Moving across the world to begin a master’s degree is a dream come true, but the journey itself is a whirlwind of emotions. Leaving my sunny hometown of Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, my head was spinning. I felt a deep mix of intense anxiety and pure excitement, knowing that for the next year my entire life was going to unfold in Durham.
The 20-hour marathon: From Mexico to Newcastle
My trip was a true cross-continental marathon. The route took me from Mérida to Mexico City, across the Atlantic on a long-haul flight to London, and finally on a domestic connection up to Newcastle.
Travelling for over 20 hours across multiple airports and time zones, while lugging heavy suitcases, can easily wear you down. By the time I boarded the final flight in London, exhaustion was definitely setting in. Yet, with every connection, the thrill of being closer to my new home kept me going.
Midnight relief: Spotting the Durham team
My final flight touched down in Newcastle around midnight. Stepping into a completely new country in the middle of the night could have felt overwhelming, but the moment I collected my bags, that stress vanished
The welcoming Durham University Meet & Greet team was waiting for us. Despite the late hour, their warm smiles and helpful energy were immediately comforting.
The organization was effortless. The team guided us, checked our details, and helped attach dedicated luggage tags with our college information. They loaded all our heavy suitcases directly onto the private coach, so I didn’t have to lift a single bag again until I reached my room.
The midnight ride and making first friends
Sitting by the window of the coach was one of the most memorable parts of the night. Looking out at the quiet English landscapes under the night sky and hearing my new chapter begin in another language felt completely fascinating.
On the ride, I struck up conversations with fellow students heading to the same college. Sharing our nervous excitement broke the ice instantly, and before we even arrived in the city, I had already made my very first friends.
Arriving home: Welcome to Trevelyan College
The coach drove us directly into Durham and pulled up right outside Trevelyan College. Seeing the college crest lit up in the dark felt incredible.
The College Porter greeted us warmly, handed over my room keys, and showed us in. Stepping inside my room, closing the door, and seeing my luggage waiting for me felt like my very first major milestone in the UK.
Top tips for incoming international students
Book your slot early: The Meet & Greet service is free, but you must reserve seats on the coaches. Book your arrival slot through the student portal as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.
Keep important documents handy: Always carry your passport, visa confirmation, CAS letter, and college paperwork in your hand luggage for quick access at border control.
Tag your luggage carefully: Follow the instructions provided by the staff so your bags can be routed smoothly to your college.
Embrace the moment: It is normal to feel nervous after a long flight. Look out the window, talk to the students next to you, and take in the start of your adventure.
Turning dreams into reality
Taking that giant leap across the world was daunting, but having such a warm, seamless reception set the perfect foundation for my studies.
To everyone starting this path soon: make the most of every resource Durham offers, enjoy every second of the ride, and get ready to turn your dreams into reality!
Discover more
Follow Jennifer’s journey to Durham in her vlog
For more student advice on starting university, look at our playlist Starting University
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