Islamabad Is Not Just a City, It’s a Place to Fulfil Your Dreams

My name is Zain, and this is my first week in Islamabad. I recently moved here for university, and right now I’m exploring the city’s vibe. Coming from a smaller city, the experience feels completely different and refreshing.

Journey to Islamabad

I completed my intermediate in 2024 and dreamed of going abroad for higher education. Unfortunately, due to finances and my percentage, I couldn’t make it, and one year went to waste. But I didn’t give up. I started looking for universities in Pakistan, especially those offering International Relations because I have a strong interest in international politics.

During my search, I came across Quaid-i-Azam University, which has one of the oldest and most prestigious IR programs in the country. I also looked into National Defence University (NDU), which is more focused within the country, and National University of Modern Languages (NUML). Since I missed the application deadline for Quaid-i-Azam University, I applied to NDU and NUML. After travelling back and forth from Sialkot to Islamabad for tests and interviews, I was lucky enough to get admission offers from both universities.

It was a tough choice. NDU offered me Government and Public Policy (GPP), while NUML offered me IR, the subject I truly wanted. Since NDU refused my request to change departments, I finally chose NUML. Looking back, I feel happy about this decision.

Finding a Place to Stay

Since NUML offers hostel facilities only after four semesters, I had to find accommodation myself. I visited several hostels around the twin cities, especially on IJP Road and in I-8 and I-9. Finally, I chose a hostel in I-8/4 near I-8 Markaz, and I can say it was the best decision. The hostel provides everything I need, and the view from my room makes it even better.

First Impressions of the Capital

So far, my first week has been amazing. Islamabad is truly a lush green city, and exploring it has become my new hobby. I have already visited Faisal Mosque and the Red Zone, and I’m really impressed by the cleanliness here compared to my city.

Life in Islamabad feels peaceful and calm. The city is well-planned, with organized sectors, wide roads, and beautiful weather. I also tried some food chains, like Crumble, which is quite popular among Gen Z. Their cookies taste amazing, but as someone who is health-conscious, I found them too sweet—one cookie is enough to cover your sugar intake for a week.

Student Life in Islamabad

Islamabad is truly a city for students who want to level up in life, move out of their hometowns, and experience different cultures, people, and cuisines. At NUML, I don’t just see it as a place to earn a degree, but also as a place to create memories and build friendships. My classmates are from different provinces like Sindh, and as a Punjabi, I’m learning a lot from their experiences and perspectives.

Challenges I Faced

Of course, moving to a new city comes with challenges. The cost of living here is higher than in my hometown, but it’s manageable, especially if you take up part-time work. Adjusting to new routes, food, and people was also a task, but surprisingly, I adapted to these changes within the first week.

Conclusion

For me, Islamabad feels like the perfect blend of education, culture, and nature. This first week was just a glimpse, but I know this city has many more stories waiting for me. To any student who wants to grow, explore, and push beyond their limits, I would highly recommend moving to Islamabad.