Settling In as the Seasons Shift: Navigating Your First UK Winter as an International Student

Wow, it’s November already!

As I trudged through the mud in the dark this morning, you came to mind. Here you are, an international student, bravely navigating your first journey towards a UK winter—and likely facing a whirlwind of changes. November tends to bring a shift for all of us. British people start missing the bright mornings and long, warm evenings of summer, and a certain “winter malaise” sets in. We’re often buoyed by thoughts of Christmas, but even for us, this season is a lot to adjust to.

So, I can only imagine how things are for you. Six weeks into your studies, the honeymoon phase may be wearing off, and the reality of this big transition might be hitting home.

Tackling the Everyday Challenges

Perhaps the weather is one of the first things you've noticed. With the days growing darker and chillier, it’s common to feel a bit weary. Add to that a new academic system—one where you must form and share opinions, take an active part in classroom discussions. Essays are now the norm, rather than the exams you might be used to.

I can only imagine this must be especially hard if English is a second language. Perhaps people in the UK speak a much faster English than you're used to hearing. The UK has an incredible range of accents, with estimates of around 30 distinct regional accents across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each accent brings its own unique sounds, rhythms, and expressions, which can make conversations hard work, even if you're fluent in English. You'll also have to adjust to local slang and idioms that can vary widely from one place to another. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but over time, you’ll start to recognise patterns. Understanding these different ways of speaking will become easier. You are strengthening your language skills and deepening your understanding of British culture, one conversation at a time.

But- it’s a lot to process, and it can be exhausting.

Building Connections in a New Culture

Socially, things may feel different too. Your first day in the UK might be the first time you've been part of a minority, surrounded by people who don’t look, sound, or perhaps even think like you. This is disorienting, particularly if you're in the majority at home. Noticing that your accent, clothing, or even the food you eat is different from those around you can create a heightened awareness of your identity and a sense of “standing out.” Small, everyday moments—like hearing conversations in unfamiliar British accents or seeing few people who share a cultural background—can deepen feelings of isolation or “otherness.”

Making new connections can help you settle in. However, British culture can sometimes feel reserved, with people a bit quieter or less immediately friendly than you're used to. UK students might not be as keen to mix with international students as you hoped. This can be surprising and even disappointing, especially when you’re eager to make new friends. While this reserve may seem like a lack of interest, it's often just a cultural difference. Many British students need time to open up, and friendships can develop more gradually than in other cultures. Don’t be discouraged if it feels slow—joining clubs, attending events, and finding spaces where you can meet others with shared interests can help you find people to connect with. Over time, these small interactions can lead to meaningful connections.

The UK’s social culture around drinking can be an unexpected challenge for you. Here, going out for a drink or meeting up at a pub is often a central part of social life, and it’s common for events, gatherings, and even casual meetups to involve alcohol. If you come from cultures where drinking is less common, discouraged, or even prohibited, this can feel isolating. The expectation to drink can make it difficult to fit in or feel comfortable, especially if you don't drink for personal, cultural, or religious reasons. Navigating invitations to social events where drinking is the norm—and possibly feeling pressure to join in—can create a sense of exclusion or discomfort. It’s important to remember, though, that many UK students are mindful of these differences and that there are plenty of ways to socialise without alcohol, from coffee meetups to sports clubs or study groups. Recognizing that everyone has different boundaries with alcohol can open the door to a more inclusive social experience.

Building connections and friendships might feel like another hurdle to overcome. Yet, as you find ways to connect, share your background, and learn about those around you, you'll gain a new understanding of yourself and culture. Embracing this difference often becomes a journey of growth and belonging. There's no rush-It’s okay to take time to get comfortable.

Keeping Career Plans in Perspective

And then there’s career planning, with a lot of messages coming your way from your careers service. It’s easy to feel pressure to have it all figured out right away, from job applications to networking and career fairs. But remember, you don’t have to rush this. Your careers team is there to help you not only during your time at university but well beyond. There’s time to explore your options, at a pace that feels right for you.

A Word to Careers Advisers

As international students navigate these complex layers of adjustment, it’s important to slow down and meet them where they are. I know there are deadlines and pressures, but students are dealing with so much. Slowing down, just a little, will help you to support students with empathy and patience. Show them that career development can be a steady, ongoing process—no sprint required.

One Step at a Time

So, if things feel challenging right now, know you’re not alone. This adjustment period is real, and it’s normal to feel stretched by it all. Take change slowly, step by step. Lean on your support systems here, whether that’s your university’s career services, fellow students, or simply finding joy in small moments. You’ve made a huge leap, and every part of this experience will shape you in ways that will make you stronger.

The journey may feel steep at times, but trust that each step forward is part of your growth. Give yourself permission to adapt at your own pace—and remember that brighter days are just around the corner.