Guide for students from Ghana

Guide for students from Ghana

Hi, I’m Felix

I was so excited to come to Kent from Ghana. I had been to boarding school, so I had lived away from home before, but going to a new country is more of a challenge; I prayed and that helped me. I got quite emotional leaving my parents, it makes you realise that you’re an adult now.

Before you leave Ghana, if you can, try and meet other people who are also planning to study at Kent, that way you’ll know some people even before you arrive on campus. But don’t worry if you can’t – I’ve found it easy to build a network of friends both from Ghana and from lots of other countries .

I’m Vice-President of the Ghana Society and would love to welcome you to the Society when you arrive. We run lots of events and it’s a great place to meet other Ghanaians.

I hope sharing my experiences of life at Kent, from what to bring from home to living in uni accommodation and from dealing with homesickness to making friends, will answer some of your questions.

My tips.

What to pack.

Bring along the hobbies, interests and pastimes you want to develop. I left my guitar and I regret it everyday! Kent's the right place for all kinds of personal growth.

Getting places.

Canterbury's a big campus! So if you don’t know where you’re going, ask for help. Don’t worry if you’re a bit late, your module convenor will understand. You’ll soon learn where everything is.

Home from home.

I live on campus, everyone is friendly. Bring cards or a board game and people are happy to join in. And look out for ResLife events – I played five-a-side football and nerf wars!

Faith on campus.

There are lots of church groups on campus; you’ll find the right place for you. I’d say, if you’re a Christian, look within yourself, pray and you’ll discover where you belong.

Welcome Week.

If, like I was, you’re late for Welcome Week, don’t worry – it’s more like Welcome Month! I’d recommend going to taster sessions for societies and sports clubs, a great way to meet people.

Homesick – just for food!

Luckily, there’s an African store in Canterbury where you can get the ingredients you need. I’ve made groundnut soup, jollof and waakye – and am happy with the results!

The world comes to Kent!

Uni is a good time to get a diverse social circle, which opens doors for you later. I’ve got friends from Africa, Asia, America and Europe, which really adds to the experience.

Making memories.

I loved my first volleyball game; I’m going to try out for the team next year. Cooking with my Ghanaian friends is always fun. Absolute highlight so far? My delicious groundnut soup!