Since an early age I knew I wanted to study abroad. Some of my friends thought I was really brave, some of them thought I was completely crazy. The idea of everything being new always scared me a little but at the same time I couldn’t wait to be living in a different culture, speaking a new language, making new friends that later became like family, and especially – being a university student.

One of the reasons that made me apply to study in the UK was the opportunity to do a placement year. Knowing how competitive the job market is out there, I’ve always been keen on things that I knew would add value to  CV.  The combination of studying abroad plus having a year of work experience before I graduated just sounded perfect to me.

When I first came, I immediately felt at home. I realized I wasn’t the only one moving away from their families and friends; it was a new world to all of us. Despite being an international student, I never felt alone, as soon as people knew I was from another country they would ask questions, showing an interest and wanting to know more about my culture. Day by day I could see my English improving and that I was getting used to this new way of life.

The interesting thing is that in the beginning I couldn’t wait for the holidays so I could go home, a few months later when I was home I couldn’t wait to come back to MY life. It’s always so good to see family and friends but when you have your own life and you are so happy the way it is, you don’t want anything to change.

Last year was dedicated to finding a placement.  I always thought it would be really hard for me to find a good company to work for as English is not my first language. I even thought about applying for placements back home but there was no need for that at all. I applied to Enterprise Rent-a-Car and I felt confident about it since day one.

During the whole process of phone and face to face interviews, as well as the assessment day, the Enterprise team made me feel so comfortable that I could see myself working here even before I had a the confirmation that I was successful in my application. And even though I didn’t get the job I initially had applied to, Enterprise saw the potential in me and offered me another position that I’d never imagined myself in. Today, I can say that I couldn’t see myself doing anything else, I love my job. And I am so happy that I now know what I want to do when I finish university.

To conclude, the one advice I can give to all the international students is not to feel intimidated by the fact that you’re not in your country, not speaking your own language.  Just be yourself, be confident and I’m sure you will be as lucky as me and will end up with a great team that will make you feel at home.

Enterprise is an international global business so it follows that our teams are too. If you are studying in the UK and looking for an exciting challenging role after graduation then take a look at our Enterprise Management Trainee Programme and apply.