I'm not performing a party trick. [ He objects, reproachful, but there's some solace in being correct ]
It is simplicity itself. Studying abroad is not an easy endeavor without some stability of funds. You're very young, so you've not had an income to fund yourself. Even if you'd been had on a scholarship, you had the background to be impressive. Unfortunately, someone who is well-educated often suggests someone who is well to do, for a number of reasons. There were no factors to deny such a line of logic. As to the traveling... Well, you've got stains on your clothing still. None of them are from England.
Perhaps once you've settled in, you might be interested in seeing the facility's laboratory. Some of the equipment is beyond me, and if you're from the past then it's leagues above you, I'm sure. [ Not being diminutive. Technology changed quite a lot in his time being alive. ]