Dear future Notty Norse,
The whole point of the year abroad trip is to immerse oneself into a culture different from your own. Last semester, we did this by studying our new home from books, film and travel. It was helpful to have the cultural context necessary to understand our surroundings but it felt like most of my time was spent observing the culture from a distance. Making the jump from witness to participant is vital in order to fully enjoy your time in a new space.
Here are a few helpful tips that I’ve learned about becoming more acquainted with Nottingham.
- Make Friends
This is probably the most important step. It can be really difficult working on it especially with the flat being a little far from campus but there are so many ways to do so. Like joining student societies. This is the best decision I’ve made so far. UoN has several student groups connected by shared identities, hobbies or interests. I’ve been most successful in fostering relationships this way because it also ensures that I regularly go out and talk to new people. Secondly, the internet is your friend. Whether it’s using Bumble’s find a friend option, joining special interest Facebook groups or just following your classmates on social media. Getting in touch online can be less nerve-wracking and be a little less awkward than walking up to a total stranger sometimes.
- Go to local events
This varies depending on your interests but stay aware of what’s going on in Nottingham. Luckily there are tons of options to choose from. Concerts, theater shows and art exhibits galore. A great way to find these kinds of events is follow event spaces on instagram or other social sites. So if you love a good art exhibit, follow Nottingham contemporary or New Art Exchange. If a night out is more your speed, follow Unit13 or PRYZM and see what events they have to offer. This way you are continuously aware of events as they happen. I’d like to add that going as a group can be fun but don’t let riding solo be what deters you from enjoying yourself. Depending on the space, going alone makes it easier to connect with the people around you or fully enjoy an experience.
- Take the road less traveled
Nottingham can start to feel a lot less exciting when you limit your exploration to city center. As you adjust to a new city the bigger stores or food chains are an easy place to start as you become more familiar with the products and food options in the UK but I would advise venturing off into local corner stores and markets. Something that has greatly contributed to my time abroad is purposefully seeking out local businesses. It’s important to look out for the community that you are now a part of even if your stay is temporary. Shopping in independent shops also means you’re probably getting better deals so that is a bonus.
- Find your spot
Find a spot that you visit regularly. It can be a coffee shop, pub, library or whatever. You just want it to be intimate enough of a space that you eventually recognise the people around you. This is helpful because if it's a fairly niche place you will run into people with similar interests and build a sense of community. The goal isn't necessarily to make friends but to find people and a place that becomes comfortable. When you’re in a new country constantly feeling lost or out of place can be exhausting so your spot can be the one place that feels familiar. A great example is a Southern African pub near the flat. It has become my go to when I need a little slice of home. It is small enough that I know the owner and I’ve met incredible people that have taught me a lot about Nottingham. I would highly recommend picking a spot.
I’d like to end this by stressing the importance of not being afraid to get out on your own. If you’re waiting around for someone to join you all the time you’ll miss out on a lot of exciting experiences. You don’t want to be what gets in the way of you having an unforgettable year abroad.
Sincerely,
A current Notty Norse
xx