An Indian graduate who studied and worked in Manchester has shared an emotional post on Reddit, expressing deep sadness after having to move back to India when a job offer in the UK fell through.
The individual, who lived in the UK for four years, wrote about how life abroad had brought stability, happiness, and balance — something they fear they’ve now lost.
‘It really felt like my world came crashing down’
“I completed my undergrad in Manchester, lived there for 4 years and worked at a big company. Was about to go back but they pulled out their offer because the company is not doing well,” the Reddit user wrote.
The post described the sense of loss and shock that followed the company’s sudden withdrawal. “It really felt like my world came crashing down when I got a call saying they can’t do anything. I also hadn’t been applying to anywhere else because I was sure I was going to go back to work there,” they added.
The user shared that they have now moved back in with their parents in India, a transition that has felt overwhelming and disheartening. “I loved my life in the UK. I had really good friendships, an amazing relationship and a healthy balance taking care of myself,” the post continued.
‘I feel like I’ve lost everything’
Back in India, the Reddit user said they are struggling to adjust to the change in lifestyle and loss of independence. “Now I’ve moved back with my parents and feel like I’ve lost everything. My independence and hardwork was for nothing,” they wrote.
Although acknowledging the benefits of being with family and avoiding visa or rent issues, the user said it is not the life they want. “Yes I know I have the benefits of not having to worry about rent/ sponsorship etc here but it’s not what I want for myself,” they said.
The post also expressed concern about India’s work culture and job prospects. “From what I know there is 0 work life balance in India and grads get paid shit. On top of that the quality of life is not good compared to the UK,” the user noted.
‘I miss the clean air, nature, independence… I feel like giving up’
Adding to the emotional toll, the user revealed that their relationship also ended after returning home. “I don’t know when I’ll see my friends next and my boyfriend broke up with me because I don’t know if I’ll ever return,” the post read.
The user said they are trying to find a job in Dubai or a major Indian city but are struggling to stay positive. “I’m trying to get a job in Dubai or an urban city in India but I know things won’t be the same as it was,” they wrote.
The Redditor ended the post with a plea for comfort and reassurance. “I need some comfort/ reassurance that things will get better and I’ll be able to emigrate out of here. I miss the clean air, nature, independence, third spaces and work life balance I had there. I don’t think I’ll get that here. I feel like giving up,” they concluded.