Anna Tevanyan, an ISH resident (2020-2023), shares her memories of living in the House.
Moving to London from a small town in Armenia during the global pandemic felt disorienting and overwhelming. Everything was new — the pace, the people, even the air felt different. But the moment I walked through the doors of International Students House (ISH), all those feelings melted away. The warmth of the welcome I received from the staff made me feel instantly at home. The loud hustle and bustle of central London was replaced by the colourful walls, cosy study corners, and friendly faces of ISH. I knew right then that this place wasn’t just going to be accommodation — it was going to be a safe harbour where I could focus on my studies, grow as a person, and meet people from all over the world.
One moment that stays with me is something my roommate once said during one of our late-night conversations: “We can’t choose what happens to us, but we can choose how we react.” That simple sentence really struck a chord with me. It became my anchor during challenging times, a reminder that resilience is something we build from within.
Some of my most treasured memories come from the Christmas charity event ISH organised for elderly residents from local care homes. I volunteered that year, helping to serve meals, play games, and sing Christmas carols. The atmosphere was so full of warmth and joy — seeing the smiles on the guests’ faces reminded me of the true meaning of community and kindness. It was one of those rare days that leave you with a quiet, lasting happiness.
Leaving ISH was bittersweet. It had been my safe, protective bubble — a place where I felt understood, supported, and inspired. Walking away from that comfort felt scary because it meant stepping fully into adult life with new responsibilities. But I also realised that ISH had prepared me for exactly that moment.
The experiences, friendships, and sense of belonging I found there gave me the confidence to navigate life after graduation.
When I came back to visit ISH after graduating, it felt like coming home. There was a wave of nostalgia, but also a sense of calm. Without the pressures of university, I could simply enjoy being back in that beautiful, vibrant environment that had once been such a big part of my life. ISH will always hold a special place in my heart — it’s where I grew, learned, and built memories that will stay with me forever.