For Chevening scholars, it can take time to adjust to the UK education system. Lorrencia, from Ghana, shares her tips for fellow scholars.
As someone who studied in Ghana their entire life, when I arrived in the UK I thought ‘how am I going to adapt to this new education system?’.
To help others, I’m sharing three things that helped me adjust to UK academic life as a Chevening scholar!
My parents never went to school but they both strongly understood the value of education. I remember my father, a watchman, did learn how to write his name and would proudly beam when he got it right. By the time I had started my first degree in Ghana, I was already a mum to a toddler with another on the way, completing my degree with my little ones by my side.
I’m proud to now be studying a masters at Newcastle University on a Chevening Scholarship!
From my induction to the campus tour and very first lecture, I gradually found myself settling into the programme, despite initially struggling to understand the lecture style.
In the UK, every student is assigned a personal tutor, someone that you can go to for academic or pastoral support. Accessing my lecturers was straightforward, and their guidance in selecting the appropriate modules proved invaluable in helping me navigate my academic journey with confidence.
It’s also okay to admit when you don’t know something! Only by asking questions are you able to learn and grow.
The resources in your school are there to help you excel.
The UK academic system promotes independent learning, teaching you how to manage your workload and build confidence in forming your own viewpoints. University resources are there to support you in doing this. For example, I access lecture slides in advance through the student portal.
The facilities at Newcastle University have also helped me settle in. The cosy reading rooms, stocked libraries, and green spaces on campus makes it convenient to find a comfortable spot to study, relax between lectures, and connect with fellow students.
As a Chevening scholar, you are far away from home. The last thing you want to do is to be in a shell of your own and miss out on life-long connections.
Taking on the roles of Student Representative and EDI Representative for my cohort has been a great experience. These positions have allowed me to share insights, advocate for my peers, and actively contribute to creating a more inclusive, supportive student community.
Adjusting to student life in another country is a process and can take time. Remember your dreams and let them serve as the springboard for your future success, even in the face of challenges.
Lorrencia is a Chevening Social Media Ambassador, you can follow her Chevening journey!
Studying in the UK on a Chevening Scholarship is more than a world-class academic experience. It's about joining a global community committed to creating a better future. For inspiration, read Mariwan's story and discover how Chevening opens doors to new and unique opportunities.
Chevening proudly supports scholars from all backgrounds and identities. Sarah, a Chevening scholar studying at the University of Sussex, shares her story of overcoming adversity and using education as a tool to advance transgender rights and inclusion in Thailand and beyond.
We hear from volunteering organisations about the positive impact Cheveners had had in communities and charities across the UK during their scholarship year.