Moving or traveling to a different country can be both thrilling and intimidating. While it brings new adventures and opportunities, adjusting to a new culture can be challenging. A woman relocated her family over 6,000 miles to start a new life in the UK, sharing her experiences.
In January 2023, Lyssa Jen, a mother from the Philippines, decided to pursue a UK pathway by taking the QET, a prominent English test for healthcare professionals. She successfully passed the test and secured a job at an NHS trust by November of the same year. After receiving her visa approval, she bid farewell with a going-away party in December.
After a year of dedicated study and work, in March 2024, she undertook the OSCE exam at the University of Nottingham, a crucial test for the Nursing and Midwifery Council.
The UK offers numerous opportunities for foreign nationals, with around 200,000 Filipinos having already chosen to settle in the UK, as reported by Immigration Advice Service.
In June of that year, her partner and two children were able to join her in the UK to start a new chapter, and they have embraced their new life wholeheartedly.
Having spent over a year in the UK, the family has learned various aspects of life in the country, from housing regulations to healthcare and more.
Lyssa shared her insights on the UK through her TikTok account, @lyssajenn, highlighting aspects such as shopping at charity shops for savings, strict waste disposal rules, emphasis on cycling/walking to work, promoting reading among children, and the extended summer months from June to August.
She also mentioned the work-life balance expectations in the NHS, the popularity of fish and chips, abundance of chocolates, availability of affordable items, and the generosity of people in donating unused belongings.
The family has appreciated the free healthcare, fresh fruits, and educational benefits for young students. While enjoying their time in the UK, they have encountered both positive and challenging aspects of life in the country.
Comments on her post reflected support and acknowledgment of the journey, with individuals expressing varying perspectives on the realities of living in the UK. The experiences shared provide valuable insights into the cultural adjustments and opportunities that come with relocating to a new country.