"In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer." – Albert Camus

As the chilly winds of winter swept over Lancaster, I found myself embracing this sentiment more than ever. Being away from home during the holiday season brought a mix of excitement and homesickness. But through it all, I discovered that even in the coldest moments, there are warm, resilient experiences to cherish—whether it’s spending time with friends, the kindness of strangers, or the festive activities that brought the campus alive.

Hi, I’m Ishika Mahajan, an MSc Investment Management and Financial Analysis student at Lancaster University. As an international student away from home, navigating the festive season was a unique experience. There were moments of homesickness, but the holiday spirit at Lancaster made it feel like a second home.

One of the most memorable parts of this season was visiting Christmas markets in four cities: Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. Each city had its own charm. Manchester’s market was filled with delicious aromas and twinkling lights. Liverpool’s market was vibrant, with festive treats and a lively atmosphere. Edinburgh’s market exuded a magical vibe with cobblestone streets, and Glasgow’s market was a true spectacle of lights and Christmas cheer. Lancaster’s own Christmas market, right on campus, added to the festive spirit, with delicious food, treats, and hot drinks to warm up. These markets provided a sense of joy and community, despite being far from home.

The holiday season wasn’t just about markets—it was also about making memories. The Graduate College organised a trip to Liverpool, where we explored the city’s waterfront and Christmas markets, creating new memories with friends. On campus, I joined in a Christmas cookie decoration event that allowed me to be creative and bond with fellow students. Lancaster was alive with holiday cheer, from twinkling lights to the nearby ice rink, which was perfect for unwinding after coursework.

Speaking of coursework, the holiday season didn’t stop assignments and exams from looming. The last day of coursework was bittersweet, as I wrapped up assignments, gave presentations, and said goodbye to classmates and professors. Lancaster’s sense of community made this transition easier, with supportive staff and fellow students who made the academic pressure more manageable during the busy holiday season.

I also had the opportunity to work as a graduate assistant during the senior graduation ceremony, helping graduates prepare for their big day. Though it was a small role, it was special to be part of such an important occasion. Additionally, I volunteered with the "Giving Hope" team, packing Christmas goodies for mothers and children in need, which was both fulfilling and meaningful during the festive season.

Though the holidays were a time of joy, the reality of Lent term soon set in, with new assignments and classes starting up again. But amidst all of this, I found comfort in Lancaster’s welcoming and supportive environment, which made me feel right at home.

In the end, my winter in Lancaster was a perfect blend of academic achievements, festive fun, and meaningful experiences. Whether exploring nearby cities, participating in campus events, or enjoying the snow, Lancaster offered a warm and enriching experience. For prospective students, Lancaster is a place where you can thrive academically, personally, and feel at home, no matter the season.

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