The University of Southampton
International Voices

Come hungry and don’t forget your wellies! An East African student’s guide to studying at Southampton

Our ‘Insider’s Guide’ webinar series offers a unique perspective on life at Southampton by the people who know best – our students!

Last week’s webinar was hosted by Kenyan LLM student Kendi, who talked about everything from homesickness and haircuts to part time jobs and, of course, the great British weather.

In case you missed it, here are Kendi’s top tips for surviving your first year in Southampton and making the most of your university experience:

Don’t forget your wellies

The British weather is wonderfully unreliable but as long as you come prepared, it can be a really refreshing break from the heat of home.  Pack warm clothes and DEFINITELY don’t forget your wellingtons and umbrella!

Come hungry!

Classic roast dinners, English breakfasts and lots of cups of tea are the perfect comfort food when you are studying.   But don’t expect to lose weight – British food is delicious but filing and you may need a lie down when you finish.  And if you ever need a break, you can always buy your own ingredients at our university market every Monday, which sells everything from bananas to bread rolls.

Weekends are made for fun (and travel)

Your weekdays may be filled with study, but your weekends should be for exploring!  Southampton has a whole host of historic and natural sights to see as well as a premier league football team and some of the best shopping in the region.  Don’t stop there though – Southampton is only an hour away from London and Heathrow, so the world really is your oyster!

Create a home away from home

Living in a new country can be tough and even the best of us can feel homesick from time to time.  Luckily, we have everything you need to make yourself a home away from home right here in Southampton.  You’ll find African hairdressers, shops and restaurants as well as a warm welcome from our small but vibrant East African community, which will hopefully make the distance feel just a little less far.

Join a society (or 12)

One of the best things about studying in the UK (aside from actually studying) is the huge range of societies you can get involved in.  There are more than 300 at Southampton, covering every single hobby and sport you can think of and even more that you can’t.  Oh, and make sure you join the East African Society – with its Thrills and Chills nights and legendary BBQs, you will feel right at home!

And finally, enjoy it!

The UK is one of the best places in the world to live and study and you will make friends and memories here that will stay with you forever.    So what are you waiting for?!

If you would like register for our next Insider’s Guide webinar, please click here

 
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