Through Shahid’s Eyes: A Tale of Two Cities, Two Universities, and a Thousand Trees
“Standing beneath the arches of Exeter and then in the heartbeat of London, I realized – every campus tells its own story. And if you listen closely, you’ll know exactly where you belong.”
– Shahid Shaikh, Head of Medicine Admissions
It was a fine morning when our vehicle pulled into Exeter. A soft drizzle had painted the windows, and a quiet fog curled around the old stone buildings in the distance. Stepping out, Shahid wasn’t met with noise or rush – but silence. A kind of peaceful hum that only certain places in the world seem to carry.
The other day, he was standing on a busy street near London’s Moorgate station. Cars honked, business suits zipped past, the sidewalks echoed with the rhythm of the city. The change wasn’t just in landscape – it was in energy, pace, and perspective.
This wasn’t just a campus tour.
This was a journey into two different worlds – each uniquely built for different students.
At UniHawk, we believe that when a student dreams of studying abroad, they’re not just choosing a university – they’re choosing a lifestyle, a city, a way of thinking. That’s why our mentors don’t just advise from afar. They walk the hallways. They sip coffee at campus cafés. They sit in classrooms. And they come back to share, not just information – but experience.
And this is exactly what Shahid, our Head of Medicine Admissions, set out to do on his recent visit to the University of Exeter and City St George’s, University of London – as part of an exclusive UK educators’ trip organized by INTO Global.
His goal? To return with raw, real, and first-hand insights that can guide our students better than any brochure ever could.
A Calm Canvas: The University of Exeter
“I don’t think I was prepared for how serene the Exeter campus would be,” He reflects. “It almost felt like a retreat – just with lecture halls.”
Nestled in the countryside of southwest England, the University of Exeter stretches over lush green expanses and quiet lanes. It’s often ranked as one of the UK’s greenest campuses – and that’s not just marketing speak. The campus is home to nearly 2000 trees, making it feel more like a botanical garden than a conventional college campus.
Shahid explored multiple faculties during his visit – from Business and Architecture to Engineering and Psychology.
He described the Washington Singer Building, which houses the psychology department, as “a castle tucked within a garden,” surrounded by calming fountains and walkways. “There’s a certain energy in those structures. You can tell a lot of thought went into where students will walk, sit, think, and grow.”
Inside, the learning environment is equally thoughtful. He visited Newman Lecture Theatre, Peter Chalk Centre, and the vibrant Forum Building, which includes:
- A well-equipped Digital Hub
- A RAM Bar (yes, a bar on campus!)
- Starbucks for quick caffeine boosts
- The university merchandise centre, and
- Student help desks and social spaces
In the Harrison Building, he saw where Mechanical Engineering students come alive. “They’ve got it all – labs, group work areas, chill zones. It’s everything a modern engineering student needs, set in this breathtaking green space,” he said.
The Business School stood out as an ecosystem in itself, offering international students a structured academic path alongside a lifestyle that’s slow, scenic, and deeply reflective.
And what’s Exeter city like?
“It’s slow-paced. People walk, they smile, they take their time. If you’re someone who likes focus and calm, Exeter will feel like home,” he noted.
A City in Motion: City St George’s, University of London Campus
After Exeter’s tranquility, City St George’s, University of London Campus offered a dramatic contrast.
“You land in London, and you can feel the pace pick up instantly,” he said. “Everyone’s in a rush, and there’s this buzz that you can either get swept up in – or thrive in.”
Located in the heart of London’s business district, City’s Bayes Business School and the Faculty of Law offer students front-row seats to the city’s energy. He walked through the iconic Bayes Business School, peeking into learning pods, faculty areas, and the Library Help Desk, where students often seek academic support.
“You could see the ambition in the walls. It’s not just a place to study – it’s a launchpad for careers,” he noted.
Here, the vibe is distinctly urban. Surrounded by skyscrapers, cafes, and constant movement, the university’s location places students at the intersection of education and industry. “This is a place for go-getters,” he shared. “For students who want to intern at a top firm, grab a coffee, and hit the gym – all before 6 PM.”
London’s diversity also adds depth to the experience. Whether you’re into theatre, technology, politics, or finance, everything is just a few Tube stops away.
Shahid Speaks: Real Thoughts from the Ground
“Every student is different,”. “Some crave calm and nature – that’s Exeter. Some thrive on challenge and energy – that’s City St George’s, University of London.”
He emphasized that neither is better. It’s about fit.
“When I met faculty members and saw where students actually sit and think and build, it hit me – this is where lives are shaped. And I feel proud that at UniHawk, we help students make choices with clarity, not confusion.”
The Power of Being There
Reading about a campus is one thing. Walking it is another.
That’s why we do what we do at UniHawk. When Shahid returned, he didn’t just bring photographs or presentation slides – he brought perspective. That’s what we share with our students – so when they choose a university, they choose it with their eyes open, hearts aligned, and goals in sight.
Key Takeaways for Students
University of Exeter is ideal for students seeking peace, reflection, and a highly immersive campus life surrounded by nature. It’s perfect for those who value space to think, explore ideas, and grow at their own pace. Exeter offers green spaces and strong infrastructure in disciplines like Engineering, Psychology, Business, and Architecture. Facilities like the Forum and Harrison Building enhance the student lifestyle.
City St George’s, University of London is designed for ambitious students who thrive in fast-paced urban environments. Its location offers unparalleled access to business, law, and finance hubs – right in the heart of London. City University offers career-driven exposure, supported by faculties like Bayes Business School and law programs that align closely with industry demands.
Choose based on lifestyle as much as academics. Your pace, personality, and goals matter. Shahid’s trip confirms that both these UK universities cater to distinct student energies.
Our team walks the walk for you. When UniHawk mentors guide you, they’re not reading off a webpage – they’re speaking from lived experiences.
Real insight is the difference. From cafes and student hubs to lecture halls and faculty setups, Shahid’s visit adds depth you won’t find in brochures.
Want to find your perfect fit?
Book a free personalized counselling session with our UniHawk team – and learn the real insights that brochures do not tell you.
