Young Kenyan students planning to study abroad have received valuable advice to help ease their transition to life overseas. With international education regarded as a top investment for the future, particularly for young Africans, these tips from St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine in Grenada are essential for navigating this new chapter:

Maintain Connections: Staying in touch with family, friends, and former classmates is crucial. Setting up WhatsApp groups can help maintain social bonds. Journaling can also help students process emotions and stay connected to themselves.

Get Organized: Planning ahead and setting up a schedule for the first week on campus can help students manage new responsibilities and ensure a balanced routine.

Avoid Comparisons: It’s easy to compare oneself to others who seem to adapt quickly, but this can damage self-confidence. Focusing on personal progress and setting individual goals is essential.

Connect with Future Classmates: Engaging with peers attending the same university can create a sense of belonging and provide support.

Learn Relaxation Techniques: Managing stress is key. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing can help students stay calm and focused.

Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that facing challenges and feeling homesick is normal. Having realistic expectations can help manage disappointments.

Engage in Campus Activities: Joining clubs and societies is a great way to meet new people and build a social circle.

Seek Help When Needed: Reaching out to counselors or mental health professionals is important if feeling overwhelmed.

With over 430,000 students from Sub-Saharan Africa studying abroad, including 14,000 from Kenya, these tips can help students adapt and thrive in their new environment.