I’m from Iragberi, Osun State in Nigeria and came to the UK to study a Master’s in law.
Kent was one of the UK universities on my list. When I discovered that it offered a January start option and scholarships for international students, I made the decision to apply; I’m really glad I did!
I’m enjoying the course and the experience, discovering other cultures and sharing my own.
One crucial piece of advice I’d give you is to apply for your visa as early as you possibly can. I didn’t get my visa until after the first term at Kent had started, I booked the next available flight to the UK and then had to catch up when I arrived. I remember attending my first class which went really well, but getting there was a whole lot more stressful than it needed to be. Learn from my mistake!
I believe that in life you have to keep moving forward, you can’t just wait for something to happen. I hope sharing my experiences of life at Kent, from what it’s like to study here to making friends and dealing with homesickness, will help you to see that studying here is a great move.
I brought just one pair of sneakers, I’d definitely recommend bringing more! Bring warm clothes but also your favourite items. I also brought lots of photos.
The environment is just beautiful! I spend a lot of time studying in the library. There are quite a few places to eat or get coffee on campus; I like K-Bar and A Taste of Thailand.
I’m a Christian and it was very important for me to find a church where I’d feel comfortable. I attend the Emmanuel Church near where I live; it’s been very nice.
When I first got here, I spent a lot of time walking around Canterbury, just taking in the beauty. I’m adjusting to being in a new place, it helps that the people are engaging and friendly.
My body is picky when it comes to food, so I brought spices, dried food, yam flour, poundo yam flour and semovita (all hard to get here). That way I can cook 'Nigerian meals' in Canterbury.
My biggest mistake was not opting for university accommodation, so I’d say just go for uni accommodation, don't stress yourself!
If I get homesick, I’ll call home (I got a SIM at the airport!), go for a walk, or just tell myself to snap out of it. You’re here for such a short time, you have to try and enjoy it. And I am.
My course is very international, with people from Nigeria, Kenya and Thailand. I love them! I’ve made lots of friends, we study together before classes, preparing questions for our seminars.
Check out the website for international students, lots of advice on scholarships, study and life in general!
Visit the Nigeria page to see what qualifications you need for your course.
It’s a whole new way of learning. You can get advice from our Skills for Academic Success team.
Feeling settled and happy will help you to excel in your studies. Our student support services are here to help with advice and initiatives such as the community garden.
