International student Ndubuisi shares with us why he decided to leave Nigeria to come study Adult Nursing at RGU, and his experience moving abroad and discovering a new culture.
What other way can I express my profound ecstasy of a dream come true than by sharing this amazing journey to the beautiful country of Scotland. I must say it has indeed been a wild roller-coaster of unusual feelings, emotions, fortunes, and a diverse array of events up until this moment. Come with me!
My path to Adult Nursing
First off, as an undergraduate student back in my home country, Nigeria, I had always nursed this unwavering idea of studying in a renowned university with worldwide reputation. This would be a place where I can confidently build and improve myself in different facets of life ranging from career, personal development, education, to health, relationships, and spirituality.
After completing my first degree as a Dental Technologist, I never had this surge of complete satisfaction that comes with finally having a well-defined career path. A lot of factors played significant roles in my decision towards that profession, but it never came from a place of passion. I thereafter had to take out time to brood over a wide spectrum of courses that matched my dream. That’s how I came about the need to pursue a second degree in Adult Nursing.
Choosing RGU
After series of deep research, asking thoughtful questions, and getting advice from friends and well-meaning people, my interest was piqued by RGU for so many reasons. For example, it provides high-quality vocational education and relevant curriculum which provide learners with the skills they require to thrive throughout their career. As a result, the University has a reputation for producing graduates that are highly sought after by employers.
RGU has achieved global recognition for the employability of its graduates and offers start-up opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship to students, staff, and alumni.
Also, going through my course’s modules endeared me even more to choosing RGU because it had a practical approach to learning which I was looking for.
My application process
One would think that the process of applying to study in the UK would be a tedious long ride, but far from it. RGU made the whole process easy through the ever-willing agents that are ready to guide you through the entire process of getting your admission and VISA ready.
The agent I got connected with never got tired of answering the box of questions that I came with as a prospective student. He showed concern and assisted me however he could, thereby instilling in me the feeling of being part of the family, to ensure I had a smooth sailing experience.
RGU also has a user-friendly website with comprehensive information. It features a clean layout that makes navigation effortless. The website is rich with resources, including detailed course descriptions, school pages, and campus news, ensuring that visitors can easily find everything they need.
My journey to Scotland
On the beautiful morning of 12th August 2023, I was accompanied by my lovely sisters to the airport. It was quite an emotional moment as I was going to be away from home.
I was already beginning to miss them dearly. We chatted at length, talked about random things, and took lots of pictures. When it was time to board the flight, they bade me goodbye, and that was when the reality of leaving them struck me hard. But I had to go.
I arrived at Addis Ababa International Airport, Ethiopia. I stayed there for a few hours before I took off again to London. There was a long wait after that as I arrived in London around 7am while my next flight was around 5pm. But it was my first time travelling to London so, I was excited and busy looking around.
When it was time, I boarded another flight to Edinburgh. I immediately noticed the climate change. I went to the train station first, but finally settled on a bus to Aberdeen as it was cheaper. I got to Aberdeen at around 1am and lodged in a hotel. Then in the morning, I decided to take a walk to RGU. It was such an exhilarating moment.
My unique experience and challenges as an international student
One major thing I enjoy about living in Scotland is the diversity. I like socialising, making friends, and trying out new things. I’ve come to meet a lot of people from different ethnicities, different tribes, and countries. I have been challenged to learn their culture and traditions.
Interestingly, I have also tried new dishes like Haggis, Scottish Porridge, and Cranachan. Trust me, it was good. When I first came to Aberdeen, I had this challenge of getting to know locations. Many times, I passed my residence while walking home, not knowing I had passed it for the sheer fact that most of the buildings and structures have a striking resemblance.
But with time, I got a lot of things sorted out. I’ve also been able to overcome the communication barrier with English being spoken differently here in Scotland than back home in Nigeria.
Advice to prospective students
My advice to prospective students who are still contemplating coming to the UK to study is that they should go ahead and take the bold step.
The education system in the UK is top notch. I love it so much, and there are no regrets whatsoever. There are diverse opportunities here for you to reach your milestones. I will be waiting for you all!
Ndubuisi Igwenagu
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