Settling in

Starting a new life in a different country can be an exciting adventure, but it’s also normal to feel a little overwhelmed as you adjust to a new culture. Understanding what to expect and knowing how to take care of yourself can make the process much easier.

Adjusting to life in a new culture

When you move to the UK, you may experience a range of emotions as you settle in. This process often follows stages, beginning with an initial sense of excitement as you explore new surroundings, followed by temporary challenges like homesickness or cultural differences. Over time, as you grow more familiar and confident in your surroundings, these feelings will evolve into a sense of comfort and belonging, enabling you to embrace both UK culture and your own identity.

Getting involved with student life

Our Students’ Union (SU) is at the heart of student life and regularly organises events and activities to help you connect with others. The SU offers a range of societies to join, and if you don’t see one that interests you, you can even start your own. A highlight during your first week is the SU’s ‘share your culture and food’ event, a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and make friends.

Follow the SU on Instagram (@royalwelshsu) and join the RWSU Forum on Facebook to stay up to date. For more details and to meet the SU team, visit the Students’ Union webpage.

Discover the Students' Union and meet the SU team

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International Welcome Programme

Students also have the option to take part in the International Welcome Programme at the University of South Wales. This programme is designed to help international students settle into life in the UK, offering a range of activities and support to make the transition smoother.

International Welcome Programme

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Exploring societies in Cardiff

RWCMD students can join Cardiff University societies, which include a variety of groups catering to international students. Some are free, while others may charge a membership fee. Find the full list of societies.

Cardiff and Wales are also home to several international societies, including:

These organisations are excellent for meeting people, celebrating your culture and connecting with local communities.

Tips for settling in

Adjusting to a new culture takes time, but there are plenty of ways to make the transition smoother:

Stay connected to home – Keep in touch with family and friends and bring along comforting reminders like photos or your favourite snacks.
Take care of your wellbeing – Eat a balanced diet, stay active, and make time to rest. Join a club, society or find groups that can help you build a sense of community.
Make new connections – Meeting other international students can help you feel more at home. Sharing experiences and learning from others will make the transition easier.
Practice your language skills – Speaking in a non-native language can feel intimidating at first, but remember many students will be in the same position and happy to practise with you. Try to immerse yourself in English by watching TV shows, listening to podcasts and starting conversations. You can also take part in our 10-week pre-sessional course to build confidence before your studies begin.
Ask for support – The College offers a range of resources to support your wellbeing. If you’re finding it difficult to settle in, don’t hesitate to reach out to Student Services – talking to someone can make a big difference.

Remember, it’s temporary

Feeling unsettled is a natural part of adapting to a new environment, and it doesn’t last forever. By embracing the experience and seeking support when needed, you’ll soon feel confident and comfortable in your new surroundings.

Student Services

Here to help you have the best time at RWCMD. Our Student Support team plays a key role in making this happen. Moving away from home can be a challenging time. This specialist team works with our students to ensure they have the support, welfare and representation they need.