Kenyans Studying in Canada Share Canadian Varsity Experience

Students studying abroad have an edge, thanks to the exposure and world-class facilities. The Standard's Hellen Miseda was in Canada and brings the experience of three international students.

Musa Chunge, University of Waterloo: Civil Engineering

Tell us a little about yourself…

I lived in Nairobi and spent 13 years at Saint Mary’s School in Lavington.

Why did you decide to study abroad?

Throughout secondary school, I hoped to study abroad because I wanted the international exposure. I applied to Canada, Australia and the US in my final year at St Mary’s and the University of Waterloo’s offer came first. I came in August 2008.

Tell us your experience from the time you landed…

I was lucky to arrive in summer. I was received by a relative, which made my transition easier. I moved to residence (hostel) a few days later and met my roommate, Eduardo, who was also an international student from Mexico. We shared many good laughs as we compared our cultures. I made some of my best friends in residence. Winter has been a good experience as well and it can even be fun if you dress appropriately.  In terms of culture, we share the same desires, needs, hopes and dreams. In that sense, not much has been surprising. One notable difference is that few people associate with Christianity (or any faith system). Being a Christian, I had to purpose to pursue my faith. Nobody was going to wake me up for church on Sunday. I miss church.

What makes your campus stand out?

The engineering department has programme that enables students to apply to full-time jobs in their professional fields at the end of First Year, The jobs last four months (co-op terms) and are alternated with school semesters. I did not have a clear understanding of this system at first, but I am now heading into my sixth position where I will be working in a structural engineering office. By the end of my programme, I will have gathered two years of relevant experience. During the internships, I am paid and this has reduced the financial burden on my parents.

What would you tell students back home who would like to study abroad?

Go for it. Apply for scholarships and come ready to meet new people and to experience different cultures. Things will not always go smoothly. You might get homesick, stressed, embarrassed but it is worth it.

How did you learn about this university?

When I decided to apply to Canadian universities, I typed “Best engineering institution in Canada” in the Google search bar and guess what popped out? University of Waterloo. I applied and was accepted.

Other than academics, what’s interesting in campus?

There are numerous clubs that organise events, concerts and other interesting events. There is always something to do. Once you have friends, everything you do with them becomes fun.

How do you handle peer pressure in campus?

I focus on what brought me here. My parents have worked hard to get me this far and I cannot take that for granted.

Do you plan to go back home or settle in Canada?

One of the reasons I chose Civil Engineering over newer professions like Nanotechnology was to have the option to come back home. I plan to pursue a Masters degree here, but I miss my family and friends.

Omar Mwangari, University Of British Columbia-Okanagan: Bachelor of Arts In Psychology

Tell us a little about yourself…

I was born and raised in Mombasa. A year after finishing my Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education, I got a scholarship to undertake the International Baccalaureate programme at the Aga Khan Academy, Mombasa. I was among two students from the school to win the prestigious International Student Humanitarian Award from the University of British Columbia. I had other offers from different universities, but here I am!

Tell us your experience so far…

Many international students prepare for the culture shock, but it still finds a way of creeping into our lives. I had to adjust to the winter. Furthermore, I had to accept that ugali and sukuma wiki were no more. I was open to change. That said, I want to remain Kenyan unlike many Africans who ‘speak through there noses’ after a few years abroad.

What makes your campus stand out?

It is smaller compared to the main campus — Vancouver. Therefore, most of us know each other. We also have world-class facilities and renowned professors. There is a sense of belonging at the university and our motto is tuum est, which means ‘It’s yours!’ — I own this campus!

What would you tell Kenyans intending to study abroad?

Know what you want from a university. Find a university that meets your needs.

How did you learn about this university?

Some recruiters from this university and other universities in the world came to our school to talk about their respective universities.

Other than the academics, what’s fun in campus?

We have different clubs that fit every student’s needs. An example is the International Students Club, which is run by international students. It hosts events such as the snowboarding trips to Big White (British Columbia’s second largest ski resort) and potluck dinners on and off campus.

How do you handle peer pressure?

It all comes down to priorities. My scholarship keeps me in check. An individual’s character matters.

Do you plan to go back home?

Oh yes! It would be great to put my education and skills to better use.

Rita Kankunda, Saint Mary’s University (SMU), Halifax: Bachelor of Commerce

Tell us a little about yourself…

I am from Uganda. I went to Greenhill Academy then Maryhill High School for my O’level. I was at Naalya SS Namugongo for A’level.

Why did you decide to study abroad?

My dad wanted me to study abroad though I did not mind going to Makerere University. After a little research, we chose Saint Mary’s University in Canada because of its versatile programme.

Tell us your experience so far…

I arrived in winter, but was lucky to meet fellow Ugandans who were warm and welcoming. There was no culture shock because Canadians are friendly and the place is cosmopolitan.

What makes your campus stand out? 

The use of blackboard and SMUport. Blackboard is a learning system that enables students access lecture notes, quizzes and marks at their convenience. It is a sort of student account that has student records. One can go through their day’s lectures later in the night when all classes and rooms are locked. SMUport, which is more diverse, enables you register for courses and book a room online.

Any message for Kenyan students who would like to study abroad?

You need to have good grades and be mentally prepared for it because the freedom can be a little overwhelming at times.

How did you learn about this university?

My uncle’s daughter studied here, so she told me about the campus. For the application, I went through an agent who handled the process very well.

Other than the academics, what’s hot in campus?

Events like African Night and International Night are some of the dates students look forward to because they showcase our home countries. We dress in traditional outfits and cook traditional food.

How do you handle peer pressure?

It boils down to one’s upbringing. My father is strict. The university facilitates social events where people openly talk about drugs and sex, and its dangers.

Do you plan to go back home?

Yes, but after working for a while.

Source: The Standard