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The kingdom of life

Khoety Mareka

I am an undergraduate studying for my BA honours in fashion communication and promotion at Nottingham Trent University in the United Kingdom.

My experience with studying abroad hasn’t always been great. It took me some time to adjust. I left home immediately after matriculating, so as you can imagine, I was very young.

It was a new experience, a change from the norm, looking out for myself and living on my own. The transition from high school learner to university student seemed immensely overwhelming and even a bit scary, especially in a foreign country. The shift opened a can of worms and created challenges, both good and bad, behind every corner. Due to the change of scene, I am now dealing with the everyday acceptance of the greater world around me - the town/country, the people and different cultures.

Being a university student in another country has taught me a lot during the time I have been here. I learned how to be accommodating and also learned to share resources. In addition I have also learned many interesting principles about different cultures. Studying away from my native country meant meeting people from various backgrounds.

Living on my own in a big, foreign country as such United Kingdom was a thrilling thought until I actually left and had to be on my own, without my parents. The culture shock is something that I am still dealing with today; that and the weather.

Making good friends was difficult, but it didn’t take me long to find my set group of friends who I can rely on. Being away from home has truly helped in my personal growth and character development.

I am much more mature and aware of my surroundings. I love studying abroad; I’ve learnt so much living in the UK. I’ve learnt about different cultures and backgrounds and I have become more open-minded to different lifestyles. Choosing to study outside of Namibia was one of the best decisions that I have made and I would recommend it to anyone who is blessed with the opportunity to go for it.

To those are still about to enter university life: When you find something that you’re passionate about, aspire to excellence in it. You’re not just going to be a surgeon; you’re going to be such a good surgeon that they’re going to name operations after you. You’re not just a volunteer at the pet shelter, you’re going to be the dogs’ favourite volunteer. Find something that you badly want to do and then use it to become the best possible version of yourself that you can be.

Did you know?

Nottingham Trent University was founded as a new university in 1992 from Trent Polytechnic.



Facts about Khoety

· She loves everything about the fashion industry.

· She is creative.

· She is attentive.

· Her star sign is a Cancer, as she was born on 22 June.

She is hardworking and determined