On 1 May 1707, the Kingdom of Great Britain was created by the political union of the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Scotland and then ratified by both the Parliament of England and Parliament of Scotland each passing an Act of Union in 1707. The Kingdom of Ireland merged with the Kingdom of Great Britain to form the United Kingdom with the passing of the Act of Union 1800.

After the victory in World War II, the UK was among the powers to help plan the postwar world. World War II left the United Kingdom financially damaged. The immediate post-war years saw the establishment of the Welfare State, including among the world's first and most comprehensive public health services, while the demands of a recovering economy brought people from all over the Commonwealth to create a multiethnic Britain.

The United Kingdom was one of the 12 founding members of the European Union at its launch in 1992. Prior to that, it had been a member of the EU's forerunner, the European Economic Community (EEC), from 1973.

The Weather
The weather in UK can be unpredictable and changes frequently. Differences between the seasons are not as extreme as in India. Autumn and Summer are pleasant but winters are extreme.

Driving in UK
To drive a car in UK, you may normally use your valid license from home, or an International Driving Permit for the first year you are in the UK only. You must have been driving for at least one year. After one year, most students should obtain a UK driving license. You may have to take a driving test, depending on which country you are from. Driving without a license is a serious offence in the UK and the rules are complicated so if you are thinking of driving, take the necessary measures.

Social Behaviour
Smoking is banned in enclosed public places and on public transport in the UK. All college sites at the University are non-smoking.

Emergencies
If you are in an emergency situation in the UK, you should dial 999 for an ambulance, the police or the fire brigade. The call is free, even from a mobile without credit. If you smell gas in or around your house, it is important that you call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111999.

Culture Shock
Culture shock is a term used to describe the anxiety and feelings of surprise, disorientation, confusion felt when people first arrive in a foreign country. Many international students feel it in their first few weeks and months in the UK. You might also feel home sick. Some examples where you might notice differences:

• The food
• Fashion
• The pace of life
• The weather
• Customs and habits