Kenyan student stories

From Kenya to Kent – we did it!

Read our stories to get the inside track of life at Kent.

Hi, I’m Sakina

I was very excited by the prospect of studying at Kent and living independently sounded fun. Then, as the date to leave got closer, the nerves kicked in. But actually it all went very smoothly, whenever I had an issue I just contacted the uni and they responded quickly to reassure me.

If you’re like me, you’ll wonder how you can fit all you need into one suitcase! I came across an airline called Kenya Airways who run Kool Flyers, which gives students extra luggage. If you’re planning to live in uni accommodation, you don’t need to bring any extra items, everything you need will be provided or you can buy it in Canterbury.

When I arrived at Kent, I was pleased to see that it looked just as it does on the website! Everyone was very helpful and friendly. I attended so many events in Welcome Week – movie nights, quiz nights and a student event specifically for international students. I joined the East African Student Society, a crochet society, the Indian Society and then the Islamic Society.

I lived on campus in Turing, I got lucky with my flatmates, we respected each other and had fun. Without blowing my own trumpet, I’m a pretty good cook and I enjoy it, so cooking for myself was no problem for me.

I enjoy going to the city centre because I love shopping! There are also lots of cute cafés and Westgate Gardens is a lovely place to relax.

I would recommend coming to Kent, I’m enjoying my time here. You do have to think about the differences between home and Kent, including cultural and lifestyle changes but one thing I’ve realised is that the weather in Canterbury is not as harsh as in other places in the UK, so that’s definitely manageable!

Hi, I’m Truphosah

When the time came to leave my home and family in Kenya to study at Kent, there were definitely nerves and some fear but now, a year later, I couldn’t be happier with my decision. To help you settle in, do some research, learn about the UK’s history and about everyday life here.

My academic journey in Cognitive Neuropsychology has been so interesting and productive, characterized by intriguing and interactive lessons. One-on-one consultation sessions with my professors gave me feedback that triggered my zeal to shape, replenish, and enrich my career. Kent thrives on evidence-based research using the most recent scientific technologies for lab tests. One thing I have discovered is that here people don't really like fancy titles, they don’t want to be called Professor or Doctor, they’re happy if you just use their name – I found that tricky at first!    

When I saw the campus for the first time, it exceeded my expectations – such a beautiful environment. People at Kent are friendly, you’ll make friends on your course, where you live, by joining societies. So, when it’s just you and your books, you don’t feel alone because you know when you need a break that community is there for you.

I use a wheelchair, and I’d like to say to anyone else in Kenya who has a disability don’t worry, I’ve been able to travel all the way here and I'm enjoying my life at Kent. I have the support I need and am always included without having to ask to be included. 

Kent is a university that gives you the freedom to be who you are, while respecting other people’s choices, which creates a welcoming community. You’re encouraged to be independent, but the uni is also there to support you when you need it.

I’d definitely recommend Kent. I’ve enjoyed studying here so much I’m hoping to come back to do my PhD!