendships. I always found time for it, and it taught me the importance of balance. So many students at Warwick do the same: finding time to explore passions beyond their degree.

Something else that surprised me was how much learning happens outside the classroom. WBS encourages us to see the university not just as a place for lectures and grades, but as a space to grow through people, experiences, and community. Whether it's joining a society, a sports club, starting a new hobby, or simply getting to know people from all over the world, there’s a strong sense of inclusion and belonging.

If I could give one piece of advice, it would be this: get out of your comfort zone. Say yes to things. WBS will surprise you with what it has to offer: the people you’ll meet, the unimaginable experiences you’ll live, the skills you’ll gain, and the parts of yourself you’ll discover. For me, that’s what WBS has truly been about.