Hello everyone, my name is Risper Okello, currently in my final year of my undergraduate studies in BSc Economics and Finance. Moving to a new country as a student is never easy, but as an African student, the experience can feel especially overwhelming. I moved from Kenya for the very first time to study in the UK, and starting a completely new chapter of life can feel overpowering at times. You quickly realise just how different your culture is from the environment you are stepping into. It becomes very easy to feel out of place. In the process of trying to adapt, there is always the risk of losing parts of your identity, something that is deeply important to hold onto.
For me, coming to the University of Surrey has been a journey of both adjustment and self-discovery. One of the things I have appreciated most is just how diverse and welcoming the community is. From the university itself to the Students’ Union, there is a genuine effort to make people from all backgrounds feel included and seen. That kind of environment makes a huge difference when you are far from home.
My experience has been especially meaningful because of the people I have met along the way. I have been fortunate to connect with others from my own culture (as an East African), who have truly become my chosen family here. At the same time, I have built friendships with people from completely different backgrounds, and through shared experiences, we have been able to learn from one another. It has created a sense of belonging that goes beyond cultural boundaries.
One of my proudest achievements during my time at university has been founding the East and Southern African Society. Creating that space allowed students from similar backgrounds to come together, support one another, and celebrate our shared identity. At the same time, it opened up an opportunity for us to share our culture with the wider Surrey community. It became a space of exchange – where others could learn about us as much as we learned from them.
Events like One World Week have also played a big role in shaping my experience. Seeing students showcase their cultures through food, music, and dance is a powerful reminder of how diverse and vibrant the university community is. It is moments like these that make you feel proud of where you come from while also appreciating the richness of others’ cultures.
Another aspect of studying in the UK that I have really valued is the opportunity to explore beyond campus. Being here has allowed me to travel across different parts of the country –from England to Scotland and Wales – and experience new environments, cultures, and histories. That exposure has been incredibly enriching. It has broadened my perspective and allowed me to see the world in ways I may not have otherwise experienced. For many international students, especially those coming from far away, that ability to explore and learn beyond the classroom is something truly special.
At the same time, this journey has not been without its challenges. One of the biggest has been making sure that I do not lose sight of who I am. When you are constantly adapting to a new culture, it can sometimes feel like you are being pulled in different directions. But I have learned that your culture is not something to put aside, it is a strength, a foundation, and a key part of your identity.
Having a strong support system has made all the difference. Whether it is through friendships, society events, or even hosting small dinners where we share food and speak our home languages, those moments of familiarity help ease the feeling of being far from home. They remind you that even in a new place, you can still create a sense of belonging.
My advice to new students would be “put yourself out there”. Attend events, join societies, and be open to meeting new people. That is often how you find your community. At the same time, remember that your community does not have to look like you or share your exact background. What matters most is finding people who support you, understand you, and make you feel at home.
