Moving from Nigeria to study at WBS

Where it all started…

Hi, I’m Bolatito, and this is your friendly guide to surviving university in a country you’ve never lived in before! Okay, maybe not quite a guide, but I’ll be sharing my journey since 2022, and hopefully, something in here resonates with you, too.

I came to the UK from Nigeria just a few days before my 17th birthday to begin the International Foundation Programme (IFP). I still remember landing at Heathrow with nervous excitement, clutching my folder of documents and praying I hadn’t forgotten anything. Despite having the full support of my family back home, nothing could quite prepare me for the independence that lay ahead. Cooking my own meals, doing my laundry, figuring out how buses work, and making friends from completely different cultures… all while trying to meet the academic requirements to get into Warwick Business School - it was overwhelming.

But over time, with lots of learning moments (and burnt rice), I adjusted. The support I received from my IFP tutors and the genuine friendships I formed played a significant role in keeping me grounded. I eventually exceeded the grades needed to progress to WBS. While the academic transition was intense, I managed to protect my mental health, to an extent, by leaning on the people and systems around me. I’m now proud to say I’m co-head of mentoring for IFP students, helping others navigate the same path I once walked.

My experience at WBS

I recall making a “pact” with myself back in the IFP year, not to step into the WBS building until I was officially a student there. A bit dramatic, I know, but the satisfaction of finally walking through those doors for the first time was unmatched.

At first glance, WBS can seem intimidating, especially given its reputation and the independence it holds within the wider university. I came in with the preconception that it would be “all business, all the time.” While that’s partly true, I soon discovered that behind the professionalism is a community of friendly, supportive, and welcoming people.

I won’t lie — in the early weeks, I had moments where I felt like an imposter. It was a mix of emotions: immense pride for making it here, but also a little uncertainty about whether I belonged. Over time, attending every lecture and seminar became a non-negotiable for me. That commitment helped me stay consistent, confident, and fully engaged with my studies.

Having friends from the IFP who also studied management made a huge difference. Familiar faces eased my transition and helped calm the initial anxiety. Along the way, I met incredible people who have made my WBS journey more exciting, people I’ll really miss as they head off on their placement years.

Being part of my cohort has been one of the highlights of my time at WBS. Although I began with a small group I already knew, I quickly connected with new classmates from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and countries. Group projects, seminars, and society events gave us plenty of opportunities to collaborate and share ideas. These connections have not only made my academic experience more engaging but also created lasting friendships that I will forever value.

Societies and coming out of my shell

Starting undergraduate life at Warwick came with its own set of challenges, but I knew I wanted to be more than just a student who went to lectures and returned home. Slowly, I began to explore societies and opportunities that aligned with my interests.

In my first year, I joined the Warwick Nigerian Society and served as the Vice President throughout my second year. Being part of the society helped me reconnect with my roots while meeting other students who reminded me that I wasn’t alone. I also served as an Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Ambassador at WBS, a role that deepened my commitment to fostering inclusive spaces. One of my proudest moments was when I entered and won the university’s recipe competition, using my jollof rice as a way to celebrate and share Nigerian culture.

All of these experiences helped me come out of my shell, grow in confidence, and realise that there’s room for every version of yourself here at Warwick.

Fast forward to today

Now, in my third year, I’m a Student Ambassador with the Warwick Welcome Service, speaking to prospective students during Open Days and online events. It’s surreal that the same scared girl who landed in the UK now helps others feel less scared about their journeys. If I’ve learned anything, it’s that growth doesn’t come from perfection and having it all figured out; it comes from showing up, trying again, and asking for help when you need it.

Whether you're an international student like me or just someone trying to find your place, I hope my story reminds you that you will find your feet, and maybe even thrive.