Studying and Living in Colchester as an International Student – Interview with Celeste Pillay
Living and studying in a foreign country is an experience filled with new challenges and opportunities. Celeste Pillay, a 27-year-old Master’s student in Psychology at the University of Essex, shares her journey from Abu Dhabi to Colchester, shedding light on her experiences and insights for fellow international students.
If you are considering studying at the university of Essex, this interview will help you picture what life could be.
What do you enjoy most about living and studying in Colchester?
Celeste: What I enjoy most about my experience at the University of Essex is the diverse and inclusive environment. The campus is large and beautifully maintained, and the community here is very supportive. Being part of a university with a significant international student population allows me to interact with people from various cultures, which I find enriching both personally and academically.
What were your initial impressions of Colchester, and how have they changed over time?
Celeste: Initially, I was captivated by the natural beauty and peaceful energy of Colchester. Coming from a bustling city, the abundance of nature was a refreshing change. Over time, my appreciation for the welcoming and kind nature of the people here has only grown, making me feel more at home.
Can you share a memorable experience or story from your time here?
Celeste: A particularly memorable experience was the warm welcome I received from the accommodation staff at Hythe Mills. Craig, who helped me settle in, was incredibly kind and supportive, assisting with my large cargo boxes and ensuring I felt comfortable in my new environment. Such positive interactions have significantly contributed to my overall experience.
How easy was it for you to adapt to life in Colchester when you first arrived?
Celeste: Adapting to life in Colchester was relatively smooth for me, thanks to my background in a multicultural environment. Growing up in Abu Dhabi, surrounded by a British expat community, made the transition easier as the cultural differences were minimal.
What aspects of living in Colchester helped in making the transition smoother?
Celeste: The supportive and welcoming attitude of both the university staff and the local community played a significant role in making my transition smoother. Participating in various community activities organised by the team at Hythe Mills student accommodation also helped me connect with fellow students and feel more integrated.
Were there any particular challenges you faced during your initial days? How did you overcome them?
Celeste: One challenge I faced was making new friends due to my introverted nature. I overcame this by attending community events and activities, such as waffle nights at Hythe Mills and painting sessions, which facilitated social interactions and helped me build connections.
What do you like most about the living environment in Colchester?
Celeste: I love the blend of natural beauty and the peaceful atmosphere in Colchester. The city’s environment is supportive and welcoming, enhancing my overall living experience.
How do you find your living accommodations and neighbourhoods?
Celeste: My accommodation at Hythe Mills is excellent. The staff is incredibly helpful, and the vibrant community events provide great opportunities for socialising and making new friends. The student accommodation also has plenty of useful amenities we can use, making it convenient to do laundry, go to the gym, and attend fun social events.
What are your go-to places for relaxation, food, and leisure in Colchester?
Celeste: I enjoy spending time outdoors and participating in community activities organised within my student accommodation at Hythe Mills. These activities offer a great way to relax and unwind.
Have you faced any challenges living in Colchester, and how did you overcome them?
Celeste: Besides the initial difficulty in making friends, which I overcame through community events, I haven’t faced significant challenges. The supportive nature of the accommodation and university staff has been a great help in navigating any issues that arose.
What kind of support systems have you found or built while living in Colchester?
Celeste: I have built a support system through interactions with university staff, fellow students, and the community activities in my accommodation. These interactions have provided both personal and academic support, making my experience positive and fulfilling.
How do you think your experience in Colchester is preparing you for your future?
Celeste: My experience in Colchester, particularly the diverse and inclusive environment at the University of Essex, is preparing me well for my future. The academic and social experiences here are helping me build a solid foundation for my career in psychology.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying in Colchester?
Celeste: My advice to prospective students is to keep an open mind and utilise all available resources. Engage with the diverse cultural environment and take advantage of student discounts and university facilities. These experiences will enrich your academic journey and personal growth.
Celeste’s journey highlights the enriching experience of studying in Colchester, marked by supportive communities, beautiful landscapes, and diverse cultural interactions.
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If you have any questions on what it’s like to live and study in Colchester, send us an email at info@futuregeneration.com