What’s it really like to study at King’s? Inside King’s: Student Voices cuts through the prospectus-speak to bring you honest answers from current students navigating life, work, and study in London.

In this week’s post, Aneira, a final-year Law student, reflects on adapting to academic challenges, building a support network and how she made the most of King’s opportunities.

 

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

Hi! I’m Aneira, and I’ve just finished my final year studying Law at King’s. I moved to London three years ago from Dubai, where I was raised, though I’m originally from India. Coming to the UK was a huge step, especially since I’d never lived here before, but it felt like the right move both academically and personally.

Law has always been something I was passionate about, and I knew I wanted to study it in a place where the legal system is historically rich and globally recognised. That’s what first drew me to the UK. I was also looking for an environment that would push me, expose me to new ways of thinking, and give me space to grow as an individual, and London has definitely done that.

Coming to King’s was one of the biggest changes in my life, and also one of the most rewarding. If you’re reading this as someone about to start your own journey here, I’m excited for you. There’s so much ahead.

 

 

What drew you to King’s, and what has your experience been like so far?

When I was deciding where to study law, I looked at a few different places, Dubai, the US, Australia, and the UK. The UK stood out because of how direct the legal education path is. In places like the US or Australia, you’d have to do an undergraduate degree first and then go to law school, which meant spending more years and more money. The UK just made more sense, especially since I knew I wanted to practice law internationally.

Within the UK, King’s immediately caught my attention. It consistently ranked among the top universities for law, alongside places like Oxford, Cambridge and LSE. But rankings weren’t the only thing that mattered. What really made a difference for me was how engaged King’s was with prospective students. I attended university fairs where King’s representatives were present, joined several webinars about their law faculty, and even got to ask questions directly. That early outreach made me feel welcomed before I even applied, and that’s powerful when you’re applying from thousands of miles away.

 

 

What’s one challenge you’ve faced at university, and how did you overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges I faced at King’s was figuring out how to succeed academically, especially when it came to essay writing. In law, almost everything is assessed through essays. Everyone kept telling us to “be critical” in our writing, but no one really explained what that meant in a practical, actionable way.

For a long time, I felt like I was doing all the reading, showing up to lectures, and trying hard, but something just wasn’t clicking. I’d go to office hours and ask questions, but the feedback I got was often too broad. I knew I needed to take things into my own hands.

That’s when I started using platforms like StuDocu, where I could read actual first-class essays and study guides. It helped me see what good critical analysis looked like, how to present arguments and counterarguments, question assumptions, and offer my own perspective with confidence. In law especially, it’s about more than just summarising a case, you need to explore why a judgment matters, what its weaknesses are, and how it fits into wider legal and social discussions.

What I learned is that academic success at university isn’t just about working hard, it’s about working strategically. You have to find the right resources, practise the right skills, and seek out the explanations that make sense to you. So if you’re starting at King’s, my advice is: don’t wait to figure it out by trial and error. Ask for help early. Study past papers. Look at examples of high-scoring work. And most importantly, be patient with yourself, but also be proactive.

 

 

What resources or opportunities at King’s have made a difference for you?

So many. I think one of the most exciting parts of being at King’s is how many opportunities are available if you take the time to look for them. I made it a point to get involved as much as I could, and it really shaped my experience.

One of the first things I engaged with was King’s Careers & Employability. They offer faculty-specific webinars, like how to write legal CVs or apply for pupillages, and even consultancy-style virtual projects. I attended workshops, got help refining my applications, and found courses like negotiation skills that helped me feel more prepared for the future.

I also finally got a job with KCLSU in my final year, something I’d actually been trying to do for three years! The environment there is incredibly supportive and flexible, and it really helped me feel connected to the wider student community. They offer a range of part-time jobs year-round, so I’d definitely encourage new students to keep an eye on those listings.

Beyond that, I was part of the King’s Edge Mentoring programme, where I helped guide younger law students and give them advice on navigating both academics and job applications. That gave me a real sense of purpose, being able to pass on what I wish I had known in my first year.

One of my favourite experiences was with the Civic Leadership Academy (CLA). It’s a programme that trains students to be socially responsible leaders, places you in an external organisation for real-world experience, and offers a ton of personal development workshops, plus, it’s paid. That year really helped me grow, build confidence, and form meaningful relationships with students from across King’s.

And then there’s the Entrepreneurship Institute (EI), I worked as an intern for Snowflake Education, one of the startups supported by EI, and it was honestly one of the most fast-paced, hands-on experiences I’ve ever had. You learn how to work in small teams, adapt quickly, and build confidence in environments where things are constantly shifting. EI also supports alumni, so it’s not just a student resource, it’s something that can support you after graduation, too.

Finally, I worked during the summer as a Course Assistant for King’s Summer School, where I supported international students in their law classes. It was a great mix of academic and social interaction, and a fun way to stay connected to King’s during the summer.

The key thing is: none of these opportunities came to me automatically. I had to search for them, subscribe to newsletters, ask questions, and apply, sometimes more than once. But it was absolutely worth it. Other programs I'd reccomend for students are the King's 100 Program, King's Undergraduate Research Fellowship (KURF), EI's Enterprise Award, President's Global Leadership Award, Summer Exchange Programs and the Associate of King's College London.

 

 

How do you manage the cost of living in London?

London is expensive, there’s no getting around that. When I first moved here, the cost of everything felt shocking. Rent, transport, groceries, even grabbing a coffee, it all added up quickly. Over time, I’ve learned that managing your money in London isn’t about being perfect with your budget, but about being aware and intentional with your choices.

I do try to budget, even if I don’t always follow it strictly. The point isn’t to track every pound, but to understand where my money is going so I can make better decisions. For example, I realised early on that eating out too often was draining my finances. Now I cook at home most days, it’s cheaper, healthier, and honestly kind of therapeutic.

One of the biggest ways I save money is by being smart with groceries. Lidl is the cheapest option for everyday basics, great if you’re watching your spending. Tesco is a solid middle ground: still affordable, but with better quality produce and more variety. I tend to avoid Sainsbury’s, M&S, and Waitrose unless it’s for something specific or a one-off treat, they’re noticeably more expensive, and your weekly shop can double in price if you're not careful.

Small lifestyle changes make a big difference. If I’m craving a matcha or a snack, I ask myself: can I make this at home? If yes, I do. I plan my grocery shopping with little treats in mind so I’m not tempted to splurge spontaneously. And for transport, I got a railcard and linked it to my Oyster card, that gave me a one-third discount on off-peak travel, which really adds up over time.

Social life can also get expensive, especially when you feel pressure to say yes to every plan. I used to say yes to everything because I didn’t want to miss out, but now I’ve learned to prioritise. I try to suggest more budget-friendly alternatives, like having a picnic in the park or hosting a dinner night at home. Some of my best memories have come from simple, affordable hangouts.

Another tip: always ask for student discounts. You’d be surprised how many shops, cafés, and even services offer one. Apps like UNiDAYS and Student Beans are absolute lifesavers. I’ve used them to get up to 20% off on clothes, tech, food delivery, and more. Even when I’m shopping in person, I’ll just ask, “Do you do a student discount?” and often the answer is yes.

If I had to summarise what’s helped me the most, I’d say:

• Tackle the big expenses first: rent, food, and transport.
• Shop smart: Lidl and Tesco for groceries, occasional splurges elsewhere.
• Use student discounts as often as possible, online and in person.
• Make small, sustainable changes: cook more, plan ahead, be selective with spending.
• Work part-time if you can, and use the services available at King’s to support you.
• Be intentional  not just with your money, but with your time and energy too.

It’s definitely a learning curve, but over time you get better at it. And once you do, London becomes a lot more manageable and a lot more enjoyable.

 

 

Have you found a good network or community? How can new students build meaningful connections?

Yes, I’ve been really lucky to build a wide network during my time at King’s, but I’ll be honest, it didn’t happen overnight. It took effort, showing up to things, and sometimes putting myself in slightly uncomfortable social situations just to get started. But it’s so worth it.

A lot of my closest friendships actually started in student accommodation. That’s where you see people at their most real, no pressure to dress up or perform. You’re cooking meals together, doing your laundry, and basically just living life side by side. Some of my best nights weren’t nights out, but just chatting in someone’s kitchen over pasta or running into each other in the hallway and ending up in a long conversation. If you can, I highly recommend living in student halls in your first year, it gives you such a solid base for friendship and support.

Outside of accommodation, most of my wider network came from getting involved,  whether that was joining the Civic Leadership Academy, or mentoring through King’s Edge. Through those roles, I met people from different faculties, year groups, and backgrounds, people I probably wouldn’t have crossed paths with otherwise. Some were short-term connections, others turned into long-term friends, but either way, they made King’s feel less overwhelming and more like a community.

If you’re starting out and wondering how to build meaningful connections, here’s what I’d suggest:

• Go to the fairs: especially the Welcome Fair. Sign up to societies, even if you’re not 100% sure about them. You can always try things out and drop them later.
• Join a sport or interest-based society: it’s one of the easiest ways to meet people regularly. And some societies go on international trips, which are amazing bonding experiences.
• Talk to people in your tutorials: it’s a smaller setting, and you’ll be seeing those faces again and again. Just introducing yourself can open the door to future conversations.
• Attend events hosted by your faculty: in law, we had things like the Law Ball, career panels, and socials that gave us a reason to mix beyond just lectures.
• Say yes early on: the first few weeks are the best time to be a bit extra social, because everyone’s in the same boat and looking to make friends.

Also, not every connection has to turn into a lifelong friendship. Sometimes it’s enough to just share a few meaningful moments with someone, or have a familiar face to wave to on campus. The important thing is to keep putting yourself out there, even in small ways, because those small efforts add up to something really special over time.

 

 

What do you wish someone had told you before starting university?

I wish someone had told me that university, especially at a place like King’s, is just as much about how you navigate it as it is about what the university offers. The opportunities are there, the support systems are there, the people are there, but none of it comes to you passively. You really have to go looking for it.

Academically, I wish someone had sat me down and said: “Spend time figuring out what your lecturers actually expect from you.” I came in assuming that if I did the readings, attended lectures, and wrote what I thought was a solid essay, I’d do well. But university essays, especially in law, are a whole different ball game. If I’d known to study past papers, look at example answers, and ask detailed questions about what “critical analysis” actually means from day one, I think I would’ve avoided a lot of confusion and stress early on.

I also wish I’d joined more societies in my first year, especially the sport-based ones. King’s has amazing societies that go skiing, surfing, hiking, playing volleyball  and I was too nervous or “busy” to explore them at first. Looking back, I really missed out on those bonding experiences and fun escapes from academic stress.

Another thing no one really tells you: London can be overwhelming, especially if you’re coming from a very different culture. I wish someone had reassured me that it’s okay to feel lost for a while. That adjusting takes time. And that you don’t need to have everything figured out by the end of Week One. Honestly, the people who look like they’ve got it all together are usually figuring it out just like you.

So if you're about to start your time at King’s, here’s what I’d pass on:

• Learn how your course works before you fall behind. Read past papers. Ask questions. Get clear on expectations.
• Say yes to things early, try out societies, even if you’re unsure. The risk is low, and the payoff can be huge.
• Don’t panic if you don’t find “your people” straight away. Give it time, and stay open.
• Explore London at your own pace. You don’t have to do everything at once.
• And most importantly, give yourself permission to grow into the experience. You’re not meant to arrive fully formed.

King’s has so much to offer, but it’s up to you to take hold of it.

 

 

If you could do your current academic year again, would you do anything differently?

This year taught me a lot, about time management, juggling responsibilities, and looking after myself. I don’t have major regrets, but if I could rewind and tweak a few things, here’s what I’d do:

First, I’d pace myself from the very start. I got involved in so many projects, working for the King’s Legal Clinic, mentoring and participating in the King’s 100 program through King’s Edge, interning through the Entrepreneurship Institute, and, of course, tackling my final-year law modules. It was thrilling, but by Christmas I was running on empty. If I could go back, I’d choose a slightly lighter load in Term 1 so I could build momentum sustainably and avoid burnout.

Second, I’d schedule regular check-ins with my personal tutor and professors. I know they’re there to help, but I didn’t make the most of them early on. Consistent feedback sessions, even 15 minutes once a month, would have kept me on track academically and given me more confidence in my essays before deadlines loomed.

Third, I’d integrate self-care more intentionally into my routine. I’d start counselling or mindfulness workshops earlier in the term, not only when I felt overwhelmed, but as a proactive way to stay balanced.

Finally, I’d batch my social activities. I love meeting friends and trying new things in London, but when social invites collided with deadlines, I often cancelled or felt guilty or rushed. Setting aside specific “social slots” in my calendar (say, Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons) would have helped me enjoy both work and play without the stress of constant overlap.

 

 

What advice would you give students starting at King’s?

My biggest piece of advice? Be proactive. King’s has so much to offer, from academic support and career guidance to paid student jobs, leadership programmes, language courses, and study abroad options, but none of it will knock on your door. You have to go out and find it.

Spend your first few weeks just exploring what’s available. Sign up for all the newsletters, Careers, KCLSU, King’s Edge, your department, societies, everything. Bookmark the student services portal. Walk through the Welcome Fair with an open mind and sign up for things you’ve never tried before. You don’t have to commit to everything, but at least know what’s out there.

Take your academics seriously, but don’t isolate yourself. Build relationships with your professors and tutors. Go to office hours. Ask for feedback. Use past papers. And don’t wait until you’re struggling to ask for help, whether it’s with coursework, mental health, or just navigating university life. There’s support at every level, but it often requires you to take the first step.

Beyond that, my advice is to treat your time here as a launchpad. Get involved in projects that excite you, even if they feel outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s interning with the Entrepreneurship Institute, joining a student campaign, working for KCLSU, or trying out for a sport, King’s gives you the chance to try things without long-term risk. Take advantage of it.

Finally, remember why you’re here. You’re investing a lot of time, energy, and money into this experience, so use it fully. It doesn’t have to be perfect. But if you show up, stay curious, and stay engaged, you’ll leave with so much more than a degree.

 

 

 

Stay tuned for next week’s post, where we speak to Ryan, a final-year Psychology student, about getting involved with sports societies, navigating your course, and making the most of the opportunities King’s has to offer, both inside and outside the classroom.