I moved to the UK over eight years ago to go to University. I was 18 and it was the first time I was living away from home. For the first two months, I couldn't understand a word (even though I had thought my English was fluent before I arrived). But slowly, not through any dramatic breakthrough but small, everyday steps, I learned how to be on my own, started getting to know the local culture, found new favourite places and made friends. Just as slowly, the UK begun to feel like home - and right now it's much more so than the country where I grew up.

I don't know if I will stay here for the rest of my life. But even if one day I decide to leave, the UK will always be where I became the adult I am today. It will be a part of me because it accepted and welcomed me when I was alone, unsure and needed a home.

-Karolina, London