Starting a new chapter of life in the UK as an international student is a journey filled with excitement and hope, but it can also be overwhelming and full of challenges. I know this firsthand because I have lived it.

When I first arrived in the UK, I came with a group of around 20 friends. We were all admitted to the same university, and we shared dreams of a better future, independence, and success. But the reality was much harder than any of us expected. As time went on, I watched my friends struggle and, one by one, drop out of university. The reasons were heartbreaking—misguidance, job insecurity, housing issues, and the lack of proper mentorship.

There was no one to turn to for advice, no one to show us the way. Many of my friends felt lost, unsupported, and disconnected. I remember thinking, this could have been me. But by the grace of Allah, I was able to complete my degree despite the challenges. I experienced the same pressures as many international students—working multiple jobs, finding a place to live, and coping with loneliness far from home. But I was determined to see it through, and today, I am proud to say that I am a graduate of a UK university and currently working as a Customer Service Representative at TfL.

The difference between who I was when I first arrived in the UK and who I am now is extraordinary. That transformation wasn’t just about earning a degree—it was about learning to persevere, to overcome obstacles, and to grow through adversity. I realized that if I could make it through, others could too—but they needed the right support.

This realization inspired me to start the Bangladeshi Student Association UK. I began researching the reasons why students were dropping out, and I connected with people who shared my vision. Together, we built an organization that provides mentorship, resources, and a supportive community for Bangladeshi students in the UK.

Today, I am honoured to serve as the Founder and CEO of this organization. Our goal is to ensure that no student feels isolated or unsupported. We are here to provide the guidance, mentorship, and encouragement that students need to not only survive but thrive in the UK. Through the association, we are creating a space where students can find solutions, build connections, and grow confidently toward their futures.

If you’re struggling, remember that you are not alone. The challenges you face are real, but they are also surmountable. We are here to help you navigate this journey, to make sure that you don’t have to go through it alone. If I can overcome these obstacles, so can you. And together, we can build a stronger community of Bangladeshi students in the UK.