Written by Hifsa Aslam Cheema a M.Sc. Marketing and Brand Management NTU Student

I was excited to be in a new country, meet new people, and take advantage of new chances when I initially arrived in Nottingham as an international student. However, I also felt overwhelmed pretty fast. It was more difficult than I anticipated to acclimate. I had to contend with juggling schoolwork, homesickness, a whole new culture, and the need to maximize my time overseas. I first realized how complicated and significant mental health is during those first few months, particularly for students like me who live far from home. I became a Student Mental Health Champion at NTU in part because I wanted to help other students especially those from other countries who could be experiencing similar emotions to mine.

Unspoken Challenges

Studying overseas can be a wonderful adventure, as it is sometimes depicted. However, many people don’t discuss the emotional and mental difficulties that accompany it. It was a combination of:

• Learning the “unwritten rules” of a new society is known as cultural adjustment.

• Language stress includes speaking English fluently as well as projecting confidence during presentations and seminars.

• Academic pressure: the desire to achieve success and bring honour to my family.

• Loneliness: particularly on weekends or holidays when everyone appears to return home.

Why I Became a Student Mental Health Champion?

Being an NTU Student Mental Health Champion was more than simply a title; it was a road of development, compassion, and meaning. Everything from mental health awareness and active listening to directing students to the appropriate support agencies was covered in our training. Although we are empathetic to peers who know what it’s like to be overburdened, it is important to say that we are not counsellors within this role. I wanted to do more than just finish my course, so I joined the Student Mental Health Champion team. I wanted to change things. It also served as a reminder that there is always support available and that simply talking about your feelings can significantly reduce them or lift a huge weight.

Support Is Here, You’re Not Alone

I urge all students, especially those studying abroad, to make the most of the many support resources that NTU provides. Among the ones that most aided me are:

• NTU Wellbeing Services – confidential support with trained professionals.

• The Global Lounge a space to meet students from all over the world and build friendships.

• Student societies and events finding people with similar interests really helped me feel more at home.

• Student Mental Health Champions like me! We’re students too, and we’re here to listen without judgment.

Finding Peace and Support at Boots Library

As a student, are you feeling overburdened? You’re not by yourself. Boots Library was my haven when I first got to NTU; it was a peaceful place where I could relax, think, and acquire the assignment and study assistance I needed. With its welcoming staff and confidence-boosting courses, it’s more than just a library. Their assistance was invaluable, from helping me navigate academic materials to teaching me the correct way to cite sources. In order to help students succeed, I also found workshops on time management, writing strategies, and study skills. Boots Library was more than just books to me; it was a place where I could study, belong, and find calm in the middle of change.

What I Wish I Knew in My First Term

If I could go back in time knowing what I know now, this is what I would say to my past self:

1. Struggling with this part of the student journey can be normal. Whether they express it or not, everyone does.

2. Avoid solitary confinement. Accept invitations to activities, coffee dates, or simply a conversation after class.

3. Seek assistance early. Support is available for both academic and emotional needs.

4. Acknowledge your minor victories. It’s a journey, not a race, to adjust.

5. This is where you belong. You have merited your position and are a significant member of this community.

Growth Through Connection  

Being an international student is one of the most rewarding and difficult experience of my life. As a Student Mental Health Champion, I’ve also discovered that real strength isn’t about keeping up a façade; rather, it’s about understanding when to support and when to reach out to others. You’re not alone if you’re reading this and are feeling uncertain, overburdened, or just need someone to talk to. We care and we’re here.

Let’s keep the conversation going. Let’s support each other across cultures, courses, and experiences. That’s what community is all about.

For help, advice and resources whilst studying at NTU, take a look at the following for sources of support.
Support from NTU
Self-Care books in NTU’s libraries
Silvercloud: SilverCloud is our online system designed to help with a range of mental health issues.
Health and Wellbeing resources
NTSU Information and Advice service
Wellness in Mind: Advice and support for anyone in Nottingham experiencing issues with their mental wellbeing
Student Minds or Student Space
10 Keys to happiness
Mind
Papyrus
CALM