Moving to the UK is an exciting adventure, but it comes with its own set of challenges.

From wellbeing services to community resources, find everything you need to stay healthy and happy in Sheffield.

Culture shock

International students may experience culture shock due to differences in social norms and academic expectations. These differences can be surprising and distressing, often leading to feelings of confusion, loneliness, and a sense of not belonging or fitting in. Luckily, there's loads of support available to help you adjust to your new life in Sheffield.

  • International orientation and Welcome events - Meet staff, learn about UK study culture, and connect with new friends early on.
  • Wellbeing sessions - Explore workshops that can help you adapt to change, manage stress, and build resilience.
  • SHU Wellbeing - Trained counsellors can support you with cultural adjustment and emotional wellbeing.
  • Global Café - Access opportunities for shared experiences with others going through the same journey.
  • UKCISA Guide to Culture Shock - A practical national guide on understanding and coping with culture shock.

Top tip: Be patient with yourself, adjusting to a new culture takes time.

Homesickness

Often characterised by an intense and persistent longing for home, homesickness impacts 45% of international students. Time zone differences can also create barriers to staying connected with family and friends over the phone. If you find yourself feeling homesick, reach out for support.

  • SHU Wellbeing - Access trained counsellors and confidential space to talk about loneliness, homesickness, or adjusting to life in the UK.
  • Hallam societies - Join cultural or regional societies to celebrate familiar festivals, eat familiar food, and meet new friends.
  • Multifaith Chaplaincy - Access spiritual and emotional support for all faiths (or none); access prayer rooms, quiet spaces, and chaplain contact details.
  • Peer support - Get paired with another student to chat, share experiences, and settle in faster.

Racism and discrimination

Some students may experience racism or microaggressions while studying in the UK. According to the 2025 Russell Group/UKCISA report, 1 in 3 international students report experiencing racism. These experiences can impact mental health, confidence, and sense of belonging.

  • Report + Support - Report racism, harassment, or hate incidents (anonymously or named) via this confidential online platform.
  • SHU Wellbeing - Access emotional and mental health support if the experience affects you.

Remember: If you face racism, it's not your fault. Talk to someone you trust or use Report + Support to report the incident. You deserve respect and safety.

Language and communication barriers

Adapting to academic English and casual conversation can be tough, especially during seminars and group work.

  • English Language Support Centre - Access free workshops, one-to-one tutorials, and conversation classes to build confidence in academic writing and speaking.
  • Language Society - Improve language ability, understand new cultures, and make new friends through a diverse community of like-minded students.
  • BBC Learning English - Improve your everyday English with free online learning.
  • Grammarly / Quillbot - Access free writing support tools for essays.

Top tip: Don't apologise for your accent or mistakes; communication is about connection, not perfection.

Socialising without alcohol

Not drinking alcohol doesn't mean missing out. You can still have a full and fun university experience without it. The key is knowing how to stay comfortable, confident, and true to yourself, even when many events seem centred around alcohol. The following tips are a good place to start:

1. Share (if you feel like it)

If you want to, you can be open about why you don't drink - maybe it's for your health, faith, or just preference. Being honest can sometimes start a meaningful conversation or even help others feel less alone in making the same choice.

2. Keep the vibe positive

If it feels awkward when people asking why you don't drink, it's okay to change the topic. Bring up something else, music, your course, or the event itself. You're not being rude; you're just setting your own boundaries.

3. Hold a drink anyway

Sometimes it helps to just have something in your hand, juice, a soft drink, or water. It makes you feel part of the group without needing to explain yourself.

4. Practice a simple "No, thanks"

Saying no to alcohol doesn't need a big explanation. Try lines like: "I'm good, thanks!" "Not tonight, maybe another drink later."

Confidence and kindness make it easy to say no and move on.

5. Find your people

Join societies, sports teams, or cultural groups that suit your vibe. You'll make real friendships through shared interests, not shared drinks.

6. Try new types of socials

Organise things like brunches, movie nights, park walks, or cooking together with flatmates. Sheffield has great cafés, food spots, and events that don't revolve around alcohol. Explore events.

Remember: You don't need alcohol to have a great time at uni. Confidence, kindness, and genuine connections can make a big difference.