My name is Arianna Albán from Ecuador, and I graduated from Logos Academy in 2024. I’m currently pursuing a double degree in Politics and International Relations at the University of Essex in the United Kingdom. Looking back, I can confidently say that my journey into this field began long before university; it started during the IB Diploma Programme.

Discovering my path in high school

In my final two years of high school, I completed the IB Diploma Programme, taking six subjects (Business and Management HL, Language and Literature HL, English A: Language and Literature, Mathematics AA: Analysis and Approaches, Philosophy SL, and Biology SL) along with the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge. The IB itself was intense. There were constant deadlines, overlapping internal assessments, and months that felt overwhelmingly demanding. Yet, it remains one of the most meaningful periods of my life. I shared that experience with a close group of friends, and we supported each other through the pressure. I graduated with 38 out of 45 points, a result that allowed me to enter my university programme directly. More importantly, the IB prepared me mentally for academic rigor. After going through it, I rarely feel academically intimidated.

However, what truly shaped my academic direction was my involvement in United Nations Models (MUNs). I participated in MUNs for several years and served as President during my last two high school years. What started as a hobby during the pandemic gradually became something much more serious. Through debates, resolutions, and diplomatic simulations, I discovered my passion for politics and global affairs. MUNs challenged me to research complex issues, think from perspectives different from my own, and speak confidently under pressure. It strengthened my analytical skills and showed me how dialogue and negotiation can shape real-world outcomes. Serving as President further deepened my interest, as I took on leadership responsibilities and helped guide other students through the same experience that had inspired me.

Applying as an International student to the UK through UCAS

Applying to the UK system was very different from other countries. Through UCAS, you can only apply to five universities. Initially, I chose my options based on general rankings and reputation. Interestingly, the University of Essex was not my first choice — I listed it as a backup option.

However, once I received my offers and began researching more deeply, I realized that Essex’s Politics and International Relations department was highly ranked, particularly strong in research, and located close to London. It suddenly became the perfect fit. What I thought was a “just in case” option turned out to be the right decision.

Life in Colchester and Academic Structure

The university is located in Colchester, a small and peaceful university town in the county of Essex. I love the balance here. Campus life is vibrant, with countless societies and events, yet the town itself feels calm, safe, and surrounded by nature. When I want something more dynamic, London is only 40 minutes away by train.

Academically, the UK system differs significantly from what I was used to. Instead of many small assignments, most modules are assessed through one or two major pieces of coursework — often weighted 60% and 40%. At first, it feels less overwhelming because you are not constantly submitting tasks. But the responsibility is greater: each essay carries substantial weight.

What has helped me manage this is something I learned during the IB — planning ahead. I draft detailed outlines, attend office hours, ask professors for feedback before submitting, and approach each assignment strategically. Being proactive makes all the difference.

Cultural Adjustment and Personal Growth

My first semester was honestly very difficult. I applied for my visa late because I was unsure about moving abroad, so when it was finally approved, I had only a week to prepare before leaving. Suddenly, I was living alone in a new country, entering winter, and adjusting to an entirely different academic system.

The cultural adjustment was challenging, too. British students are kind but often more reserved. Combined with the early sunsets in winter and the cold weather, it felt overwhelming at times. January was probably my lowest point.

But I made a conscious decision to push myself — to put myself out there, join activities, and connect with other students. Many international students are going through the same transition, and that shared experience creates strong bonds. My closest friends here are from Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina, and I’ve also formed friendships with students from Turkey and Pakistan. Being surrounded by people from diverse backgrounds has expanded my worldview in ways I could not have imagined.

Academic and Professional Opportunities

Essex offers numerous societies, career fairs, internship opportunities, and optional modules starting in second year. International Relations is such a broad field that I can tailor my studies toward human rights, political economy, diplomacy, or other areas depending on what I want to pursue in the future. Studying International Relations has already given me meaningful practical exposure beyond the classroom.

• CPPS INTERNSHIP: After my first year, I completed an internship at the Permanent Commission for the South Pacific (CPPS) in Ecuador. There, I observed how regional international organizations operate internally — from bureaucratic coordination to treaty negotiations. I even conducted research related to the UN BBNJ agreement and its potential political implications. It was my first real application of what I studied, and it confirmed that I am on the right path.

• Volunteering: At university, I am also involved in volunteering through a student-led initiative that organizes English classes for refugees. Teaching English to individuals who have also left their home countries is deeply meaningful to me. While my circumstances are very different, I understand what it feels like to live somewhere that is not your home. Being able to support others in their integration process feels incredibly rewarding.

All in all, my degree has allowed me to engage in real-world opportunities and experience firsthand how diplomacy and international relations are managed, while never losing sight of the importance of humanity and ethics.

Advice for Future Students

• Research departments carefully: In the UK, departmental reputation matters greatly — sometimes more than the overall university ranking. And since UCAS only allows five applications, each choice should be intentional.

• Apply early: Because of how UCAS works, some universities and competitive programmes can become highly selective as spots fill up. Applying early gives you a stronger chance of being considered while more spaces are still available, and it also reduces unnecessary stress later in the process.

• Be brave: Moving abroad can be intimidating, and the beginning may feel uncomfortable. But the growth, independence, and opportunities that follow are worth it. Don’t throw away your shot!