For international students, moving to a new country for education can mean adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings, cultures and languages. At Mount Kigali University, some international students find a welcoming environment that makes the transition easier. 

For Abraham Chol, studying at Mount Kigali University has been more than earning a degree it has been an experience of finding a sense of home in a foreign land. 

Abraham Chol, a student in the School of Business and Economics, chose Mount Kigali University because of what he describes as its excellent academic work. When he first arrived, his reaction was one of immediate admiration.“Wow, what a beautiful, peaceful and quiet place.” 

While Rwanda’s environment left a positive first impression, adjusting to life in a new country was not without its challenges. For Abraham, the biggest difficulty has been the language barrier, which made communication one of the main things he had to adjust to. 

Despite this, his experience with fellow students has helped him feel comfortable on campus. Abraham says Rwandan students have treated him with kindness and respect, making him feel welcomed rather than like an outsider. 

For Abraham, one of the things he enjoys most about being an international student at MKU is the feeling of home he experiences while living in a foreign country. The relationships and environment around him have helped make his university experience more comfortable and meaningful. 

His time in Rwanda has also taught him lessons that extend beyond the classroom. Abraham says living in the country has taught him about humbleness, simplicity and consistency in everything he does.“Living in Rwanda has taught me about humbleness, being simple and consistency in everything that I’m doing.” 

As he continues his studies at MKU, Abraham’s experience reflects how studying abroad can provide more than academic knowledge. It can also expose students to new cultures, relationships and lessons that shape their personal growth. 

For other international students considering MKU, Abraham has a simple message: 

“Every international student who wants to join MKU should come and join MKU because this is where you receive quality education and experience beautiful things.” 

For Abraham, Mount Kigali University has become more than a place to study. In a foreign land, he has found an environment where kindness, respect and a sense of belonging have helped make Rwanda feel a little more like home. 

By Tumalo Noel