Adjusting to Life Back in Manchester

By Ava Griffiths, University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA

Returning to life back in Manchester has been a bit strange.

Depending on how your time abroad went, you might feel relieved? Sad? Excited? For me, it was mostly sadness. You go from this amazing, high-energy experience to suddenly being back where you started. People you knew have graduated and moved on, and now you only recognise a few familiar faces in your classes. It’s totally normal to feel a bit off… but being in your final year does help! You’ve got your degree to focus on, and with that pressure, it can serve as a good distraction from any lingering post-abroad blues.

With just over a month left of university, I’ve put together a few things that helped me ease back into life in Manchester. First off, I recommend putting up all your memories, photos, and souvenirs from your time abroad in your new room. Whether it’s a picture from a weekend trip, postcards, or little trinkets you picked up along the way, having these reminders visible helps you keep a part of that experience with you. It’s a simple way to feel connected to those memories while settling back into your routine.

This might seem obvious, but it’s so important to stay connected with your friends from abroad. I met so many people from the UK during my time overseas, and even though we don’t get to meet up all the time since we’re scattered across the country, when we do, it’s always such a special reunion! Sharing that experience of being abroad really bonds you in a unique way, and keeping in touch helps you stay connected to that time. As the months went by back in Manchester, I started to feel like my time abroad was fading into the background. That’s why staying in contact, whether it’s through regular calls, FaceTime, or planning meet-ups, is key to keeping those memories alive and feeling like the experience is still a part of your life.

Become a global ambassador! Not only is it a great addition to your CV, but it’s also a fantastic way to stay connected to your time abroad. As a global ambassador, you get the opportunity to share your experiences, offer advice, and reflect on your time overseas, keeping those memories fresh. You’ll also have the chance to volunteer at “Go Abroad” events, where you can meet prospective students, offer tips, and continue talking about your journey. It’s a great way to help others prepare for their own adventures while keeping the excitement of your own experience alive. 

Well, that’s it from me! I hope you’ve enjoyed following my journey through these blogs, it feels like a lifetime since I wrote my first one. If you’re reading this and thinking about going abroad, do it. Take that leap. It will challenge you but also leave you with memories you’ll carry for life.

Now, I’ve got a dissertation to finish and a graduation to look forward to, but this chapter will always hold a special place in my heart. Thanks for reading, and good luck with your own adventures!

And as always…

On, Wisconsin!