My Life Beyond Academics: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

As an African student far from home, my academic journey is more than just textbooks and lecture halls; it’s an exploration of life beyond the realms of studies, and all this on a budget. Join me as I unpack the tapestry of experiences, challenges, and triumphs that define my life outside academics, offering a personal perspective on thriving in a foreign land without breaking the bank.

In the heartbeat of the city I now call home, figuring out how to live differently on a tight budget has been a big part of the adventure. I’ve learned to turn ordinary places into my own fun spots. Parks and local events have become my go-to places, where I can enjoy without spending a lot. Museums that offer student discounts are like my classrooms, teaching me cool stuff about history and culture.

Food has been a big win for me too. Exploring local markets and cooking up creative meals with my friends has been a blast. Our shared corridor kitchen is like a melting pot of different food traditions, making every meal an exciting mix of flavours. I’ve had the opportunity to taste more than at least thirty different dishes from around the globe. The beauty of sharing a space with wonderful people from all corners of the world!

Getting around the city has been an adventure on its own. Buses have become my daily rides, taking me to unexpected places, getting lost, jumping onto the wrong bus, all part of the adventure. Biking is not just a way to get around; it’s like my magic carpet, helping me feel more connected to the city, and still, on a budget! Riding around the city mostly in search of stores offering student discounts-believe me, in Sweden, there’s a ton of these stores. Sweden loves students, let’s put it like that. Exploring nearby cities, like Norrköping, where our other campus is located, on a small budget is super fun. And did I mention the campus bus is free to all students! This has given me some of the best memories.

Making friends and socializing has been a must for me. We’ve come up with cool ways to hang out without spending too much. Potluck dinners, game nights, and just hanging out have become the glue that keeps my friendships strong. Not to mention, our epic movie nights in our humble corridor rooms, alternating from one friend’s room to another’s-a story for another day! It’s not about money; it’s about making meaningful connections that can potentially last a lifetime.

Handling money wisely has become super important. Learning to budget, save a bit, and make smart choices has been like a crash course in real-life stuff. If there’s a chance to work part-time, it’s not just about money – it’s a way to learn new things and grow. My life outside of classes as an African student on a budget is like a puzzle of challenges and cool experiences. Always thinking of fun activities for every weekend, and then the process repeats the next Friday, and the next. It’s about turning limits into creativity and finding the good stuff that doesn’t cost much. From exploring local spots to sharing meals with friends, my budget is like a guide helping me make the most of my time here. In this journey, it’s not just about managing money; it’s about discovering the awesome things hidden in the heart of my new home, things outside my academics!

Yours, Chelsea.

• Student life