Hello! Tennessee to Cornwall this September...

Hi! I posted in the student forum in February about how I was entertaining the idea of of getting my (long overdue) BA in Illustration from a university in the UK. Well, I'm now longer just entertaining the idea - I formally accepted an offer from Falmouth University and have already paid a deposit to secure a flat near campus. I'll be applying for my Tier 4 visa in July once all my student loans are sorted out.

Since it looks like this move will actually be happening, I decided I should properly introduce myself. I still can't actually believe this is going to be a reality. It has taken A LOT of hard work over the past 8 months or so, and a lot of dreaming for three years before that. But I'm really proud of myself for making it happen.

Anyway, I love this forum and I'm happy to be here!

Hello, cloudsup! Well done for getting yourself sorted! How exciting! Just wanted to say that I'm in Cornwall - St Ives, so about 45 mins from Falmouth. Do let me know if you have any questions about the area!

Welcome! I'm from Tennessee originally (a long time ago...) Cornwall is beautiful.

Congratulations on your upcoming move!  Good luck on your visa application.  I just have a few tips for you. 

Once you get all of your loans in order, make sure that the school sends you a certified copy of your fees, loans, etc.  The school I went to over-nighted this paper to me with an official stamp on it.  Include this paper in your application (and make a copy so that you get your original back).  Make sure that you print out your CAS form, as well, as you will need this in the application.  Carry both the loans form and your CAS with you when you enter the UK on your student visa.  The IO asked me for both when I entered the first time.  I always had them with me when I traveled but was only asked for them the first time when I said that I was coming to begin my university course.

Best of luck!  I am sure that you will have an amazing time!

Thank you all! Glad to see some fellow Tennesseeans here, as well as folks in Cornwall.

Beatlemania, thanks so much for the tips! I'm a total planning junkie and I like to be as researched and prepared as possible so I really can't tell you how invaluable that information is to me. If you have any other tips I'd love to hear them.

Hey there,

I'm not from Tennessee, but I grew up in Detroit and have family there.  I hope you've been settling in well and are enjoying your school programme. I'm over in Truro and am the Fundraising Manager for the hospital's charity here. I'd be happy to chat with you about your experience moving abroad or maybe grab a coffee.

Enjoy the sunshine!

Cheers