Life after graduation: Ayushi’s journey from India to the UK and beyond
Follow Ayushi’s journey from India to Cranfield University and on to a finance career in Dubai, with honest insights on funding, part-time work, job hunting and building confidence abroad.
Choosing to study abroad is one of the biggest decisions many students make. It means leaving familiar surroundings and trusting a future you are still creating. For Ayushi, a Prodigy Finance borrower, mentor and Cranfield University alumna, this choice opened the door to discovery, growth and global opportunities.
This story shares her full journey, from selecting the UK to adjusting to university life, finding her first role and eventually moving to Dubai. Her experience offers guidance and reassurance for students planning an international path.
Why Ayushi chose the UK for her master’s degree
Many Indian students focus on the US for postgraduate studies. Ayushi chose the UK for reasons that were personal and practical.
A one-year master’s programme
A 12 to 13-month degree meant saving time and money while still earning a respected qualification.
COVID-era travel considerations
When she was planning her move, the UK offered clearer travel and visa rules.
A strong interest in London and the UK
She felt drawn to the culture, lifestyle and diversity of London.
Cranfield University’s reputation
Cranfield’s Master’s in Management programme ranked highly in the UK and globally. It also included a one-month study experience in Spain, which she saw as an added advantage.
Arriving in the UK: the early days
Landing in a new country brings excitement and uncertainty. The UK felt fast, diverse and energising for Ayushi.
A fast-paced global environment
Coming from a small town where evenings get quiet early, London felt like it never slowed down.
A diverse classroom
She worked with classmates from Europe, East Asia, Africa and other regions. These interactions shaped her perspective and confidence.
A new academic approach
UK education felt more research driven and discussion based. Lectures, assessments and group work encouraged critical thinking and independence.
Managing finances abroad: part-time work and budgeting
UK living costs can be high, especially when you settle into a new routine. Ayushi financed her tuition with a Prodigy Finance loan*. She covered living costs by working part-time in restaurants and warehouses.
These roles helped her:
Build confidence
Learn budgeting
Manage her time well
Grow into the mindset of a working professional
For many international students, part-time work becomes an important stepping stone toward independence.
Finding a job after graduation
Ayushi stayed in the UK for almost three years. She combined her studies, part-time work and a long search for her first full-time role.
The competitive UK job market
With both local and international applicants competing for the same positions, finding the right role takes time. Ayushi spent months networking, applying online and attending events.
An unexpected opportunity
Her first full-time role came from a chance conversation with a customer at her part-time job. They later met for coffee, which led to an opportunity and eventually her first professional role.
Her advice is simple. Be confident, speak to people and stay open to every interaction. Opportunities can appear anywhere.
A new chapter: building a career in Dubai
After gaining experience in the UK, Ayushi felt ready for a new environment. Dubai appealed to her with its global energy and rapid growth.
The decision to move
She applied through job portals, completed interviews and secured a role in finance.
Working in trade finance
She now manages financial processes linked to imports and exports, including documentation and cross-border transactions.
Although her programme focused on management, she found her transferable skills valuable. Communication, analysis, research and prioritisation helped her adjust to the finance sector.
Life in Dubai
Dubai feels familiar and exciting. It is fast-moving and diverse, with many opportunities for growth.
What she learned from studying abroad
Ayushi would not change any part of her journey. Each challenge helped her grow in confidence and independence.
Her key reflections include:
Believe in yourself, confidence matters.
Stay positive, challenges pass.
Keep learning, skills need regular updates.
Speak up and stay open-minded, your voice creates opportunities.
Take the first step even if it feels difficult.
Conclusion: your journey can start today
Ayushi’s story shows that studying abroad is more than earning a degree. It helps you discover your strengths, understand your ambitions and build a global life.
If you are ready to take the next step, you can check your eligibility for a Prodigy Finance loan today*.
