My "new London family" - Our Nepalese student support initiative

Published: 15 March 2024

Earlier this year, UoSiL’s International Student Support Advisor, Darren Ramsay, launched a 4-week support group initiative for a cohort of Nepalese students, helping them to successfully adjust to UK university life. With the sessions offering practical advice, insight from university staff, and a culturally informed social space to bond over Nepalese food and music.  

It’s over 4,500 miles from Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, to London but earlier this year it felt a little bit closer for a group of Nepalese students who recently joined the university. Acting in response to concerns around adjustment to university life and transition to the UK, particularly for Nepalese students, Darren set about coordinating a response in collaboration with colleagues from across university departments. Aiming to better connect the students to the university and build a sense of belonging.  

The 4-week support group initiative launched in February, with a programme that featured colleague guest speakers – including from the library, digital coaches, and personal academic tutor team, advice on navigating London’s transport system and course submission deadlines, and a host of cultural activities - from singing Nepalese songs together (accompanied with an acoustic guitar!) to sharing culinary delights including ‘momo’ (Nepalese dumplings). 

Students were encouraged to complete a post-event feedback survey, and rated the support groups highly, commending them as “effective”, “supportive” and "friendly”, with one student describing the group as their “new London family”. Coming together in the support groups has also sparked a desire from the students to continue meeting and plans are even underway to create a Nepalese Student Society through the Students’ Union. 

Given the university’s strategic aim to enhance the student experience and academic outcomes, the progress of the students who took part in the initiative will be tracked over the next two years – covering metrics such as attendance, academic progress, and course completion. Thereby showing how the support group initiative has actively contributed to the students’ success and informing the expansion of the model to other student cohorts facing similar challenges.   

"As our Nepalese student support group comes to a close, I'm reminded of two of the University’s values that bind us together: inclusivity and innovation. It's through inclusivity that we create a space where every voice is heard and valued, and it's through innovation that we find new ways to support and uplift one another.  

Let's carry these values forward to continue creating a community where everyone feels welcome and where new ideas flourish. Thank again you to everyone who contributed to the support group initiative." - Darren Ramsay, International Student Support Advisor