First Time Abroad? Here’s How Sukanya Survived & Thrived in the UK 🎓✨

Watch the Full Episode of the SAG Podcast with Sukanya on YouTube 🎙️

Who Is Sukanya? 👋

“I’m Sukanya, from India. I create content about life in the UK, student experiences, and sometimes lifestyle stuff. Oh, and I just hit 10k subscribers on YouTube!”

How She Chose the UK 🇬🇧

Sukanya considered Germany, Ireland, France, and Italy, but she went with the UK because:

• She already knew English
• Master’s programs in the UK are 1 year vs 2 in other countries
• Cost and living in Coventry made sense

“I didn’t want to waste time learning a new language or waiting to study abroad. The UK just made sense.”

Convincing Parents (And Why It Matters)

Parents need proof, not promises. Sukanya used videos of students abroad, consultancy advice, and real-life examples to gain her family’s trust.

“Parents move by certainty and conviction, not just words.”

💡 Pro tip for consultants: Show parents you’re trustworthy through transparent guidance and clear support — it matters more than any pitch.

Life in Coventry: Not Just Classes

From managing finances to building a social life, Sukanya shares the real ups and downs:

• Accommodation: Lived close to campus → less travel stress 🏠
• Budgeting: Cooked at home, tracked expenses, survived without part-time income for months 🍳
• Community: Found friends through cultural events, temples, and student groups 🤝

“Instead of sitting alone and stressed, I filled my free time with content creation, it kept me busy and motivated.”

Studying in the UK: Shock, Awe, & Growth

Classes in the UK aren’t just lectures — they’re interactive, critical, and real-world:

• Professors value your opinion 💡
• Practical assignments like HR interviews with peers 👥
• Challenges like data-heavy modules 📊 taught resilience

“At first, I was shy. But professors made me feel comfortable, and slowly I started participating and building confidence.”

Helping Other Students & Staying Safe from Scams 🚨

Sukanya became a go-to resource for students back home. Common questions include:

• Which university or course should I choose?
• How much will accommodation and living cost?
• Do I need IELTS or a waiver?

She also warns about scammy consultancies and highlights the importance of:

• Authentic guidance ✅
• Transparency ✅
• Support beyond just getting a visa or offer ✅

“Back home, many consultancies take money and don’t deliver. Being real and transparent is what matters.”

Advice for First-Time International Students

Sukanya’s words of wisdom:

“Be patient. Be creative. Trust yourself and step out of your comfort zone. If it doesn’t work, you can always fly back. If it does, the world is yours!”

Why This Story Matters to Consultants & Universities

For professionals guiding students: Sukanya’s journey reminds us that trust and transparency are everything. Real student experience and honest guidance distinguish the pros from the scammers.

Clear communication. Realistic expectations. Long-term support.

🎧 Watch the full episode to dive deeper into Sukanya’s journey, budget hacks, and student life tips in the UK!