A big change
Being an international student from Nigeria, coming to Durham University was a big change. I had always been quite dependent on my parents so coming here, miles away from home to live independently was quite daunting. I was very nervous as I wondered how I would cope with being so far away from my family and friends.
A great welcome
These nerves swiftly went away from the moment I stepped on John Snow College grounds. I was welcomed by excited Freps (students who help you settle in during freshers week) who created a warm atmosphere and helped me move into my room. At that point, I felt like this could be my new home.
Rightly so, Durham has been my new home, and a significant part of that journey is being a part of John Snow College. During my Freshers week, I engaged in lots of activities including late night chats with my flatmates, karaoke nights and my first formal which I thoroughly enjoyed as I got to dress up which is something I enjoy doing. From these vast experiences, I met people from diverse backgrounds and was assured that my identity is valued in the Durham community. This experience foreshadowed the fact that I will thoroughly enjoy my time at Durham University.
College support
My great experience did not end at Fresher’s week as throughout the year John Snow College became my family. The staff was so supportive and they carried out lots of initiatives to show that they care about our well-being. They usually had “Welfare Wednesdays” where they would bring us treats such as nachos, pancakes, waffles, brownies and lots of other things.
When things became a bit tough during the academic year such as formative or summative seasons, they created a “de-stress week” filled with lots of activities to take our minds off academic work. I got to engage in lots of calming activities, received care packages and even pet some animals when they brought a Petting Zoo!
During our exams, they provided us with free breakfast, ensuring that we were properly fuelled to write our exams to the best of our abilities. This showed that they did not only care about our emotional and mental well-being, but they also valued our physical health ensuring that we ate healthy meals. They regularly gave us vegetable boxes and provided us with easy recipes that we could use given that it is a self-catered college. This made life so much easier for me as I had an easy recipe on-hand, with the provided ingredients!
Being in John Snow also helped me foster my interests as I began playing football again after taking some time off. Thus, knowing that I could undoubtedly be myself and engage with my interests is an important part of my student journey. Through participating in my college, I have also made great friends who are like family, and we have made memories that I will hold dear to me for a lifetime!
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