Julia Staszewska: My journey from Poland to DMU


International Business graduate Julia Staszewska shares her journey from Poland to De Montfort University (DMU) Leicester and how it's helped her to pursue her dream career.

I grew up in Namysłów, a small town in the south of Poland and always imagined myself going to university. My dad was a manager, who worked from home and his work ethic greatly influenced me in my early years.

Initially, I always thought I’d follow most of my friends and become a lawyer but a few months before my final exams, I began to rethink my path. I wanted to do something that better aligned with my interests in politics and international relations, so I decided international business would be more for me.

I’m already a fan of British culture and music, particularly Oasis as I remember my parents would often listen to their songs. Studying international business was my opportunity to immerse myself in an English-speaking environment, so I decided to look for UK universities.

After a quick Google search, I found DMU and loved the diversity, sustainability initiatives and city-centre location. It was perfect for international students like me. I came over in 2021, nervous but also excited for the journey ahead.

Julia DMU Sign

I won’t lie, the first few months were difficult. I often felt homesick, missing my family and struggling to adjust to life in a foreign country. There were days when I would spend hours in bed, overwhelmed with thoughts of home, but I was determined to keep going.

"I don’t have to be here," I would tell myself, “But I’m here to gain experience and knowledge, and these feelings won’t last forever."

Acknowledging these feelings helped me come out my shell more. I started meeting new people, particularly other Polish students, and began getting involved in university life.

Joining different student societies played a huge role in helping me settle in. I became part of the Fashion Society, where I went to weekly meetings, watched films, and explored creative projects. It opened my eyes to the world of fashion merchandising and that became a potential career path.

Julia fashion society

I also joined the Yoga Society, which not only helped me stay active but also supported my mental wellbeing.

This gave me a new found confidence and, after being encouraged by a friend to apply to become a student ambassador, I soon found myself representing DMU at Open Days. It was a big step for me but the role allowed me to meet prospective students, share my experiences, and make connections with new lecturers.

The flexibility of the role also meant I could balance it with my studies, and it became one of the highlights of my university experience.

Julia student ambassador open day

As I settled into my new life, it dawned on me that everything was falling into place. I thought to myself, "I spend my time in a really nice place, and I’m surrounded by great people."

I fell in love with Leicester’s green spaces and Victoria Park became a haven for me. I even developed a routine of walking there and treating myself to coffee and a pastry at The Tiny Bakery.

Now that I’m looking back, I’m glad I gave myself time.

To any international students who might be struggling, remember those feelings won’t last forever. Talk to your family, or someone with more experience – they often know what’s best.

My parents played a key role in helping me get through tough times and I credit their advice, as well as the strong friendships I built in Leicester and DMU for helping me adjust to a new country.

Julia family graduation

I’m now over at Trinity College in Dublin, studying for my Master’s in International Management. If it wasn’t for DMU, I wouldn’t be here and I wouldn’t be pursuing my dream to work in fashion merchandising.

Hopefully soon I can start my career at a major fashion chain like Next or H&M. DMU was a big part of my life, taking me from a nervous student to a confident young woman with a clear vision for my future.
Posted on Tuesday 29 October 2024

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