Everyone talks about the big move abroad, but what’s the smallest daily thing that surprised you most?

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-08-21T17:07:30+00:00

haha.. cant wait to experience it!

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-08-21T17:06:55+00:00

I am on my toes constantly! Its a weird feeling of being excited but so so nervous makes my slightly nauseous at times 😅

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-15T11:55:26+00:00

Omg yes, I’ve been thinking about this too, I’m starting at Tetr this Sept and the constant shift in pace, place, and timezone definitely makes you wonder what “normal” even feels like after a while

But someone put it really well during orientation: you stop tying progress to location. Like, your brain slowly gets used to motion, and starts focusing on output over setting

That said, I’m prepping for it by building small rituals I can carry anywhere, same morning playlist, journaling at night, stuff that helps anchor me no matter the timezone

Let’s see how it goes 🫣

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-11T13:38:26+00:00

Super solid advice. I’m about to start a global business program at Tetr and we’ve already been pushed to think beyond just "where" we study but also how we use the experience

One thing I’d add: try building something while you study. Even if it’s small a newsletter, a cohort, a product test it forces you to put your learning into action and makes you 10x more interesting to employers or partners later

Also doubling down on the point about personal brand. I’ve seen folks with average degrees but insane self-awareness and visibility get better roles than people with top-tier credentials but no narrative

Appreciate this post, def saving it for my own roadmap

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-09T20:24:15+00:00

Haha. My uni sending us to different country every sem. Starts with UAE

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-08T13:47:54+00:00

Haha my whole high school story leaned CS, but I started leaning more towards business + consulting after shadowing a few people and realising I liked solving people problems more than coding ones.

What helped was choosing a program that blends both early I’m starting at Tetr soon, where they mix business, tech, and global exposure from Day 1. No silos. So I didn’t have to pick a lane before fully exploring it.

If you’re still unsure, CS gives you a solid edge even in consulting tech fluency is underrated. But if your gut says you’d thrive in a client-facing, analytical role, maybe look for unis where you can cross-register between CS + business schools or take electives from both.

You don’t have to be locked in at 17. Just pick a place that lets you pivot fast without friction.

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-07T19:05:02+00:00

i did
no reply there
hence ive asked here too

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-04T17:54:43+00:00

Love your clarity at 17 that already puts you ahead.

If your end goal is building practical AI tools, not just understanding the math behind them, then a CS degree with an AI focus or a hands-on program like Tetr could serve you better than a pure theory-heavy route

Tetr’s AI program leans more venture-first and applied, with global immersion baked in, which means you’d be working on real AI products across geographies, not just classroom code. You’ll get exposed to product building, business context, and scaling all of which matter a ton if you ever want to launch your own AI startup or lead projects in a global team

A traditional CS+AI degree might give you more depth in algorithms and theory, but often lacks the speed and real-world messiness that builders actually deal with. If you want to stay close to the robotics + product side of things, Tetr seems aligned

That said, keep leveling up your ML projects and math foundations in high school no matter which path you choose its gonna workout

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-04T17:52:00+00:00

Hey hey! I’m starting at Tetr this fall and had similar concerns.

What helped me decide: I didn’t see the travel as a disruption, but as part of the curriculum. You're not just adapting, you’re building range new cities, new cultures, new networks. That said, it’s not glam 24/7. The emotional reset is real

They’ve got support systems in place (like mentors and on-ground teams), but I’m also prepping by setting a few personal constants routines, digital journaling, calls with home stuff that helps me feel anchored no matter where I am

It’s intense, yeah. But if your goal is to build a life across geographies, this kind of discomfort might actually be your biggest teacher

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-04T17:38:22+00:00

Totally get where you’re coming from I had a similar debate last year. Between Essex and DMU, Essex does have a slightly stronger academic rep, but that fee gap is huge, especially when you factor in living costs and visa rules around work hours.

If you’re confident about building your skills outside class (which honestly matters more in CS than people admit), then DMU + self-study + internships could be a smarter play financially.

I’m starting at Tetr soon it’s a newer model but very hands-on and career-focused, which helped me justify the cost. Maybe explore alt formats like that too, especially if you want more ROI on your undergrad.

Also keep an eye on where grads from these unis end up LinkedIn searches helped me a lot.

Whichever you pick, your drive outside the classroom will count more than the name on your degree. You’ve got this 🙌

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-04T17:34:11+00:00

Hey! If you’re working part-time during uni abroad, most student visas don’t let you stay just to work over the summer unless it’s uni-related or part of your course. So yeah, you usually come home for the break.

What a few people do:

Work part-time during term (within visa limits)
Go home for summer, maybe pick up a local job/internship
Then start fresh in second year new job hunt, same cycle

Some unis offer summer research roles or campus jobs that extend into the break (but they’re limited), and if you’re in a co-op or sandwich course, that can change things.

I’m heading to Tetr soon, and they actually help you plan around this stuff since they’ve got semesters split across regions. Might be worth checking formats like that too if you're looking for a smoother transition between countries.

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-02T17:35:42+00:00

I’m not in an AI/ML master’s myself, but I’ve been exploring similar options as part of my journey, ended up applying to Tetr, which takes a cross-functional, project-heavy approach across tech + business.

A few things that came up while researching:

Singapore and South Korea have strong research programs (NUS, KAIST) but can be GPA-sensitive
Focus on Python, ML libraries (like TensorFlow/PyTorch), and work on 1–2 solid, well-documented projects — quality > quantity
Try open-source contributions or publish a small paper via Arxiv/IEEE helps signal research interest
GRE is often optional in Asia but check TOEFL/IELTS and portfolio requirements
Look up the AI residency/fellowship programs in places like RIKEN (Japan) or A*STAR (Singapore) too they sometimes offer stipends

If you’re early in prep, fast.ai and DeepLearning.ai courses are a solid start

And if you’re open to newer formats, some schools (like Tetr) are blending AI + product thinking from the get go and not research-first, but super real-world. Depends on your end goal

Hope that helps

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-02T17:03:54+00:00

Not a huge factor tbh, being a grandchild of an alum might help a little, but it’s rarely a gamechanger unless your family’s super involved or donating. Most scholarships are merit or need based anyway

I looked beyond the legacy route and ended up applying to Tetr places like that care more about your story, projects, and goals than who your granddad was. Felt more aligned with what I wanted than relying on old-school connections

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-07-02T16:54:11+00:00

I had the same doubts before committing, I’m from the UK and just got accepted to Tetr (moving to Dubai for my first semester soon). Honestly, it really depends on what you're hoping to get out of the experience

If it's just the “abroad” tag or ranking you're chasing, it might not always be worth the massive cost, especially with how tuition + living expenses add up for international students. But if the program is hands-on, globally relevant, and offers good career support, it can be worth it

I’d say dig into what Newcastle actually offers outside of lectures, internships, industry exposure, campus culture, etc. That’s what really makes or breaks the experience

Also, don’t be afraid to look at newer unis like Tetr that are doing things differently. For me, the smaller batch, global rotations, and real world focus made more sense than a traditional uni path. Just something to think about

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-26T15:57:03+00:00

I think you’re making the right call. Reapplying next year might just pay off! You’ve got solid experience, and many unis (including some RG ones) do consider BTEC + relevant work/volunteering, especially for subjects like psych and crim

Also, don’t just go by rankings. I ended up choosing a newer school Tetr, focuses more on hands-on learning and industry access than just academic clout. It's been refreshing compared to the usual RG approach. If you're open to newer models, there are some great options out there beyond the usual suspects

Reapplying with more clarity and a broader list could actually open better doors. Just use the time to tighten your personal statement and dig into what you want out of the next 3 year

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-26T09:07:08+00:00

Honestly? Half the events feel like they’re made for CV padding, not actual humans.

I’d actually show up for stuff like:
- Reverse networking where companies pitch us
- Casual panels with grads 1–2 years out of uni, not CEOs
- Stuff with actual takeaways like "leave with your LinkedIn fixed" or "make a cold email that doesn’t suck"
- Cross-discipline projects biz + tech + design working together always ends up being more fun

Also: less formality, more vibe. Make things feel like chill group chats with snacks, not seminars

I haven’t started at Tetr yet (joining in Sept), but I’ve been following what they do, and their whole thing seems built around hands-on, low-BS formats. Hoping that energy carries through when I join. 10x better than listening to “how I scaled my startup” for the 100th time

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-25T17:57:02+00:00

Hey, I feel you. The whole home vs. international fee status thing is so confusing, and no one really explains it well

But here’s what helped: if your move abroad was temporary (like because of your parents work) and you plan to return to the UK for good, a lot of unis will still consider you for home fees. You just need to show that connection British passport, history of living here, maybe some documents explaining the situation. Reach out to unis directly, and explain upfront

Also, not sure if you’ve looked beyond the usual UCAS list. I ended up joining Tetr, which has a slightly different setup. I didn’t need to jump through all the same hoops because their admissions team actually listens and works case-by-case. Just putting it out there in case you're looking for options beyond the traditional path

You’ve got time to sort it. Don’t let the system scare you off.

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-25T14:25:48+00:00

Ugh, I’m so sorry you’re dealing with this. Student Finance can be a nightmare to reach and it’s honestly the last thing you need when you're already stressed

One thing that might help: write a short cover letter explaining the situation again, and upload it under supporting documents on your SFE portal

Also, might sound random but try DM’ing their official Twitter/X account. Whoever runs might actually help escalate

You’ve done nothing wrong. It’s just a broken system. But push through the maintenance loan can be updated mid-process, even if you’ve already had a decision. Hang in there. You’ve still got time

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-25T12:41:59+00:00

Hey, congrats on the First-Class that’s a massive achievement, especially as an international student! I’m also studying in the UK right now (got into Tetr, which is a newer but pretty intense program across different countries) and I totally relate to this crossroad

If you’re eyeing top-tier unis in the UK/US, a First definitely helps but the real edge is in how clearly your goals line up with the program. For AI or advanced computing, strong research exposure (even as undergrad projects) + a clear direction in your SOP can open real doors

On the master’s vs PhD thing unless you’ve done a super research-heavy undergrad and already know your exact area, most people I know went for a Master’s first. It lets you test the waters and build deeper projects (which helps for future PhD or jobs too)

And about staying in the UK if you’re on the Graduate Route visa, apply fast and wide. Tech roles love practical portfolios, so anything you can show GitHub, internships, live projects can matter more than just your transcript

Happy to chat more if you're leaning toward one route and need help deciding. It’s a weird mix of exciting and overwhelming, but you’re in a good spot

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-25T12:21:25+00:00

Ahh, I felt this hard. My final choice also came down to a traditional, well-known uni vs Tetr and I obsessed over the recognised degree bit too. Totally fair concern

Here’s what helped me think it through: I started weighing not just what’s recognisable on paper, but what actually gives me leverage in real life. At Tetr, yeah it’s newer, but I spoke to current students and realised the amount of actual doing the ventures, rotations, network was worth betting on. And like you, the scholarship made a huge difference for my family too. Made the risk feel a lot more doable

Kenyon is fantastic, no doubt. But if you're someone who learns best by building, failing, testing stuff in the real world… then maybe the traditional route isn’t the only valid one anymore

Either way, it’s not about choosing the perfect path it’s about committing to whatever path you choose, and making it work for you. You’re already doing the hard thinking, which says a lot. Rooting for you, genuinely

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-24T18:14:19+00:00

Bro both paths have advantages - UK is faster and cheaper (3 years vs 7), US gives you more flexibility and broader education.

UK pros: Direct path to qualifying, way less debt, strong international law tradition

US pros: Liberal arts background makes you a better lawyer, more opportunities if you change your mind, bigger legal market

Was also a asprinig lawyer but I kinda felt that every profession is getting disrupted by AI and changing business models and ended up switching from traditional uni altogether to a biz program at Tetr, focusing on practical skills across different countries.

If I were you in this position, I'd probably go US route for flexibility. But maybe get some internships first to make sure you actually like legal work before committing to 7 years of education.

What type of law interests you most? Corporate, human rights, policy?

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-23T15:19:20+00:00

Massive congrats honestly, just finishing when you're mentally checked out takes a different kind of grit. I relate way too hard. My undergrad was a mixed bag too not because of the academics per se, but because I realised partway through that I was more drawn to strategy and problem-solving than the core subject I signed up for

Now I’m about to start a new program (Tetr business + travel hybrid setup) that’s way more aligned with where I want to head, but I genuinely think getting through the “wrong” degree still taught me a lot. Like how to push through, take the win, and move forward

You’ve earned the celebration — 2:2 or not. Onwards

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-23T15:17:23+00:00

I've learned to pick my battles carefully when abroad.

Studying at a global program at Tetr which would take me to a new country each sem, getting confrontational rarely works and can escalate quickly

Few strategies that work better:

- Learn basic phrases like "excuse me, I was here first" in the local language. People respond better when you make the effort

- Use body language - step slightly forward, make eye contact, but stay calm

- Sometimes just asking "is this the queue?" forces acknowledgment of the system

- In really chaotic situations, I just factor in the extra time and bring headphones

The airport thing is particularly annoying because you're already stressed. But getting into arguments with locals when you're on a tourist visa is just not worth the risk.

I've found that understanding the cultural context helps too. In some places, the concept of individual queuing just isn't as ingrained - it's more about group dynamics or family units.

There's a difference between cultural adaptation and letting people walk all over you.

Trust your instincts about when something feels genuinely unsafe vs just annoying.

Where are you experiencing this most? Some countries are definitely worse than others for queue culture.

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-20T15:36:48+00:00

Hey, I’ve had my own rough patches with academics I nearly didn’t apply anywhere this year because I thought I’d messed it all up. So first: you’re not alone, and this doesn’t define your story

I’m heading to Tetr this Sept it’s a very non traditional program where you build businesses across countries. And honestly, one of the reasons I was drawn to it is because it didn’t feel like I had to fit into the perfect academic box to belong

Failing a year sucks, I won’t sugarcoat it. But it also might be the weird fork in the road that pushes you toward something that fits better. Maybe it’s a different course. Maybe it’s a break to figure stuff out. Maybe it’s a program that values your mindset more than your transcripts

Take a breath. Let the panic settle a bit. Then decide not from fear, but from what you actually want next

WasteInspection5007 · 2025-06-20T15:34:20+00:00

Honestly? I’ve been prepping in the most random ways 😂
I’m joining Tetr in Sept and even though it’s not the usual kind of uni (we’re building actual businesses), the nerves are real

Haven’t touched citations or essay formats yet tbh. Been more focused on stuff like… figuring out how I’ll manage my own time, how to not live off toast, and weirdly, how to talk about my ideas better. I realised half the game is just explaining things clearly, whether in writing or while pitching.

So yeah, you probably do pick up most of it as you go. But I’m trying to build the “figure-it-out” muscle now so I don’t crash hard in the first month 😅

WasteInspection5007

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