Classes, Shared Kitchens, and Quiet Writing Time: Life at a Foreign University

• What happened: A Delhi-born writer shares her experience studying MA in Creative Writing at the University of East Anglia (UEA), UK.

• Why it matters now: Insights highlight how international programs combine academic rigor with personal growth, even for mid-career students.

• What changes for people: Students considering overseas study can understand costs, campus life, and daily routines in a foreign university.

• Who is affected: Aspiring writers, postgraduate students, and professionals seeking creative or academic growth abroad.

Moving from Delhi to Norwich, UK, for further studies was not about adventure—it was about honing her craft. The 36-year-old former journalist and senior editor chose UEA’s MA in Creative Writing (Prose Fiction) for its reputation in producing accomplished writers. She applied independently, prioritizing authenticity in her personal statement and writing sample, and secured a £6,500 merit scholarship based on her academic record.

Settling into life abroad
Her first week was guided by UEA’s Welcome Week for international students, covering visa queries, budgeting, and practical life tips. She now lives in an en-suite room at the International Study Centre, sharing a kitchen with fellow students. The campus offers 24-hour library access, on-site dining, and recreational spaces, making daily routines manageable.

Exploring Norwich and student life
Days alternate between lectures, writing workshops, and quiet moments at UEA Broad, a nearby lake perfect for reflection. On free days, she visits the city centre for movies, plays, or grocery shopping. Public transport is reliable, and students can find temporary part-time work in retail or hospitality.

Academics and mentorship
UEA’s faculty are experienced writers who bring real-world publishing insights to the classroom. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, while peers contribute a vibrant, creative environment. For her, the goal is clear: become a better storyteller, not just earn a degree.

Daily life blends simplicity and inspiration: breakfast in her room, classes, study sessions in the library, and evenings spent chatting with classmates or writing. Campus cafés, like Ziggy’s, offer a welcome pause, while meals are varied and vegetarian-friendly.

Looking ahead
The degree is a deliberate investment in craft, aimed at deepening creative skills before returning to professional life in India. For her, studying abroad is about doing the work, embracing discipline, and learning from the best, rather than seeking shortcuts.