“A rollercoaster of emotions’

Algene Kabunga
My name is Algene Kabunga, and I am a third-year media student at the University of Namibia (Unam). One way to describe my university experience is as "a rollercoaster of emotions."

No one can ever really prepare you for university and all the challenges you will encounter. Some days are easy, while others are difficult; some days you feel like you don’t belong, while others you do. If there is anything I have picked up thus far, it is that it takes resilience, hard work and commitment to make it work, in addition to a support system and an effective study method. Find what works for you and stick to it.

During my time as a student at Unam, I have been able to develop immensely.

This degree has really made it possible for me to look at things differently compared to how I did before. I have become a better person, and my intellectual capabilities been honed.

A rough start

I did not enjoy my first year.

I found it quite boring, as most of our classes were offered online due to the pandemic. Adjusting was very difficult; figuring out a balance between life and study was even harder.

Online studies came with so much academic anxiety and uncertainty because one had to be on devices at all times or miss out on updates.

That was a mess, especially as the internet connection was not always reliable.

During my second year, I have had quite an interesting journey. My biggest highlight was learning how to be more independent. My social skills were enhanced, and I have learned how to articulate myself properly. This has made my life much easier and more flexible.

University life is a bittersweet experience, one that I would definitely recommend pursuing. The tassel is worth the hassle. At the end of the day, nothing compares to that feeling of knowing you are heading towards achieving your goals every day. There are many individuals who would want to go to university but are not able to do so due to unfortunate circumstances; therefore, this is an opportunity I will never take for granted.