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Topic: Hi all!  (Read 798 times)

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Hi all!
« on: September 30, 2014, 08:39:49 PM »
Hey everyone!

Right now I live in the states but am considering a move to somewhere in the UK later in life. I'm studying to become a Mechanical Engineer right now, and would probably move some time after I graduate with a masters. I was hoping to do a study abroad experience <rant> but the incompetence of the US educational financing system might make this impossible. (I digress!) </rant>

I had a unique experience growing up. For a large amount of my childhood I grew up in an Irish influenced household, and then in a separate household that was strictly Americanized.

This experience really opened me up to the Idea of leaving the states, and in recent years I find my level of discontent with it here growing daily.

Thanks for reading! I hope to get to know you all!


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Re: Hi all!
« Reply #1 on: October 01, 2014, 08:17:10 PM »
Hiya, and welcome to the forums.

To give you a heads up, you may find it difficult to get a visa to move to the UK.  The UK is currently very strict on immigration, and it is generally hard to qualify for a work visa.  It's not impossible, but be prepared for a potentially long journey ahead.

For a UK employer to sponsor a non-EU citizen for a work visa, they must be able to demonstrate that no one in the UK and EU is able to fill the position first.  The only exception is if the job is on the shortage occupation list.  Looking at the most recent copy of the list, the only mechanical engineers on the list are those in the oil and gas industry.

Also keep in mind that immigration can chanage; depending on how far in advance you're thinking of moving, it may be easier or harder to qualify for a visa as the rules change, though I suspect harder.  (and same for the shortage occupation list; the list may be different in a year, and your occupation may no longer be considered in shortage or vice versa)

I know you're mentioned it is difficult, but if you could swing a study abroad year (or even half year), that would probably be best to start.  You could spend a good bit of time in the UK and really get a feel of living here, and not just visiting.  And, you could have a wander around and see where in the UK appeals to you.  And if you love it, you can work towards qualifying for a visa to eventually relocate.

Good luck with your journey; feel free to ask around for forums for any further info.  :)


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Re: Hi all!
« Reply #2 on: October 01, 2014, 08:25:40 PM »
Hey everyone!
I was hoping to do a study abroad experience <rant> but the incompetence of the US educational financing system might make this impossible. (I digress!) </rant>

I'm sure you've already looked into this, but speak with the International Office at your university.  I did a study abroad experience as an undergrad in 2007.  There were several others who were in receipt of federal loans at the time, and they didn't have any problems with financing.  My university also provided a scholarship/grant for those wishing to travel abroad.  I think I got around $800 -- so it at least covered the flights!  If they don't have a program to facilitate this, maybe they know of various scholarships externally that they can point you towards.

My life took an unexpected turn after my semester abroad, and things since then have been (mostly) amazing!  Please don't let some red tape/additional paperwork get in the way of your goals :)
2007-Short Term Student;   2010-T4;   2011-T1 PSW;   2013-FLR(M);    2015-ILR;    2016 - Citizenship (approved!)


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