From India to Kent Business School: my international student journey

Group of international PG students at Kent University in front of global grocery supplies

Drishti Mehra, recently graduated with a distinction in MSc Digital Marketing and Analytics.

“Moving to a new country to study can be exciting and overwhelming but choosing Kent was a great decision. My experience has been filled with academic challenges, inspiring friendships, and countless opportunities to grow, both personally and professionally.” Here’s my story.

Finding my place

From the moment I arrived, the university made it easy to settle in. My accommodation was comfortable and conveniently located, offering a real sense of community right from day one. Living among other students allowed me to build friendships across cultures, making every day feel like a new opportunity to learn and connect. The global community at Kent is truly remarkable. As an international student from India, it meant a lot to find myself surrounded by people from every corner of the globe — Canada, Nigeria, Thailand, Greece, China, and many other countries. The friendships I’ve built here have been one of the most rewarding aspects of my time at Kent, helping me feel connected and inspired as I explore this new chapter of my life.

Building connections beyond the classroom 

Kent is more than just an academic institution; it’s a global hub where you learn as much outside the classroom as within. Being part of the K-Pop Dance Society was a highlight, and attending weekly dance classes on Wednesdays was a perfect way to break up my week. It gave me a chance to bond with other students over a shared interest. The university also hosts global hangout events, where international students can meet, socialise, and share experiences. Additionally, as a member of the Indian Society, I participated in festival celebrations like Diwali, which brought a sense of home and cultural familiarity right to campus. These events, like the lively Taylor Swift Eras Tour screening, crafternoons, movie nights, accommodation building meets, and even bubble football games, created a vibrant student life that went beyond the lecture halls and study rooms. 

Find out more about being an international student at the University of Kent. 

Academic excellence and support

Kent Business School has truly stood out. Its emphasis on practical knowledge has allowed me to gain not only a solid foundation in digital marketing and analytics but also hands-on experience in real-world applications.  

The faculty is incredibly supportive, and the academic challenges pushed me to achieve more than I expected.  

I was thrilled to graduate with a distinction in my MSc in Digital Marketing and Analytics. The guidance I received from lecturers and access to excellent resources made this accomplishment possible. They encouraged us to ask questions and dive deeper into subjects, making the learning experience genuinely engaging and enriching. KBS’s connections with an extensive alumni network added another layer of support and opportunity, connecting students with successful graduates who provided mentoring and networking opportunities. 

Professional growth and career opportunities 

Kent’s commitment to career development is one of the primary reasons I chose this university. I had the chance to work as a KBS Ambassador during open days, where I shared my experiences with prospective students, and as a Student Content Creator, which allowed me to combine my passion for digital marketing with storytelling.  

These roles helped me develop relevant skills, and I could already see how my coursework was translating into practical, professional experience. 

Working with Kent Union as a Student Voice Assistant further enriched my journey, allowing me to represent student voices and work on initiatives to improve our university experience. I also collaborated with the university during the Congregation Ceremonies and was part of the organising team for the Medway Gaming Festival, which taught me event management and project coordination—skills that are invaluable in digital marketing and analytics. Each experience has not only enhanced my resume but has also provided invaluable real-world learning. 

What Kent University means to me 

My time here has been a blend of rigorous study, meaningful friendships, and experiences that I’ll carry forward into my career and life. I’ve found Kent’s global community to be warm, welcoming, and inspiring, and the university’s dedication to student support and career progression has given me confidence in my next steps. 

My tips for future students 

I’d say: embrace every opportunity. The blend of academic rigour, social activities, and professional development will shape your journey in ways you can’t predict. I came to Kent to study digital marketing, but I’m leaving with lifelong friendships, a global perspective, skills that will serve me well in whatever path I choose. Kent has truly become my second home, and I’m grateful for every moment of my journey here. 

Find out more about studying at Kent Business School. 

 

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