Melissa Ngige

Why did you choose Kent?

I went to a British system school in Kenya and lots of students from there come to Kent. I really liked the sound of the course and that’s how I found myself here.

What was it about the course that attracted you?

I wanted to do a course that was people oriented because in the future, I’d like to go into either advertising or human resources or PR. I thought that this course would help me to get a job in those areas later on. I wanted to develop a good understanding of why people behave in certain ways.

How did you feel when you arrived?

It was a bit of a culture shock,but not too bad. We do have social media at home so we  keep up. Things are more liberal here and free and I really like that. I hadn’t visited Kent beforehand so arriving here by myself was scary. But there are friends from my high school here, so it was easy to settle in. People are very friendly and I didn’t find it hard to make friends.

Did you live on campus for your first year?

Yes, I lived in Eliot, it’s central, near the library and my classes. Living on campus is a great way to meet lots of different people. There were people studying law, sociology and anthropology. I really liked it. I think Kent is quite compact and easy to get around. I live off campus now, near the city centre; Canterbury is really beautiful.

How is the course going?

It’s going pretty well. I struggled a bit in first year, it’s quite a jump from A levels but I went to the Student Learning Advisory Service and they were very helpful. I was quite shy in my first year, but now I find it easier to talk to my lecturers and ask for their help when I need it. I am really enjoying the Cultural Studies side of the course.

What do you think of the lecturers?

They are supportive. They all have office hours when you can go and see them and I find I am taking advantage of those more and more. This year one of our lecturers gave us an exemplar piece of writing which was very helpful, you know what’s expected then.

Have you had a favourite module?

Generally, I am enjoying the modules in my second year; they’re very intriguing. I’m taking a module on race and racism, which is very interactive. We’re encouraged to speak in class and give our own opinions. It’s very interesting.

What about your fellow students?

I have a very good group of friends and classmates as well. Sometimes we work together on presentations, it’s great when everyone works hard and you get the work done in plenty of time, I really like that. We also present on our own which can be fun. I enjoy working independently and as part of a team.

Have you joined any societies?

I have. I’m vice president of the East African Society and a member of the Kent Gospel Choir. I’m also a peer mentor, a buddy and a student ambassador. I keep busy. The East African Society organises lots of events. We put on a fashion show, and have parties and barbecues. It’s nice because it’s like a home away from home. You can easily relate to these people and they become like your family, so you don’t miss home too much. It’s really nice. I’m glad there’s an East African society.

Has the course confirmed your plans for the future?

I think so. I want to go into human resources, possibly in the hospitality area. After I graduate I think I’ll stay in Europe and possibly do a Master’s in Switzerland.

What advice would you give to someone who’s coming to Kent?

Remember, university is new to everyone so it’s easy to make friends. And keep in touch with your family regularly, it’s so easy now with Skype and FaceTime.