From Nigeria to Sheffield: Ikendai Aguma’s Journey
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Moving from Nigeria to the UK has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It was a mix of excitement and challenges, filled with new ways of living and countless lessons. Reflecting on my journey, I realise how much I’ve grown by adapting to life in this city.
One of the first cultural differences I noticed was in the classroom.
Back in Nigeria, we addressed our lecturers as “Sir,” “Madam,” “Mister,” or “Miss” which is a formal style of interaction. In the University of Sheffield, I was surprised to find that lecturers prefer to be addressed by their first names.
At first, this felt unusual but I came to appreciate the approachable environment it created. Another difference was the level of autonomy expected of students. In Nigeria, we always asked permission to leave class for even minor things like using the bathroom.
Here, students are trusted to manage their time responsibly without needing approval.
While adjusting to classroom culture took some time, adapting to the weather was even more challenging. Coming from Nigeria’s warm, sunny climate to Sheffield’s chilly winters was a shock to my system.
However, the city’s excellent heating systems made the cold manageable and I quickly learned to appreciate the beauty of snowy days.
In terms of food, Sheffield’s diverse community means you can find almost any cuisine, including Nigerian food. Whether it’s a hearty plate of jollof rice or beef stew or puff-puff, these familiar tastes have been a comforting reminder of home.
Support for International Students
One of the most remarkable things about Sheffield is the incredible support available to international students. The Global Campus Ambassadors were especially helpful during my first year. They provided a thorough orientation, showed us around key places like the Students’ Union, and shared practical advice on living affordably in the city.
After my first year, I also became a member of the Global Campus ambassador team, and this provided me with the opportunity to speak to new students and provide any guidance or assistance to the students at the University when needed.
Joining societies also played a big part in helping me to settle in. I became a member of the Nigerian Society and BAME Engineers, which connected me with people who shared my background and interests. Sheffield has a society for almost every nationality and hobby, making it easy to find a community where you belong.
Beyond academics, I was attracted to Sheffield’s calm and peaceful atmosphere. Unlike the hustle and bustle of cities like London, Sheffield offers a serene environment that fosters focus and productivity.
The campus is spread across the city, allowing students to explore and engage with the community while studying.
Embracing Opportunities
My time in Sheffield has been incredibly rewarding, thanks to the opportunities I’ve embraced. I’ve taken on roles such as Global Campus Ambassador, Diversity and Inclusion Officer, and International Student Ambassador. These positions have helped me to develop new skills, build my network and engage with people from diverse backgrounds.
In addition to these roles, I’ve been active in extracurricular activities, from playing tennis to serving as the first Black Students’ Union Council Chair. These experiences have made my life better.
Adapting to life in Sheffield has been an incredible journey of growth, opportunity and discovery. From navigating cultural shifts to finding comfort in a supportive community, I’ve been able to thrive both academically and personally. Sheffield, with its welcoming student community and vibrant city life, has truly become my home away from home.
For more information on the University of Sheffield, see here.